The Art of Teaching Children: All I Learned from a Lifetime in the Classroom

by Phillip Done

An essential guide for teachers and parents that’s destined to become a classic, The Art of Teaching Children is one of those rare and masterful books that not only defines a craft but offers a magical reading experience.

After more than thirty years in the classroom, award-winning teacher Phillip Done decided that it was time to retire. But a teacher’s job is never truly finished, and he set out to write the greatest lesson of his career: a book for educators and parents that would pass along everything he learned about working with kids. From the first-day-of-school jitters to the last day’s tears, Done writes about the teacher’s craft, classrooms and curriculums, the challenges of the profession, and the reason all teachers do it—the children.

Drawing upon decades of experience, Done shares time-tested tips and sage advice: Real learning is messy, not linear. Greeting kids in the morning as they enter the classroom is an important part of the school day. If a student is having trouble, look at what you can do differently before pointing the finger at the child. Ask yourself: Would I want to be a student in my class? When children watch you, they are learning how to be people, and one of the most important things we can do for our students is to model the kind of people we would like them to be. Done tackles topics you won’t find in any other teaching book, including Back to School Night nerves, teacher pride, the Sunday Blues, Pinterest envy, teacher guilt, and the things they never warn you about in “teacher school” but should, like how to survive recess duty, field trips, and lunch supervision. Done also addresses some of the most important issues schools face today: bullying, excessive screen time, the system’s obsession with testing, teacher burnout, and the ever-increasing demands of meeting the diverse learning needs of students.

But The Art of Teaching Children is more than a guide to educating today’s young learners. These pages are alive with inspiration, humor, and tales of humanity. Done welcomes us like visitors at Open House Night to the world of elementary school, where we witness lessons that go well and others that flop, periods that run smoothly and ones that go haywire when a bee flies into the room. We meet master teachers and new ones, librarians and lunch supervisors, principals and parents (some with too much time on their hands). We get to know kids who want to hold a ball and those who’d rather hold a marker, students with difficult home lives and children with disabilities, youngsters who need drawing out and those who happily announce (in the middle of a math lesson) that they have a loose tooth.

With great wit and wisdom, irresistible storytelling, and boundless compassion, The Art of Teaching Children is the new educator’s bible for teachers, parents, and all who work with kids and care about their learning and success.

Genres: Education, Teaching, Nonfiction, Parenting, Teachers, Audiobook

455 pages, Kindle Edition

Published July 26, 2022

About the author

Phillip Done is the author of the soon to be released The Art of Teaching Children: All I Learned from a Lifetime in the Classroom by Simon & Schuster/Avid Reader Press. He is also the author of the acclaimed 32 Third Graders and One Class Bunny: Life Lessons from Teaching, Close Encounters of the Third-Grade Kind: Thoughts on Teacherhood, The Charms of Miss O'Hara: Tales from Gone with the Wind & the Golden Age of Hollywood from Scarlett's Little Sister, and The Ornament Box: A Love Story with a foreword by screen legend Debbie Reynolds. Phil's writing has also been featured in Reader's Digest, Real Simple, The Chicago Tribune, and The New York Times.

Phil is the recipient of the prestigious Charles Schwab Distinguished Teacher Award, a Teacher of the Year in California, and a nominee for Disney's American Teacher of the Year. He has taught in public and private schools in the United States and internationally. To contact Phil, send him a message here on Goodreads or at Phillip Done on Facebook.

