I just finished reading a great new book that distills some emerging science regarding child development and turns some “conventional wisdom” on its head. In particular I loved the chapter on a new preschool/kindergarten program called “Tools of the Mind” which teaches kids all the usual stuff plus self-control/self-direction and decision making, which turns out to be very important to later academic success – at least as much as raw native intellect. And it can be learned in a preschool or kindy classroom by kids from all kinds of backgrounds, ability levels, and special needs. It is worth reading for anyone looking for good behavior management techniques. The basic techniques can easily be incorporated into any classroom or home environment.
Get thee a copy of: Nurture Shock: New Thinking About Children by Po Bronson & Ashley Merryman. Your library should have a copy. About 1/3 of the book is end notes, so it is a shorter read than it appears to be at first glance and I’m telling you, you’ll have a hard time putting it down. You might even learn a thing or two about yourself.
Happy summer reading! Sincerely, Heather
OTHER REVIEWS
Caroline Bookbinder
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