Chelsea Chong Kim, a mastery teacher turned author, on a mission to fill the world with laughter and life lessons! She has inspired many students with over a decade of experience shaping young minds in prestigious private and public schools. Also a math enthusiast, Chelsea weaves problem-solving into her stories, making learning an adventure. As an author, Chelsea’s goal is simple: to touch kids’ hearts, inspiring friendship, teamwork, perseverance, inclusion, and embracing differences. When she’s not writing, Chelsea explores the world, bowls, swims, captures memories in her camera, sampling diverse cuisines and reading books in her favorite coffee shops.
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What inspired you to create a story about diversity and individuality using fruits and vegetables? Was there a particular moment or student that sparked the idea?
Chelsea Chong Kim: I was inspired to create “Carol the Carrot Bowls for the Salad Bowl” by the diverse and vibrant experiences I had while teaching. Each of my students brought their own unique beauty to the classroom—not just in appearance, but in their culture, learning styles, and ways of expressing themselves. This rich diversity reminded me of fruits and vegetables, each with their own distinct flavors, shapes, and personalities, coming together to create a vibrant mixed salad bowl.
I wanted to write a story that celebrated these differences, where every child feels included. I compare life to a game of bowling, where each strike, spare, and miss is part of the journey, and everyone has the ability to aim for their goals—just keep on bowling! My characters reflect different aspects of my own journey: Carol the Carrot embodies her determination and drive to do things right, Mandy the Mandarin represents moments of self-doubt, and Coach Cucumber, with his years of teaching experience, stands as a symbol of my role as a teacher, always encouraging my students to pursue their dreams.
Through this story, I hope to leave a lasting legacy, showing children that, like fruits and veggies, each of us adds a distinct flavor to the world, contributing to a richer, more inclusive salad bowl.
How do you integrate the themes of your book, ‘Carol the Carrot Bowls for the Salad Bowl,’ into your teaching practices? Have you noticed a change in your students’ perspectives after being exposed to these ideas?
Chelsea Chong Kim: The themes of teamwork, diversity, inclusion, perseverance, and embracing differences in “Carol the Carrot Bowls for the Salad Bowl” are deeply intertwined with my teaching practices. In the classroom, I always encourage group work, believing that collaboration not only builds essential skills but also allows students to enhance their individual strengths for the benefit of the team.
For me, diversity goes beyond appearances—it’s about the different learning abilities, ways of thinking, leadership styles, unique talents, and environments that each student brings. I cherish how these differences create a rich, dynamic learning experience. One of my favorite memories comes from a time in the classroom. I had each group of students create their own chant to cheer on their classmates with a rousing “YOU CAN DO IT!” whenever someone went up to the board. This simple tradition cultivated an environment where students felt safe to make mistakes, knowing they were supported and valued no matter the outcome.
By fostering a classroom where inclusion, teamwork, and the celebration of achievements are central, I’ve seen these principles naturally take root in my students. They understand that when they step into my classroom—or when they read my book—they are entering a space where they are supported, valued, and included just as they are. It’s heartwarming to witness how these themes positively shape their perspectives, helping them embrace their unique strengths and work together with a sense of ease and belonging. This is not just true of a classroom but of any environment with children. Even at home, it is important to promote these values.
Your book uses a salad bowl as a metaphor for diversity and inclusion. What do you hope children will take away from this imagery, and how do you think it can impact their understanding of the world?
Chelsea Chong Kim: The salad bowl in my book is a warm and inviting metaphor for the beauty of diversity and inclusion. Just as a salad comes to life with a mix of different ingredients—each with its own unique flavor, color, and texture—our world is enriched by the diverse people who make it up. I hope that when children read about the salad bowl, they’ll see how wonderful it is that everyone is different, and how those differences make life more colorful and exciting.
I want children to feel that, just like each ingredient in a salad adds something special, they too bring something unique and valuable to the world. Whether it’s their talents, their way of thinking, or their background, each child has something important to contribute. I hope this helps them understand that their differences, and the differences of others, aren’t something to hide or be afraid of, but something to celebrate.
My wish is that this imagery will encourage children to be kind, to include others, and to appreciate the beautiful mix of people around them. By seeing themselves as part of a big, diverse salad bowl, they can learn to embrace who they are and feel a sense of belonging, knowing that every ingredient plays a crucial role in making the salad whole and delicious. I believe this understanding will help them grow up to be compassionate and open-hearted, making the world a little brighter and more connected, one unique ingredient at a time.
Everyone has a special role in a salad bowl!
In a world that sometimes encourages conformity, how do you emphasize the importance of celebrating individuality in the classroom and through your book?
Chelsea Chong Kim: In a world that often pushes for conformity, I make it a priority to celebrate individuality in my classroom, my book, and throughout my daily life. In the classroom, I create a space where each child feels valued for who they are, not just for fitting in. I encourage my students to express themselves freely, whether through their ideas, their creativity, or the way they approach learning. We talk about how our differences make us stronger as a group, and I make sure to highlight each student’s unique strengths and talents.
