education

Dr. Marshall's book is the best educational book I have ever read. It's all about teaching how to get along and follow the rules without blaming, shaming, and making the receiver lose self esteem. While all concerned feel good about themselves, responsibility, rather than resentment, is the end result. I was one of those teachers who Marshall talks about who left the system because of the inability to practice such positive means in my school. Having taught all grades from first through graduate school, I encountered distraught children punished in inappropriate ways by faculty members.

As I read Marshall's book, I found myself wishing that I had had this as required reading in graduate school! There is so much to discuss, from self-awareness (i.e. whoever asks the questions controls the conversation) to classroom management to parent education. As a faculty, we chose this book as our summer reading. Everyone...and I mean EVERYONE...(approx. 25 faculty members) felt this was one of our best picks yet...and we've read some awesome books over the years! In addition to faculty discussions, we hosted a parent session to have a conversation on the parenting chapter. By and large, the parents were so excited by the stimulating conversation, that they asked for ways in which they could integrate the concepts at home! Marshall's concepts and strategies have the best interest of the child in mind. Truly a win-win...for students, teachers and parents!

This is one of the best books I have read about relating to kids. As a school psychologist it is a landmark book in making the shift away from using punishment and consequences to a mindset of working with kids in more positive ways to facilitate responsible behavior. I highly recommend this book to parents and educators.