Reviews

[Adrienne Gear · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was sent a copy of this book by the author himself. I have never met him but, after starting his book, feel like he's my new BFF! Phillip Done's experienced "teacher voice" comes through with such passion, wisdom, and integrity throughout this book. You can tell he LOVED being a teacher (recently retired after 35 years) and wants to spread teacher joy everywhere! This book is written with the beginning teacher in mind, but even with 25 years plus teaching experience, I find myself nodding, laughing, marking pages, "making connections", and learning new teacher tips.
The book is easy to read, part narrative and part "how to", and filled with so many practical ideas and real stories from the classroom. It reads like a narrative, taking you into classrooms and putting you into real-life teacher experiences. I knew I was going to love the book when the first chapter was about the children and not the curriculum! Phillip Done is clearly a "child-centered" teacher and everything he writes about puts the needs of the child front and center. He then goes on to talk about the classroom itself, how to create a loving, caring class community that feels like home. From lighting, to seating, to decorations and music, and the all important "teacher board".
One of my favorite chapters (and the one I'm currently reading reading) is about The Craft of teaching which talks about teachers as artists. Done words are so reaffirming that teachers are special people who create and transform like artists, musicians and actors. "It's an art to get a crying kindergartner into the classroom on the first day of school, then ensure that he has a good day."
I highly recommend this book to any teacher who is just starting out into the profession or who needs a lift of reassurance and inspiration. It's easy beside reading, but don't forget your sticky notes! There are LOTS of gems you will want to go back to! Thank you, Phillip Done, for this wonderful, inspiring book and for gifting us with your book and reminding us that children matter and teaching is all about joy.

[Katie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book! It helped renew my love of teaching, which is nice as we're nearing the end of the semester and I am constantly tired and overworked 😂😅 There were also lots of new ideas I'm hoping to use, I especially liked the Tableaus, which I will be using with my students!

[Jen Babakhan · Rating 5 out of 5]

In The Art of Teaching Children, Done has accomplished the incredible: he’s compiled into one volume all that one could ever want to know about teaching children both in and out of classroom settings, and he’s done so in a way that is both delightful and entertaining. Books on the teaching profession can be both dry and unconnected with the lived experience, and this is neither. I found this book to be an absolute delight and necessity for anyone entering the profession or those who have taught for years.

[Ruth Puy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Part memoir, part Chicken Soup for the Teacher's Soul, part practical advice...all of this the teacher I want to be in 33 years, one that still loves the profession. So good!

[Stacy Ochsman Kravitz · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book made me wish I was a kid in Mr. Done's 3rd grade class. If it doesn't make you want to be a teacher, it will make you wish you were a student of his for sure. Mr. Done IS the teacher we all loved or desperately wanted to have and needed to have. If every school had a Mr. Done, the education system wouldn't be struggling. If every kid had a Mr. Done, our world would be a better, happier place.
The Art of Teaching Children is a handbook for every new teacher and for every veteran, seasoned teacher is a refresher, a reminder, of the gift you are given and it's a literal list of what you can do to increase the fun and learning in your classroom. The book details in a cute, nostalgic and NOT condescending way how best to be creative in sparking kids imagination and love of learning.
This story comes to us at a crucial moment in our world when teachers are being blamed for all the problems in the world and also being tasked with fixing them, when education has become standardized and not individualized, unique or creative.
Every school NEEDS a Mr. Done. If you need to feel hopeful about teachers, about teaching as a career, this is THE story you need. If you enjoy the nuanced imaginative creative innocence of children, this book will warm your heart.
I want to buy a copy of this book for all of the teachers in my child's elementary school. I have shared this book with my teacher friends, my SLP friends, and everyone raves that it is an essential handbook for working with children and renewing our spirits.
Mr. Done is a national treasure.

[Becky Bollinger · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mr. Done demonstrates a profound understanding of children and the art of teaching them. He successfully re-ignited my creative juices with his relatable narratives and wealth of ideas. Thank you, Mr. Done!

[Daniel Chia · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have always loved reading Phillip Done's wonderful books about his experiences teaching children since I read his first book years ago, so this latest tome by my favourite author was a must read the moment that I heard of its publication. And what a special book this turned out to be!

This book is the distillation of 33 years of teaching experience by Phillip Done, written in Mr Done's distinctive style combining humour and deeply moving insights about his students. It has practical advice and tips for newbie teachers interspersed with utterly heartwarming vignettes of his many students that will delight the veteran teachers and even the non-teachers among his readership. You really don't have to be a teacher to enjoy this book, because Mr Done will bring you right back to your childhood as he tells stories from the classroom that can only be gleaned from a lifetime of teaching.

This book delighted me from cover to cover, and I was particularly moved by his final chapter in which he described his final day of school after 33 years. It was beautiful, bitter-sweet and it brought a lump to my throat and a tear to my eye. How fortunate it must have been to be one of Mr Done's students over those 33 years, and I for one am grateful to have been able to catch a glimpse of what it must have been like to have been taught by a teacher like Mr Done. It is obvious that he cared deeply for every one of his students, and many are immortalised within the pages of his books.

