Review of The Art of Education

[Seetha E]

[Following is a volunteer review of "The Art of Education" by Lola Kay.]

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5 out of 5 stars

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Most of us have vivid memories of our times as students in a classroom. My experiences with teachers range from a few who were a complete delight, some who struggled to maintain basic classroom decorum, to those who appeared ill-suited for the job. The most loved and respected teachers were dependable, encouraging, and strong in their core subjects, and almost all of them went above and beyond to ensure they were approachable, understanding, and extended support whenever required. The author of the book The Art of Education, Lola Kay, invites educators on a journey to view all the present-day teaching challenges as opportunities and transform them into moments of introspection. She assures the inspiration will reverberate in a much-needed positive environment that enables joy within all-around growth. Empowered with effective and well-researched routines, both parties will enjoy a fulfilling experience. Please pick up a copy, implement it, and witness the positive impacts.

The initial half is about routines, the book's core content. It lays down the objectives and benefits of these well-researched routines for the various stages of the session (before, during, when closing, and after). I admire that the content justifies how careful planning and effective implementation of these routines set the tone for the session in class, fostering effective engagement, absorption, and participation. As the session proceeds, an effective closing routine helps summarize and analyze ways to improve. It also establishes individual connections with each student. Including case studies at Brightside Elementary, Sunnybrook Elementary, Middleton Middle School, Jefferson Elementary, and Mountain View Middle School made it satisfying and ensured the practicality of routines. I have seen the positive impact of behavior-specific praise and 4-7-8 breathing exercises and vouch for it. Another valuable takeaway lies in the following excerpt from the book: Don't forget to find the "sunshine" in every student! Not just your "A students." Overall, I can compare the incorporation of small changes through routines as systematic investment practices (SIP) toward a heightened rewarding teacher-student experience.

The second part of the book is about regularly oiling the routines put in place. The author acknowledges the absence of a one-size-fits-all approach and encourages regular reflection and tweaks as per requirements. Detailed discussions about differentiation based on various facts are crucial for the success of routines. Spending two minutes daily for ten consecutive days helps build trust and deepen connections. Tailoring routines ensure an inclusive approach. The author stresses the importance of efforts to identify the root cause of challenging behaviors. Working with the students to address the root cause, gradually building trust, and encouraging positive behavior rather than resorting to punishment offer a greater probability of a positive attitude from the student. Jose and Mr. Lopez's case study helps prove that addressing the issue will ensure cooperation from the student. I applaud the author for encouraging creativity and celebrating unique ways of learning to keep students charged and receptive. I reserve the final portion, the backbone of the system's functionality, for readers to find out for themselves.

I admire the holistic approach maintained in all the suggested routines. The teacher's role has always been beyond the course material. The entire exercise beautifully demonstrates why a school is considered a second home. Additionally, the worksheets at the end of relevant chapters offer a list of thought-provoking questions that will assist readers in planning an impactful interaction while nurturing and integrating the student with the little communities within the class and school and eventually raising responsible future citizens.

The book is error-free, and I commend the editing work. I can vouch that the book is comprehensive and answers all questions. This book is resourceful for all teachers, parents, guardians, and elders. Parents can use this content for homeschooling and fine-tune it to build a supportive family bond. The book has a perfect tone, enough case studies, and practical and flexible modules, leaving no scope for suggestions for improvement. I gladly rate this book five out of five stars and recommend it for home and educational spaces.

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The Art of Education
View: on Bookshelves | on Amazon

[Sarah Zain]

I like to read this type of book especially if it has several elements like practice and flexibility. Teaching is a demanding process with many factors affecting it. Thanks for the great review. The book will be on my list.

[Gerry Steen]

[Following is a volunteer review of "The Art of Education" by Lola Kay.]

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5 out of 5 stars

---

Share This Review

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Most of us have vivid memories of our times as students in a classroom. My experiences with teachers range from a few who were a complete delight, some who struggled to maintain basic classroom decorum, to those who appeared ill-suited for the job. The most loved and respected teachers were dependable, encouraging, and strong in their core subjects, and almost all of them went above and beyond to ensure they were approachable, understanding, and extended support whenever required. The author of the book The Art of Education, Lola Kay, invites educators on a journey to view all the present-day teaching challenges as opportunities and transform them into moments of introspection. She assures the inspiration will reverberate in a much-needed positive environment that enables joy within all-around growth. Empowered with effective and well-researched routines, both parties will enjoy a fulfilling experience. Please pick up a copy, implement it, and witness the positive impacts.

