Kent School is delighted to welcome author, educator, and child development expert Deborah Farmer Kris for a special day of readings and workshops on Wednesday, November 5, 2025. Farmer Kris will share her newest book, Raising Awe Seekers: How the Science of Wonder Helps Our Kids Thrive, and engage students across all divisions of the school—Preschool, Lower School, and Middle School.
Farmer Kris is a nationally recognized writer, parenting columnist, and speaker whose work has appeared in PBS KIDS for Parents, MindShift, and The Washington Post. Most recently she appeared on CBS This Morning. She is known for her ability to translate the science of child development into practical, compassionate guidance for parents and educators. Her latest book, Raising Awe Seekers: How the Science of Wonder Helps Our Kids Thrive, explores how nurturing curiosity, wonder, and empathy can help children flourish in an ever-changing world.
During her visit, Farmer Kris will:
Preschool – Lead interactive storytime sessions with her I See You board book series designed to spark imagination and joy.
Lower School – Host readings and hands-on activities that connect her book’s themes to students’ everyday experiences.
Middle School – Conduct workshop on cultivating curiosity, resilience, and empathy during the critical adolescent years.
“Deborah Farmer Kris’s message about the power of awe and curiosity aligns beautifully with Kent School’s Chesapeake Bay Studies Science curriculum, our riverside location and commitment to developing critical thinking skills,” said Nancy Mugele, Head of Kent School. “We are thrilled to provide our students with this unique opportunity to learn from such an inspiring author and educator.”
Deborah Farmer Kris’s visit is made possible through Kent School’s Kudner Leyon Memorial Endowment. This Endowment is named for two Kent School graduates, Ariana Kudner and Amanda Leyon who shared a love of books, writing and reading. Amanda’s and Ariana's lives were cut short in a tragic car accident. The Kudner Leyon Memorial Endowment was created in their honor and memory.
For more information about Kent School and upcoming community events, please visit www.kentschool.org. Kent School prepares students for active citizenship through joyful and rigorous academics, arts and athletics in an inclusive community that fosters moral excellence.