If you are a teacher or a teacher-to-be, be sure to pick up a copy of this book. You will learn much from a master teacher. But this book is bound to delight every one who reads it, no matter what profession you are in, because we all wish we had a teacher like Mr Phillip Done.

[Ruby Best · Rating 4 out of 5]

“All children deserve to start their day with an adult saying: I value you. For many children, a cheerful smile and a hug from their teacher can be a lifeline.”

“Teachers are often described as artists. To me, this is most evident when we read to our kids. It is one of the most important things that we do - instill a love of reading in our students.”

This book is everything that it means to be an educator wrapped up with a bow. ♥️ This book will be something I hold unto and cherish for the harder days of working in education.

[Brandon Westlake · Rating 5 out of 5]

There are a lot of teacher books out there that try to encapsulate the mind and spirit of teaching, some succeed, some fail. This one excels. Done's writing is personable, thoughtful, reflective, but overall I would describe this book as warm. I definitely had a grin on my face as I read (as one review alludes to), and any teacher who reads this will undoubtedly feel like Done has connected to them in a way other people and teachers haven't. He knows the personal struggle of short lunches, crazy questions, and unique situations. He's someone who understands.
I recommend this to teachers who need someone to talk to and connect with, but haven't found that person yet. Done will help. His book conveys a sense of empathy as if he's telling these stories to you. It is also for the teacher who might need a shoulder to cry on. Done's writing shows you that he understands your frustrations and attitudes about your profession. It also is for teachers who feel the need to reflect, but may not how. Great teachers know that the best way to teach is to model, and Done's book does this.
Furthermore, as a high school teacher, I found a lot that I could connect to Done with. Don't shy away from this if you teach older students thinking, "oh, another elementary guy writing about singing and coloring" No, far from it. Education transcends the ages of the students we teach (after all, as I have been told before, my students are the same in many respects as elementary students, just in bigger bodies).
The chapters are short. Do yourself a favor and read one on a Wednesday as your mid-week treat to yourself, after the students have gone home, the meetings are done, and you have forced yourself into a few moments of quiet reflection before packing up for the night. Or, if you feel the impending stresses of the week on a Sunday night, spending some time lingering over these pages. The stories and advice by Phillip Done in these pages are what true teaching is all about

[Beth Keller · Rating 5 out of 5]

The world is a better place with Phil Done and teachers like Phil Done in it. And teachers, parents, and those who work with children on a daily basis are fortunate beneficiaries of this engaging and informative book – one that brought me many “melt” moments which Done describes experiencing throughout his career.

I’ve greatly enjoyed reading Done’s previous books and admired his ability as an author to capture the uniqueness of how children learn and perceive the world around them. In his newest work, he looks further at how teachers can build trust, respect, and connection within the classroom, providing numerous examples of how to meet children’s daily interactions with active listening, patience, openness, and humor. He also takes an honest look at the many challenges teachers encounter on a daily level as well, including the burnout that can often happen. Looking back on the breadth of his experience, he offers time-tested strategies and ideas that will help all teachers, regardless of grade or experience, with ways to engage and motivate children, effectively structure and manage the classroom, and develop and sustain themselves.

As I read this book, I kept reflecting on how lucky we would all be to have made such a difference in so many people’s lives and to value and love what we do in life. Bravo to Done for all he has done in his thirty-three years in the classroom, and for his desire and ability to share that so well with the rest of us.

[Sameera Nanayakkara · Rating 5 out of 5]

Review of Phillip Done’s ‘The Art of Teaching Children: All I Learned from a Lifetime in the Classroom’
By Sameera Nanayakkara

“I have come to believe that a great teacher is a great artist and that there are as few as there are any other great artists. Teaching might even be the greatest of the arts since the medium is the human mind and spirit.” —JOHN STEINBECK

“Teachers know that love is a vital part of education. Good teaching is infused with it. The most successful classrooms are brimming with it. Love is the reason people go into teaching—love for a subject and love for children. It’s what keeps them in the profession too.”

