Hey there, and happy summer!
I stayed up way too late last night, all because I was invested in finishing the book Listen for the Lie. A story based on solving a murder with a true crime podcast in the mix? Perfection.
Along with a murder mystery that keeps me on the edge of my seat, I also love to peruse "teacher books:" curriculum, student behavior, classroom management... you name it!
Whether because I feel like I'm in a rut, or I'm just intrigued about current best practices, going to the experts to learn something new helps me to be the most effective teacher I can be for my students.
I thought I'd share with you my top reads that stretch across the curriculum.
Up today... Child Development & Social Emotional Learning!
CHILD DEVELOPMENT AND SEL: MY TOP 2 READS
As educators, we often find ourselves right at the intersection of pedagogy and developmental psychology. It's here that we're seeking to tailor our teaching methods to meet the unique needs of our students.
Yardsticks is an invaluable resource that brings both of these focuses into perfect harmony!
This book is as a comprehensive guide to understanding the developmental milestones and behaviors typical of children from preschool through early adolescence.
Why Yardsticks is Essential for Teachers
It is a tool that empowers teachers to create developmentally appropriate learning environments! Here are a few reasons why it should be a staple in every educator's library:
1. Developmental Benchmarks:
The book provides clear and concise descriptions of what children typically can do, feel, and understand at each age. This includes physical, social, emotional, and cognitive development.
2. Behavioral Insights:
Yardsticks offers insights into common behaviors and challenges at each age level. This understanding can help teachers respond empathetically and effectively to their students' needs. Example: knowing that a seven-year-old might typically struggle with sharing helps in creating strategies that encourage cooperative play.
3. Practical Strategies:
The book is packed with practical advice on classroom management, ways to support students' growth, and instructional strategies that can be implemented immediately.
4. Holistic Approach:
The whole child is the main focus. Yardsticks encourages teachers to think beyond academics, and incorporate social and emotional learning into their daily practices.
2. The Whole-Brain Child: 12 Revolutionary Strategies to Nurture Your Child's Developing Mind by Daniel J. Siegel, MD and Tina Payne Bryson, PhD.
This read is a MUST for teachers who are looking for ways to boost their classroom learning environment (we could all use tips here and there!).
The Whole-Brain Child offers insights that address immediate classroom challenges, and contribute to the long-term emotional and intellectual growth of students. Transform your classroom management and support your students' development!
Why The Whole Brain Child is Essential for Teachers
It is a tool that empowers teachers to create developmentally appropriate learning environments! Here are a few reasons why it should be a staple in every educator's library:
1. Understanding the Developing Brain: The clear explanation of how a child's brain is wired and matures takes center stage! Ever wonder about the "upstairs brain" and "downstairs brain?"
Here's a fact for you! The upstairs brain controls executive functioning skills - planning, prioritizing, and focusing. Oh, and it's also in charge of emotional regulation and making rational decisions. AND, this part of the brain is still developing well into a person's twenties. This helps explain A LOT. Getting a glimpse into this scientific perspective is really helpful to understand the "why" behind behaviors like tantrums, fights, or even quiet sulking.
2. Practical, Age-Appropriate Strategies: Twelve key strategies can be applied to everyday classroom situations! They help address behavioral issues not just as disruptions but as chances to foster essential emotional and intellectual development. Navigating a student's emotional "meltdown" with techniques that not only calm the situation but also promote long-term resilience and self-regulation...? Yes please!
3. Fostering Balanced and Connected Lives: Being a kid is complicated. By incorporating the book's strategies, you can look at cultivating a supportive environment through a new lens. Critical thinking skills, emotional intelligence, and strong interpersonal connections are not just academic benefits, but life skills that will serve students well beyond the classroom.
4. Enhancing Teacher-Student Relationships: We've heard it a million times (because it's true!). Strong teacher-student relationships are essential for effective teaching. The Whole-Brain Child equips teachers with the tools to build and maintain these vital connections. Understanding the underlying science of brain development definitely helps when it comes to approaching students with more empathy and patience.
I hope these recommendations inspire you to find new ways to connect with your students, manage classroom dynamics, and support each child's unique developmental journey.
Here's to a future filled with inspired teaching and empowered learners!
Happy reading,
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