By: Stan Shapiro, Richard Skinulis & Karen Skinulis. 216 pages

Classrooms That Work is the result of over thirty years of work with teachers and principals on how to use a democratic approach to classroom discipline. We believe this approach is a perfect fit for where we are as a society and how we want to treat our students. The positive tools, principles and theories used in this book include:

• Working with group dynamics to unite the different personalities of your classroom.
  
  
• Encouraging students to work in partnership with teachers to solve problems together and create a harmonious classroom environment.
  
  
• Maintaining classroom order by replacing outmoded rewards and punishments with positive communications skills, classroom meetings, logical and natural consequences, and encouragement.
  
  Dealing with the classroom in transition – moving from an autocratic to a democratic environment.

Some of the common class management issues dealt with in Classrooms That Work include:

• Academic problems
  
• Class disruptions
  
• Inappropriate behavior
  
• Defiance
  
• Withdrawal
  
• Bullying
  
• Social problems 
  
• Low motivation

Chapters include:

• The new classroom: Going democratic
  
• Motivation from within
  
• The encouraging teacher
  
• Understanding behavior
  
• What’s wrong with punishment and rewards?
  
• Consequences: Taking responsibility for your choices
  
• Building rapport
  
• What to do the first day
  
• The class meeting
  
• The problem student
  
• Academic problems
  
• Problem solving and conflict resolution
  
• Communication skills
  
• Sociometry: The social relationship of the class

"Practical, hands-on, easy to read and put into practice. These strategies take the fight out of discipline and provide a calm workable approach" - Stephen Massiah, Principal

"I learned how to implement a democratic classroom, to turn mistakes into learning opportunities, and to work with students' energies rather than against them." - Geoff Green, Teacher

"This book fills an essential need in our schools today. It articulates a philosophy and a framework for good teaching practices that build on principles of democracy, equality, self-discipline and consideration of others. It is essential reading for all teachers and principals, and should be part of the new curriculum." - Dr. Mark Handley-Derry, M.A., M.B.B.S., D.C.H., F.R.C.P. eC), M.R.C.P.C.H. Consultant Pediatrician, Specialist In Developmental Pediatrics And Behavioral Problems In Children.

"Classrooms that Work is filled with wonderful strategies and practical advice." - Jack Cronin, Associate Director Of Education

"An important blend of philosophy and technique for developing socially responsible learners." - Jack Schnoor, Professor Emeritus Social Services Worker Program

You can also can order by mail with a cheque.

Send your purchase order, cheque or money order to
Practical Parenting Program Inc.
ONTARIO PARENTING EDUCATION CENTRE

56 Carrington Drive, Richmond Hill, Ontario Canada L4C 8A4