The initial half is about routines, the book's core content. It lays down the objectives and benefits of these well-researched routines for the various stages of the session (before, during, when closing, and after). I admire that the content justifies how careful planning and effective implementation of these routines set the tone for the session in class, fostering effective engagement, absorption, and participation. As the session proceeds, an effective closing routine helps summarize and analyze ways to improve. It also establishes individual connections with each student. Including case studies at Brightside Elementary, Sunnybrook Elementary, Middleton Middle School, Jefferson Elementary, and Mountain View Middle School made it satisfying and ensured the practicality of routines. I have seen the positive impact of behavior-specific praise and 4-7-8 breathing exercises and vouch for it. Another valuable takeaway lies in the following excerpt from the book: Don't forget to find the "sunshine" in every student! Not just your "A students." Overall, I can compare the incorporation of small changes through routines as systematic investment practices (SIP) toward a heightened rewarding teacher-student experience.

The second part of the book is about regularly oiling the routines put in place. The author acknowledges the absence of a one-size-fits-all approach and encourages regular reflection and tweaks as per requirements. Detailed discussions about differentiation based on various facts are crucial for the success of routines. Spending two minutes daily for ten consecutive days helps build trust and deepen connections. Tailoring routines ensure an inclusive approach. The author stresses the importance of efforts to identify the root cause of challenging behaviors. Working with the students to address the root cause, gradually building trust, and encouraging positive behavior rather than resorting to punishment offer a greater probability of a positive attitude from the student. Jose and Mr. Lopez's case study helps prove that addressing the issue will ensure cooperation from the student. I applaud the author for encouraging creativity and celebrating unique ways of learning to keep students charged and receptive. I reserve the final portion, the backbone of the system's functionality, for readers to find out for themselves.

I admire the holistic approach maintained in all the suggested routines. The teacher's role has always been beyond the course material. The entire exercise beautifully demonstrates why a school is considered a second home. Additionally, the worksheets at the end of relevant chapters offer a list of thought-provoking questions that will assist readers in planning an impactful interaction while nurturing and integrating the student with the little communities within the class and school and eventually raising responsible future citizens.

The book is error-free, and I commend the editing work. I can vouch that the book is comprehensive and answers all questions. This book is resourceful for all teachers, parents, guardians, and elders. Parents can use this content for homeschooling and fine-tune it to build a supportive family bond. The book has a perfect tone, enough case studies, and practical and flexible modules, leaving no scope for suggestions for improvement. I gladly rate this book five out of five stars and recommend it for home and educational spaces.

******
The Art of Education
View: on Bookshelves | on Amazon

What a great teacher's manual to help teachers brush up on their teaching methods and skills. I believe in the idea of spending a couple of quality minutes with each student on a regular basis to foster a positive interaction, gain a greater understanding of their needs, and to reward positive behaviors and small successes. I congratulate the author, Lola Kay, for putting together such a comprehensive teacher's guide that will offer a fresh perspective to any educator and for earning your 5-star rating. Great review!

[Seetha E]

I like to read this type of book especially if it has several elements like practice and flexibility. Teaching is a demanding process with many factors affecting it. Thanks for the great review. The book will be on my list.

Thank you for taking the time to read and for sharing your comments. Happy reading.

[Seetha E]

What a great teacher's manual to help teachers brush up on their teaching methods and skills. I believe in the idea of spending a couple of quality minutes with each student on a regular basis to foster a positive interaction, gain a greater understanding of their needs, and to reward positive behaviors and small successes. I congratulate the author, Lola Kay, for putting together such a comprehensive teacher's guide that will offer a fresh perspective to any educator and for earning your 5-star rating. Great review!

Very true, there is so much that goes into this, hence, noble profession. This is why even at this age we have distinct memories of some teachers and events inside certain classrooms. Thanks, Gerry for taking the time to read and sharing your thoughts.

[Julie Marie Basil]

I too have had some wonderful teachers as well as some who were not as great. This sounds like an encouraging book for all educators that can help them in their aims to connect with students.

[Priya Murugesan]

After reading your glowing review, I wish many educators would read this book and implement the techniques. Thanks for your wonderful review, and looking forward to reading more from you!