Welcome to the Words and Wonder Lab
A place of exploration, play, and discovery through stories.
The Words and Wonder Lab is where imagination takes the lead. Whether you’re a parent, teacher, or young writer, this is your go-to space for joyful learning and creative expression. Each project in the Lab is designed to spark curiosity, build confidence, and celebrate bilingual storytelling.
Explore below to learn more about what’s brewing in the Lab!
Once Upon a Cuento: The Blog
Bilingual stories, storytelling tips, and behind-the-scenes reflections.
Once Upon a Cuento is a blog for dreamers, storytellers, and anyone who believes in the power of words. Here, you’ll find writing prompts, personal essays, classroom ideas, and kidlit inspiration—all with a bilingual twist. Whether you’re a teacher looking for creative resources or a reader curious about the writing journey, there’s something for you here.
Bilingual Book Buddies Podcast
Where stories speak two languages—and so do we.
Hosted by Alicia Salazar, Silvia Lopez, and Claudia Sloan, Bilingual Book Buddies invites you into candid conversations with the creators of today’s most exciting bilingual books. Each episode includes author interviews, behind-the-scenes insights, and practical tips for families and educators. Available wherever you listen to podcasts.
Cuentitos: A Dual Language Story Starter App
Big imagination in a little app.
Cuentitos helps kids ages 5–9 build creative stories with just a few taps. Choose a character, setting, and problem—then let the app generate a story starter in English or Spanish. With over 8,000 possible combinations, kids can mix, match, and invent endless cuentos of their own. Designed for classrooms and homes, online or offline.
📂 The Sidekick Files: Writing Prompts with Heart
Bilingual story-building tools that align with core values.
The Sidekick Files is a monthly collection of dual-language writing prompts designed to nurture creativity and character. Each packet features original story starters, themed vocabulary, printable worksheets, and a “core value” focus like kindness, perseverance, or leadership. Available in English and Spanish, these resources support SEL and literacy—at home or in the classroom.