‘The Art of Teaching Children: All I Learned from a Lifetime in the Classroom’ by Phillip Done is hands down a must-read book by all teachers. Or else like me, anyone who wishes to journey back into their childhood classrooms and feel grateful towards those teachers who saw us achieve a lot more in life should grab this book.

I relished every word in the book and as a result it took way longer than usual to finish the book, five weeks to be exact with frequent daily reading of course.

Phillip Done has penned the book with over three decades of his personal experience and as a result the book is full of experiences, incidents, and playful interactions with children, those force your thoughts to effortlessly drift and wander away from the book into your own childhood and remain in that sweet spot for the longest time.

“As I thumbed through the images, I watched my hair get thinner, my wrinkles deeper, and my ties get narrower, then wider, then narrower again. I laughed at my most current photo. My new eyeglasses were exactly the same style as the ones I wore in my first school picture in the ’80s.”

Written by a teacher, the message and lessons conveyed are extremely engaging and even enchanting but pleasantly simple at the same time. The metaphors, explanations and even the jokes are super simple and well thought of.

“Don’t throw the baby out with the bathwater.”

Teaching is demanding and challenging. Though very unlikely, even if you had forgotten this fact, once you finish reading this book, you will come out with a newly polished respect for your teachers.

“There’s no question that teaching is one of the most demanding professions. And it’s not your imagination. It is getting harder—exponentially so. Every year, our students come to school with more and more challenges, and the bar for achievement is continually being raised. More is added to our plates, and rarely is anything removed. Each year, the job takes more out of you. Enrollments are up. Funding is down. Stress is at an all-time high.”

The book is well paced and beautifully structured to ensure silky flow and fulfill comprehensiveness without going overboard and adding bulk. The chapters are well versed and timely. There are chapters making the student the hero, chapters making the teachers the hero. The book talks about demanding children as well as how demanding the profession is and how exhausting it can be. Done talks of the impact of social media on modern education system as well.

The most touching concept in the book is that all children are smart, and how this realization brings colour and life to a child’s life.

“Teachers don’t just teach subjects or grade levels. We teach young human beings. We aren’t just experts in what we teach. We are child experts.”

I enjoyed the book, and it was both nostalgic and refreshing at the same time. Without any hesitation I give this book five stars and recommend it as a must read for everyone.

[Joanne · Rating 5 out of 5]

Whether a parent, teacher , paraprofessional ...you will enjoy this book. Having worked in an elementary school for 19 years I found myself nodding my head and thinking yup seen that...or laugh aloud at the things that come out of a child's mouth.
Mr. Done will be missed in the classroom as he writes of his retirement but how lucky were the children that had him as thier teacher. He is an inspiration to educators who are either new or feeling burnt out.
I will be gifting this book to anyone I know who is just starting out in an elementary level position, not only is there great advice, useful and imaginative lesson plans, but whatever feeling you feel at the end of the day...know you are not alone...we have all been there.

[Cynthia Vaughn · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a big book and every chapter and story deserves to be savored. To encapsulate an entire career in teaching is a daunting task and Phillip Done’s “The Art of Teaching Children” is an instant classic. I would recommend this to every elementary school classroom teacher and education major. Done shares his successes and strategies over the decades, as well as lessons learned. The stories he tells about his students (the names have been changed) are hilarious, heartwarming, and sometimes heartbreaking. I hope that some of these now older students (or their parents) will recognize themselves in these pages. Parents who read this book will have a much greater appreciation for the true work of a teacher.

[Norelle Done · Rating 5 out of 5]

A fantastic resource for teachers, and a fun read for anyone - I thoroughly enjoyed The Art of Teaching Children! Phillip shares his wealth of knowledge from decades of teaching alongside engaging stories and examples - I found myself laughing out loud from many of the anecdotes he shared. I am not a teacher, but the lessons and tips he includes can very easily be applied to parenting or interacting with kids in a way that builds them up and encourages learning. This book also brought out some nostalgia and gratitude for my own teachers. Thank you to Phillip and teachers like you who invest so much of yourself in the effort of cultivating young learners!!

[Sarrie Paguirigan · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Art of Teaching Children is a wonderful book written by Phillip Done. His passion and love of teaching comes through in his recollections and stories from past classes. He further shares that passion by weaving in tips and advice that can help both new and seasoned teachers alike.