For example, when students work on group projects, I focus on how each person’s unique contribution is essential to the team’s success. I also have moments where we celebrate individual achievements, no matter how small, so that every student feels recognized and appreciated for what they bring to the table.
Through my book, I extend this celebration of individuality by using characters like Carol the Carrot to show that it’s okay to be different. Each character in the book has their own quirks and strengths, and together they create a vibrant, colorful world. It was important for me to spread this message not only in my classroom but to children all over the world! I hope that by reading about these characters, children everywhere will see that being themselves is something to be proud of, and that their individuality is what makes them special.
I want children to understand that they don’t have to conform to be accepted; instead, they can embrace who they are and contribute to the world in their own unique way. By celebrating individuality, both in my classroom and through my stories, I hope to inspire children to be confident in who they are and to see the beauty in the differences that make each of us unique.
As someone with a deep passion for education, how has your personal journey shaped your views on diversity and inclusion? How have these views evolved over your years of teaching?
Chelsea Chong Kim: My personal journey as a Korean-American and my deep passion for education have profoundly shaped my views on diversity and inclusion. Growing up in a school where I was one of the few students from a different cultural background, I learned early on the importance of embracing differences. Although I faced teasing for my name and background, I chose to engage with those around me, learning about their cultures and building friendships. This experience helped me grow into a leader, eventually becoming class president and creating a Korean Club in high school that welcomed everyone to celebrate culture and food together.
As I transitioned into teaching, my commitment to diversity and inclusion deepened. Teaching everything from elementary through middle school mathematics, I wanted to ensure that every student felt heard and valued. My students taught me as much as I taught them, helping me to grow as a teacher. They showed me the beauty of different cultural backgrounds and learning abilities, reinforcing the importance of creating an inclusive classroom where everyone feels they belong.
Over the years, my understanding of diversity and inclusion has evolved from simply recognizing differences to celebrating them. I’ve realized that true inclusion means actively creating a classroom culture where every student’s unique contributions are valued. This belief inspired me to write “Carol the Carrot Bowls for the Salad Bowl,” extending the message of inclusivity beyond the classroom and helping children everywhere celebrate their individuality.
My journey as an educator has shown me that our differences are what make our communities vibrant and strong. I’m committed to fostering environments—both in the classroom and through my stories—where every child knows they belong and where their unique voices are celebrated.
Can you share a story about how your book or your teaching approach has positively impacted a student? What was their reaction, and how did it resonate with them?
Chelsea Chong Kim: Two experiences have profoundly touched my heart and shaped my approach to teaching and writing. The first was during my time as a student intern. There was a student who had been asked to leave the classroom for being disruptive, and I followed her outside to check on her. As we talked, she looked at me and said, “Ms. Kim, no one has ever really listened to me or cared how I was doing. Everyone just thinks I’m the trouble kid, even at home. But you, Ms. Kim, you’re going to be an amazing teacher and shape the world for younger generations.” Her words struck me deeply, filling me with a sense of urgency to become the kind of teacher who truly listens and makes every student feel valued. That moment made me more determined than ever to step into the classroom and be a positive force in the lives of my students.
The second experience occurred during an author visit where I introduced my book, “Carol the Carrot Bowls for the Salad Bowl.” A shy student, who often felt out of place, connected with Carol’s journey of finding her place despite being different. The story resonated with her, and she later told me that it helped her realize it was okay to be different and that her voice mattered. This newfound confidence led her to participate more actively and even take on a leadership role in her class.
These moments reinforced my belief in the power of inclusive teaching and storytelling. They remind me why I’m so passionate about my work—whether in the classroom or through my writing, my goal is always to ensure every child feels appreciated, heard, and empowered to embrace their individuality. The children are our future, and it is our responsibility to ensure they know how much they matter.
Do you have any plans for future books or educational programming that continue to explore themes of diversity and individuality? What message do you want to share next?
Chelsea Chong Kim: Yes, I’m excited to share that I’m currently working on the second series of Carol the Carrot, and I’m pouring my heart into it just as I did for my first one. As I develop the manuscript, I’m constantly reminding myself that it needs to resonate not just with kids, but with the person reading the book as well. The story will touch on moments that everyone can relate to—moments that we all go through at some point in our lives. While I can’t reveal everything just yet, I can promise that it will tackle relatable topics and events that are deeply relevant, offering insights on how we can overcome challenges together.
This upcoming book will be one you won’t want to miss, and I believe it will be worth the wait! I’m committed to continuing the themes of diversity and individuality, but with even more depth and nuance. My goal is to create a story that speaks to both children and adults, reminding them that our differences are what make us strong, and that we can navigate life’s challenges with resilience and hope.
I’m also looking forward to creating partnerships with educational institutions and non-profit organizations that are doing the important work of promoting diversity and inclusion.
What advice would you give to fellow educators who want to incorporate more lessons on diversity and individuality into their curriculum? How can they create a more inclusive environment for their students?
Chelsea Chong Kim: One piece of advice I’d give to fellow educators looking to incorporate more lessons on diversity and individuality into their curriculum is to create opportunities for students to share their cultural backgrounds and personal interests. For instance, you could have students give presentations about where they’re from, sharing their heritage, traditions, and even family recipes or customs with the class. This not only allows students to take pride in their backgrounds but also helps their peers develop a deeper understanding and appreciation of different cultures.
