My Favorite Education Books

Today's post is about my two favorite books on education. It's on my mind lately and I'm reading a lot about what makes a great school, a great student etc etc. I thought I'd share my two favorite books (thus far) on the subject. If you have any you think I should read -- please let me know!!

First up: "How Children Fail" by John Holt
Goodreads Synopsis:
First published in the mid 1960s, How Children Fail began an education reform movement that continues today. In his 1982 edition, John Holt added new insights into how children investigate the world, into the perennial problems of classroom learning, grading, testing, and into the role of the trust and authority in every learning situation. His understanding of children, the clarity of his thought, and his deep affection for children have made both How Children Fail and its companion volume, How Children Learn, enduring classics
My review:

Very interesting read. It was written mostly from the 60's and 70's and things have changed some in our schools, but not much. That was what was so surprising for me. I didn't realize when I ordered the book that it was written from his notes in the late 50's and early 60's. He did update it some in 1982 with additional notes, (which was really great). I read it anyway, thinking I might get SOMETHING out of his research. Unfortunately, our schools haven't changed that much and most of what he discussed in this book is STILL HAPPENING TODAY. ARGH!!!

The best part is that he brings up how our schools are making fine "parrots" of our children -- they can repeat what they've heard at school but don't necessarily understand the concept behind it. My 7 yo came home the day after I read this and he started working on his homework. He was asking a lot of questions and not sure about how to answer them. When I asked him further questions about his work he had no idea what I was talking about. So we started at the beginning. He was ticked because his homework took a lot longer but I'm hoping if I keep this up he'll now start to understand the concept behind what he's doing in school.

Before I read this book I had less patience for my children when they had difficulties understanding the concept behind their work.  I mean, I tried to be patient but I didn't understand why or how they weren't understanding the concept. Now that  I have a better understanding of what is going on I feel I'm able to assist better with their learning and understanding of concepts.

All in all a great read. Yes, it's a bit outdated in parts (which is why it's only a 4-star) but overall it's a must read if you're curious as to How Children Fail in school.


Second up: "A Mind at a Time" by Dr. Mel Levine

Goodreads synopsis:  
Using personal stories of clients he has treated, Dr. Mel Levine -- an expert in the field of child development and learning -- makes accessible the very complex workings of the brain and supplies ample ways in which parents and teachers can help children work past their limitations and enhance their strengths. Levine explains that each child is equipped with a different type of mind, one with its own strengths and weaknesses, and a child's failure to succeed in some aspect of schoolwork is actually a failure of teachers and parents to reach this child's particular strength. Through the book, the author hopes to motivate parents and teachers to recognize each child's individual talents and unique way of learning. The approach recommended here will enrich children's learning experiences and build their self-worth.

My thoughts: This book was a life changer for me. It made so much sense to me. Instead of seeing kids as "lazy," "stupid" or "dumb" Dr. Levine sees them as bright kids who haven't been taught in a way that their brain understands. He is able to take failing students, students who have given up on learning and turn them around to A students. This book is fascinating. I didn't read it straight through but instead read different chapters here and there. Through reading this book I was able to help my son find a good occupational therapist to help him with some of his auditory issues. It's been so helpful!! Finally help at last! If you have a child who is struggling in school I highly recommend this book.