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TALKING WITH A CHILD by James D. White

TALKING WITH A CHILD

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Pub Date: Nov. 4th, 1976
Publisher: Macmillan

From a former speech/hearing therapist and language arts consultant, a guide to language development that restates much that Ginott, Gordon, and others have already suggested in slightly different contexts. White recognizes the importance of an adult's attitude and discusses ""active listening,"" nonaccusatory questions, the limits of ""don't"" directives, honest expressions of opinion, the value of a sense of humor. He considers these techniques desirable in promoting language proficiency, influencing fluency in speech and, later, in reading as well. His observations on the advantages of repetitious songs, informal games, and early money experiences are familiar, even commonplace. Ironically, cliches abound and his own thoughts are often imprecisely expressed: ""In teaching reading and writing, I have met entirely too few imaginative children."" Skip this one--better books are on the shelf.