Having worked in a classroom with Mr. Done, I witnessed first hand how his teaching practices help to create a positive learning environment where all students feel successful. He shows a genuine interest in his students which enhances the connections that he makes with them. The kids know that Mr. Done cares!

I highly recommend The Art of Teaching Children. It will touch both the heart and soul of any reader, especially those who work with children. If teaching children is an art, then Mr. Done is a skilled artist indeed!

[Charlie Gessner · Rating 5 out of 5]

As a former teacher myself with over 35+ years in the profession, I can honestly say this book covers it all. For people thinking of joining the profession, new teachers, and even veteran teachers; Mr. Done does a remarkable job covering all the trials and tribulations of the teaching profession. While the book mainly focuses on elementary students, even middle and high school teachers will learn a thing of two from this well constructed book. Do yourself a favor and pick this one up. You’ll be laughing, crying, and shaking your head in agreement with all of the examples of teacher/student relationships.

[Kim Clymer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Would love to have been in this teachers class! One of the best books I’ve ever read! And so we’ll written!
It will make you laugh, cry and further realize how stressful and difficult this job is!

While there are many “ helpful hints” for teacher’s, I think this book is truly meaningful for anyone to read. Those who teach, those who love children, parents, etc.
Good advice and life lessons for anyone!

“The passion, commitment, and warmth that you share with your students really do follow them for the rest of their lives. Be the teacher children remember fondly when they look back on their education. Be the teacher who comes into a child’s life, but rarely!”

[Janaya · Rating 5 out of 5]

Teacher friends; it’s a must-read. I will lend you my copy, although, I think you’ll end up wanting your own. I (very) slowly read this, but only because I was keeping it with me for support during my first year.


“I know the dictionary says that a teacher is a noun, but I definitely felt more like a verb. Verbs are actions words, and teachers are always in a state of action. All day long, we give lessons, correct papers, read stories, kick copiers, clean messes, love children. Our jobs are a thousand verbs put together. What we do is do.”

[Emma Nelson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Although The Art of Teaching is composed by an American Teacher. incidents that have happened within Done's classroom are instantly comparable with those that have happened within my own.

I found myself quickly moving through the pages agreeing with nearly all of the author's points - like those children that have etched a place upon your heart.
However, I found myself sometimes at odds with the differences between the American/British curriculums but wholeheartedly agreed with the impact of spending cuts on education.

Well written and thought provoking.

[Sully Rivera · Rating 5 out of 5]

A must read for new, and not so new teachers and any other children's educator. From personal advices on how to survive in the career, teaching strategies and truths. And to remind you why we all do it. The Art Of Teaching is written from the heart.
Go grab your copy!

[Alex Rohrer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this book. It's a must read for anyone who works in education. Even if you don't, if you want a peek into the world of education, these stories are heartwarming and provide deep sense of empathy for all teachers do.

[Denisse · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book should be not only be required reading for all beginning teachers, it is also a must read for every principal and teacher; newbies and veterans. Although there were a couple things I may not have agreed with, Mr. Done points out several non-negotiables that should be followed by all educators. The stories he tells and the examples he uses to reinforce these are humorous and heartwarming. A definite must read!

[Eileen · Rating 4 out of 5]

Phillip Done is a master teacher with 30 years full of stories. It's a big book not really set up where you can go to a specific chapter but loved his teacher humor.

[Ericka · Rating 4 out of 5]

A heartfelt account of one teacher’s teaching journey and the lessons he’s learnt along the way. 4/5, inspiring and filled with tips on how to maintain a whole child approach to classroom management.

[Laura Brady · Rating 5 out of 5]

Phillip Done's vivid storytelling sets this book apart from other books about teaching. The kids in his classrooms come alive with their quirky, but all-too-familiar, responses to situations. Phil is a master of the telling detail. Little things like: If you catch them running in the hall and send them back to walk, they will speed walk; if you tell them they may go back to their seats if they're wearing stripes, one wise guy will yank up his underwear to show you that there are stripes on it; if they are using a stapler, they will push the stapler hard with two hands and then turn over the paper to see if the staple went all the way through. Through Phil's eyes, I got a peak at what it's really like to spend decades in a room with little chairs and little minds and little hearts. And I can say without a doubt that the kids in his classes were very lucky.

