THE ART OF TEACHING CHILDREN
All I Learned From a Lifetime in the Classroom
by Phillip Done
An award-winning teacher shares tips and stories from his 33 years in the classroom.
After three decades teaching elementary school, Done has amassed hundreds of interesting stories about his students, and he demonstrates a strong grasp of what works (and doesn’t) in the classroom. His goal for readers, especially new teachers, is “to encourage, enlighten, and empower—to offer advice, guidance, and maybe even a little wisdom from the perspective of an experienced teacher.” The author shares amusing snippets of his interactions with students that show his deep compassion and consideration for each child. The only drawback is there are so many children that readers won’t feel deeply connected to any child in particular—unlike Done, who obviously remembers each individual he taught with great affection. Interspersed with his recollections, the author offers practical tips on the art of teaching. These include getting to know your students by asking about their pets; how to handle recess, lunch duty, and show-and-tell presentations; and the importance of greeting children each day at the door. Done explains how to make a classroom warm and welcoming through furniture choices, lighting, and indoor plants, and he evenhandedly discusses the complex mechanics of working with parents. He also shares ample advice on lesson plans on a variety of subjects, including reading, writing, math, art, singing, and geography. Given the author’s highly successful career, it’s clear that his methods are proven to work. For teachers seeking inspiration, Done provides numerous stimulating concepts that can be incorporated into any lesson plan; for prospective or aspiring teachers, the author has plenty of insights into the ups and downs of teaching young children. All readers will have no doubt that Done chose the right profession. “If you are a teacher, or learning to become one,” he writes, “my wish is that you also will have a rich and rewarding career.”
A well-rounded, satisfying look at the daily life of a teacher.