Reviews and Endorsements

Review

December 2, 2017

I was hooked on the book on the first page of the preface. Many readers will have a similar reaction, recognizing their own school experiences as students and teachers and seeing the wisdom of teaching children with these methods.

I hope this book sells well, is widely read and that the methods described within it are thoroughly implemented. If this were to happen, there would be a profound, positive effect on teaching and learning wherever these methods are practiced.

The teaching methods described in this book are positive, empowering and inspiring. If implemented well, they will significantly enhance students' learning and teachers' sense of efficacy, confidence and job satisfaction.

Despite decades of new ideas and approaches to education, it all comes down to this—that which makes the greatest difference in schools fulfilling their mission is the nature of the teacher-child interaction, moment by moment, as the days and years unfold.

When teachers approach their potential in developing strong teaching interactions with students, their students will approach their potential as learners.

All teachers and teachers-in-training should read this book and implement its strategies. Their students would benefit greatly from their doing so.

Dr. Stan Paine

Former National Distinguished Principal

Review

November 15, 2017

Dear Art Willans and Sara Reeves,

I have completed reading the new book Freedom to Learn by Art Willans and Cari Williams. It was wonderful.

• The book grabbed me from the introduction all the way to the ending. I was eager to find out what all the useful tools of the methodology were for working with children.
• This is a practical and useful book for seasoned teachers, beginning teachers, students planning to become educators, parents and grandparents. A must read for all new parents!
• The examples given were clear and easy to relate to, very practical and useful.
• The summaries at the end of each chapter were great reviews, plus easy to go back to as quick overviews of the book.
• Such a positive way of dealing with children and “spouses” or any loved one.
• Providing children with a rationale is so logical, but so seldom provided. This simple step can make a huge difference in the relationship of the teacher/student.
• It is such a practical approach to teaching that one would think it would be common knowledge, but we all know that what should be “common sense” is often times the last approach.
• Impressive, easy to read, practical, useful, creates a positive learning environment, and has data to support its effectiveness.

Hopefully, you can tell that I was thrilled to read such a useful book. If I was still working at the University of Wisconsin Oshkosh in the Special Education Department, it would be required reading for all of my students. I wish Art & Cari continued success.

Sincerely,

Marlene Andrews

Retired Faculty Member

Special Education Department

University of Wisconsin Oshkosh