I'm not a teacher, but I am a parent and a grandparent, I was a Cub Scout den mother, and a swimming coach, a camp counselor, and a Sunday school teacher. Phil's book resonated with all those parts of me. The central lesson is this: Kids respond to love and humor and genuine interest. It's hard work to be in that frame of mind all the time, but the result is worth it.

[Joni · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you’re a new teacher or studying to be a teacher and looking for ideas, support, encouragement, and concrete ideas for lesson planning, curriculum, classroom management, and the importance of incorporating humor while teaching, get “The Art Of Teaching Children” by Phillip Done. If you’re a seasoned veteran teacher who may have fallen into a slump and feel slightly burned out, get “The Art Of Teaching Children,” by Phillip Done. If you are a parent and would like to know what really goes on behind closed doors in the classroom, get “The Art Of Teaching Children” by Phillip Done. If you happen to be a retired teacher like myself, do yourself a favor and get “The Art Of Teaching Children” by Phillip Done. Having read many books on curriculum, education, and teaching over the years, (over 38 years to be exact,) I can honestly say this is hands down the best book I have ever read on how to successfully teach, encourage, motivate, reinforce, and truly make learning stick. The subtle gems thrown in throughout the book are priceless and worth much more than the price of admission. If I had this resource thirty-eight years ago, let’s just say it would have saved me a lot of time, tears, and money! Philip Done makes reference in the book that the art of teaching children cannot be found in a classroom, textbook, or by studying theories of learning. He is correct. However the art of teaching children can easily be found in the subtle nuances throughout the book. It can be found in the examples he has set with kindness, combined with support and understanding. It can be found throughout the book from the first page to the last. You will laugh, maybe shed a tear, and when finished truly know “The Art Of Teaching Children.”

[Amy McFadden · Rating 3 out of 5]

Two-fer book review: Teacher Inspiration edition.
I spent many weeks on the waitlist for The Art of Teaching Children; I heard about it in late summer, when someone recommended it as a great source of renewal and inspiration. I liked this book okay, but it was LONG. The audiobook was 20 hours (!!) and even at 1.75x speed, it was still very long. And it’s very cheery, relentless in its optimism. This book makes it sound like Mr. Done was one of those “above and beyond” teachers every minute of every day. Maybe I am just super cynical these days, but I kept thinking to myself, “Yeah, yeah, we get it, you’re awesome. Good for you.” ⭐️⭐️⭐️
Just a week or so later, I decided to read this new-to-my-library Gordon Korman book, The Unteachables. Yes, this is a middle grade novel, but I cannot imagine a better book for tired, jaded educators like me. If you find yourself playing around with the TRS online retirement calculator, or have said more than once, “How is it possible this school year is even harder than last year?” I can almost guarantee you will love this book. As always, Korman’s writing is brilliant, and his characters are so real and relatable. Funny quick read. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
So if you like your inspiration sweet, you might like The Art of Teaching Children; if you like your inspiration spicy, definitely read The Unteachables.

[Kate · Rating 4 out of 5]

Interesting perspective to take from a teacher. I expected something way different and more like structural for a parent but this was more like a teacher looking back fondly on kids through the year. I really hope my son has a teacher like this in his future cause it gives hope to the education system.

[Kathleen Garber · Rating 5 out of 5]

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The Art of Teaching Children
September 11, 2022 by Kathleen · (Edit)
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A book review of The Art of Teaching Children: All I Learned From a Lifetime in the Classroom by Phillip Done

A book review of The Art of Teaching Children: All I Learned From a Lifetime in the Classroom by Phillip Done
Stars: *****

Simon & Schuster (2022)
Memoir
464 pages

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links.

Summary: An essential guide for teachers and parents that’s destined to become a classic, The Art of Teaching Children is one of those rare and masterful books that not only defines a craft but offers a magical reading experience.

