For Goodness Sake: Supporting Children and Teens in Discovering Life's Higher Values

This is an indispensable book. The first great thing about it is the acknowledgment of the truth that children learn best through experience. The activities in this book are designed to give children the EXPERIENCE of universal values in simple and creative ways. The author lists these values and describes why they are important, and then describes the activities. Qualities like kindness and cooperation are getting a lot of attention in schools today (and are on the list), but the other qualities like courage, concentration, peacefulness, willingness, will-power and service (to name a few) really complete the picture of a joyful, well-rounded child. The rest of the book contains some of the author's experiences with children (which illustrate the development of these values), a useful model for understanding children's behavior, and a section on discipline. There is a wisdom and depth in his writing that goes beyond the words. I highly recommend this book.

For Goodness' Sake: Supporting Children & Teens In Discovering Life's Highest Values is a sourcebook of activities, advice, and tips on sharing values with children from ages 4 to 17. Written by an experienced parent, principal and classroom teacher, For Goodness' Sake covers how to exercise firm yet loving discipline, how to communicate honestly and effectively with children, helping children overcome the restlessness that can interfere with their learning, and much more. Activities emphasize such positive qualities as self-countrol ("Stony Faces" divides participants into pairs and has them look into each other's eyes; the first to smile, laugh or look away loses) and strengthening one's will (a three part activity that focuses on doing one thing at a time, finishing what one starts, and trying one new thing a day). A positive-minded blast of fresh air, filled with helpful suggestions for parents, teachers, and youth caregivers alike.