Another approach is to incorporate activities that reflect what students enjoy outside of school. For example, you could have students create projects based on their hobbies, like a “Day in My Life” presentation where they talk about their favorite activities—whether it’s playing sports like bowling, reading books, or going on hikes with their families. You could also encourage them to bring in items that are special to them, like a book they love or a piece of sports equipment, and explain why it’s meaningful.
For group projects, assign roles that align with each student’s strengths, such as having one student lead the research, another handle the creative aspects like drawing or designing, and another take charge of the presentation. This not only helps students build confidence in their abilities but also teaches them the value of teamwork and recognizing each other’s unique contributions.
Parents loved these projects because students began to bring what they learned at school into their homes, leading to more engaged conversations with their families. Students started teaching their parents about different cultures and the value of diversity, creating a ripple effect that extended beyond the classroom. These projects also helped students develop a deeper respect for their classmates, as they began to understand and appreciate where everyone comes from.
By incorporating these activities, you can create a more inclusive environment where every student feels valued and important. These experiences teach kids to value each other and understand the richness that diversity brings to their lives. If you’d like to learn more about my curriculum and how to implement these ideas, visit my website at chelseastorynook.com and check on my social media accounts @chelseastory_nook for more updates. These practices foster a classroom culture where diversity is celebrated, and students feel empowered to be themselves, both in school and at home.
How do you involve parents and the broader community in the message of your book? What role do you think they play in reinforcing these values outside of the classroom?
Chelsea Chong Kim: Involving parents and the broader community in the message of my book is something I consider essential. I believe that the lessons of diversity, individuality, and inclusion are most powerful when they extend beyond the classroom and into the home and community. To achieve this, I encourage parents to engage with the themes of my book by reading it with their children and discussing the stories and characters together. I often suggest that parents ask their children about the characters they relate to and why, fostering conversations about embracing differences and celebrating unique qualities.
I also host community events, such as book readings and workshops, where parents and children can come together to explore these themes in a fun and interactive way. These events provide a space for families to connect over shared values and reinforce the importance of diversity and inclusion in everyday life.
Parents play a crucial role in reinforcing these values outside of the classroom. When children see their parents actively engaging with and supporting the messages in the book, it validates the importance of these lessons. It encourages children to carry the principles of acceptance and respect into their interactions at home, with friends, and within the broader community. Moreover, when parents model inclusive behavior and celebrate diversity in their own lives, it sets a powerful example for their children to follow.
By involving parents and the community, we create a supportive environment where the values of diversity and inclusion are consistently reinforced, helping to shape a generation that is empathetic, understanding, and respectful of others.
How do you see the themes of wellness and inclusivity intersecting in education? In what ways do you believe fostering a sense of belonging and self-worth contributes to the overall well-being of children?
Chelsea Chong Kim: The themes of wellness and inclusivity are deeply intertwined in education, and I believe that fostering a sense of belonging and self-worth is essential for a child’s overall well-being. When children feel included and valued, they develop a strong sense of self-worth, which is crucial for their emotional and mental health. It’s like planting a seed in rich soil—when children know they belong, they can grow, thrive, and reach their full potential.
In my book, “Carol the Carrot Bowls for the Salad Bowl,” I use the symbolism of bowling as a metaphor for life. Bowling is more than just a game; it’s a reflection of our journey through life. We all have moments of striking success and moments where we miss the mark. What’s important is that we have our team—whether it’s family, friends, or our inner self—cheering us on, telling us, “You can do it!” This symbolism teaches children that life is about more than just the highs and lows; it’s about the support we give and receive and the resilience to keep going, even when things don’t go as planned.
In the classroom, creating an inclusive environment where every child feels seen and heard is crucial. When children are embraced for their unique qualities and encouraged to express themselves, they feel more confident and secure. This sense of belonging reduces anxiety and helps them feel more connected to their peers and teachers, which in turn nurtures their overall well-being.
I’ve seen firsthand how powerful it can be when a child realizes they are valued just as they are. It’s in those moments when a student’s face lights up because they know their voice matters or when they take pride in their individuality. These moments contribute not just to their academic success but to their happiness and emotional resilience as well.
Fostering inclusivity is about more than just ensuring that every child is part of the group—it’s about celebrating their differences and making sure they know that those differences make them special. When children understand that life is like a game of bowling—full of strikes and misses, but always with the support of those around them—they carry that confidence into all areas of their lives, leading to a healthier, more positive outlook.
In essence, wellness in education is about creating spaces where every child feels loved, respected, and important. By intertwining wellness and inclusivity, and using symbols like bowling to reinforce these values, we help children build a strong foundation of self-worth that will support their growth and happiness throughout their lives.
Brooke Young, VIP Contributor to WellnessVoice and the host of this interview would like to thank Chelsea Chong Kim
for taking the time to do this interview and share her knowledge and experience with our readers.
If you would like to get in touch with Chelsea Chong Kim or her company, you can do it through her –Instagram
