Children learn best when they feel safe, loved, and curious. For retired early childhood educator Lori J. Thompson, better known as Lori J., building that confidence has been her life’s mission.
For decades, Lori J. ran a preschool, and now she pours her heart into storytelling. Through her charming Squeak series, Lori J. creates stories that make toddlers giggle, think, and explore.
“Funny that we don’t get a handbook or an instruction book when we leave the hospital with our newborn baby… lol. Parenting is a very personal thing,” Lori J. says. “I am not the one to tell you how to, but to offer helpful hints to make the home more comfortable and fun.”
Her books are powerful tools for parents and caregivers who want to nurture confident little learners.
A Life Dedicated to Young Minds
Lori J.’s passion for teaching began long before she became a published author. She spent over 30 years in early childhood education and ran a large preschool for 14 years. Her love for toddlers stood out. She often calls them “little people” because she sees them as intelligent, capable, and deeply observant.
She worked with families, guided young parents, and helped children take their first steps into the world of learning.That experience now informs every page she writes.
Some highlights of her journey:
- Opened and managed a thriving preschool in Rotorua, New Zealand.
- Studied early childhood education later in life, earning her qualification at age 50.
- Worked closely with families, offering practical parenting tips.
- Survived and thrived through personal challenges, including battling cancer.
- Returned to Canada with a renewed mission to share her wisdom through stories.
Her books, which feature a mischievous squirrel named Squeak, are inspired by real-life experiences. She grew up watching squirrels in the yard, and went on to share similar experiences with her grandchildren. These relatable, heartwarming moments are embedded in every tale.
Squeak the Squirrel: Stories That Spark Connection
Lori J.’s books provide a connection with children. Through Squeak, the Little Grey Squirrel and its follow-up, Squeak Meets New Friends, children explore curiosity, problem-solving, and empathy.
Main features of the series:
- Relatable Characters: Squeak’s playful antics mirror a toddler’s natural curiosity.
- Family-Centered Storytelling: The books feature Great Gramma and visiting grandchildren, reinforcing intergenerational bonds.
- Adventure with Purpose: Each story encourages problem-solving and compassion.
- Interactive Options: Squeak’s Coloring Book lets kids bring the stories to life with their own creativity.
- Real-Life Inspiration: The characters and settings are based on Lori J.’s own family and home in British Columbia.
By turning real experiences into stories, Lori J. helps children feel seen. Toddlers love spotting animals, laughing at Squeak’s mischief, and imagining their own adventures. Parents and grandparents appreciate the lessons woven into every book.
Empowering Parents and Caregivers
Lori J. knows parenting isn’t simple. She’s been there herself, raising five children while juggling work and life. Her experience as an educator gives her a balanced perspective: every family is different, but all parents deserve support.
This is why she offers practical advice for parents without judgment by writing stories that create calm, fun, and meaningful moments at home. She also has a coloring book to extend learning beyond the page.
She wants to give families confidence and joy. “I have a passion to see young parents and caregivers have good success with navigating through parenting young children,” she says.
Lori J.’s work also gives parents opportunities to slow down. Storytime becomes a moment to connect, talk, and laugh with children.
Conclusion
Lori J. is working on a third book and plans to create an audio series for families who love listening to stories together. She aims to initiate meaningful conversations about early childhood education, inspiring parents to recognize themselves as their child’s first teacher.
She loves kids deeply. To her, every book is an opportunity to nurture confidence and curiosity in the next generation.
Lori J. Thompson’s work is a gift to families. Her stories, filled with warmth and humor, are built on years of hands-on experience. Through Squeak and his adventures, she shows toddlers that the world is exciting and safe to explore. For parents and caregivers, her books serve as both entertainment and tools for building trust and connection.