After more than thirty years in the classroom, award-winning teacher Phil Done decided that it was time to retire. His days of teaching schoolchildren may have come to an end, but a teacher’s job is never truly done, and he set out to write the greatest lesson of his career: a book for educators and parents that would pass along everything he learned about working with kids. The result is this delightful and insightful teaching bible, The Art of Teaching Children. From the first-day-of-school jitters to the last day’s tears, Done writes about the teacher’s craft, classrooms and curriculums, the challenges of the profession, and the reason all teachers do it—the children.

Drawing upon decades of experience, Done shares sound guidance, time-tested tips, and sage advice: Real learning is messy, not linear. Greeting kids in the morning as they enter the classroom is one of the most important parts of the school day. If a student is having trouble, look at what you can do differently before pointing the finger at the child. Ask yourself: Would I want to be a student in my class? When children watch you, they are learning how to be people, and one of the most important things we can do for our students is to model the kind of people we would like them to be.

Done tackles topics you won’t find in any other teaching book, including Back to School Night nerves, teacher pride, lessons that bomb, the Sunday Blues, Pinterest envy, teacher guilt, and the things they never warn you about in “teacher school” but should, like how to survive lunch supervision, recess duty, and field trips. Done also addresses some of the most important issues schools face today: bullying, excessive screen time, unsupportive administrators, the system’s obsession with testing, teacher burnout, and the ever-increasing demands of meeting the diverse learning needs of students.

With great wit and wisdom, first-rate storytelling, and boundless compassion, The Art of Teaching Children is the definitive guide to educating today’s young learners and the perfect resource for teachers and parents everywhere.

The Art of Teaching Children
I’m not a teacher in a school but I’m a homeschool teacher and I’ve done co-op in schools and helped as a lunch aide and I was a Girl Guide leader so I’m used to working with kids. I thought this book might have some insight applicable to a homeschool teacher and I was right.

Although all of it is aimed at a school teacher, some of it was still applicable. The section on reading aloud is the best read aloud advice I’ve seen and I’ve been reading whole books on the subject lately. Even the sections that don’t apply to homeschoolers like were interesting to read. The whole book was captivating.

I wish I had taken copious notes to share with you here but I had to return it to the library and didn’t think to make notes. So much of it was uplifting and some of it was helpful. It was a fun read and has TONS of great advice for teachers.

If you are a teacher or intend to become one you definitely need to read this book. But if you teach in unconventional ways, I think you will enjoy this book too. I highly recommend it.

[Kerri-Lee · Rating 4 out of 5]

It took me a while to get through this book. I found the author’s voice repetitive and (sorry) annoying…..hearing constantly about “my friend Jill” and how everything was “Smart. Clever.” I think what bothered me the most was that the tone came off as rather boastful and condescending. A very energetic person who is well-meaning but can’t quite read the room. Maybe I wouldn’t have felt that way if I was earlier in my teaching career. To be fair I may not have been the key demographic for this book; perhaps it is intended for beginning teachers.

Although the author taught in many multicultural classroom settings, much of his advice was simply not applicable to today’s educational focus (at least here in Ontario, Canada) on equity/rights and being mindful of bias as a Caucasian teacher to students of a wide variety of races and cultures. Plenty of his ideas I could not use, and he never once addressed racial bias in the book. It read as if from a simpler, easier time when all students were expected to celebrate the same holidays. It seemed outdated for a book only a couple years old. Maybe this focus is not brought up in American schools?

My last complaint is that I kept waiting for a chapter about classroom management/student behaviour specifically. He gave a few cute little tips scattered around the other chapters. He sounds like an excellent teacher and I know he has some great procedures up his sleeve for lining up, leaving the room, quieting the class, work completion, and other basic things. I would have loved to hear them. He made it seem like the biggest problems in his classes were just cute things that kids sometimes said out loud during a lesson, or giggling too loudly. I need the real deal from the trenches! That being said, I do understand his message about letting your positivity, joy and love shine through as your best source of connection with students to improve behaviour.

Despite these shortcomings, this book absolutely warmed my teacher heart and restored my sense of joy and hope in the profession, even after a challenging year and experiencing some burnout. It was a great summer read. I wrote down plenty of excellent teaching ideas and am feeling renewed to approach the classroom again this year with a fresh start and a warmer perspective on how special this role is. So I warmly thank the author for that.