This publication discusses issues of parent-teacher partnerships that affect children's development. An introductory chapter suggests that the central figures in fostering the development of a child's potential are the significant adults in the child's world. Chapter 2 considers family relationships as prototypes for later partnerships, and lists…

This book contains selected papers presented at a working conference, "Cultural Diversity: Implications for Education", held in 1991. The issues explored cover such areas as cultural therapy as a means to enhance student-teacher relationships; the differences in attitude and motivation of immigrant and domestic minority youth; the…

Demonstrates how three groups--professionals, parents, and children--relate to each other concerning the responsibility of children's education. Proposes specific categories of accountability that each group must assume for the home-school partnership to develop. (MM)

This essay presents a list of 11 qualities that outstanding teachers possess, including: (1) flexibility (being able to change plans at a moment's notice and make adjustments accordingly); (2) enthusiasm and energy (showing a drive to excite students and model positive behavior); (3) empathy (acting understanding and compassionate of parents as…

Many countries throughout the world have developed programs to encourage parents to become more involved in their children's schools and education. In Turkey, the importance of parent involvement has been recognized only recently. The parental involvement program initiated in TED Ankara College in Ankara is Turkey's first Kindergarten and primary…

Discusses ways early childhood professionals can meet the identity needs of biracial children and their parents. Suggests school and class activity experiences to support biracial children. (BB)

Reading for pleasure and enlightenment is a critical, and endangered, element in a well-informed citizenry. As a basis for intellectual growth, reading is threatened by media misuse and lack of encouragement of recreational reading. Solutions include emphasis on integrated skills, improved time allocation, and cooperation among parents, teachers,…

Describes one elementary teacher's experience when a minor event (a student forgetting to bring a permission slip and lunch for a field trip) resulted in a major class lesson in responsibility. Another teacher and a social worker present their perspectives on the situation and provide suggestions for teaching responsibility. (SM)

Focuses on the transition of problem children from one child care center to another, when administrators determine that a program can no longer serve that child's needs. Describes four different cases to illustrate the range of behaviors associated with difficult children. Proposes strategies to accomplish successful transitions for these children…

Professional literature highlights the importance of school-family connections for increasing student success. Parent-teacher collaboration to support student learning is one competency in new standards for beginning teachers. Universities can provide experiences to help future teachers understand diversity. Student teaching provides optimal…

Discusses stages of the grieving process and ways in which early childhood teachers and caregivers can help young children understand and cope with death. An annotated bibliography of children's books concerning death is provided. (BB)

This publication discusses policy issues, practices, and research related to parent involvement in education in the United States. Written for local school boards, professional staff who work with boards, and interested parents, the paper calls for policies that will encourage parents to assist in their children's educational development. After an…

This collection of articles, intended for kindergarten teachers, focuses on the importance of the teacher's relationship with parents and the need for parents to be active participants in their child's educational development. The first article reviews the literature and research related to parent/early childhood education, touches on some current…

Education may promote the development of students' whole-person identity formation--the spiritual, psychological, social, emotional, and intellectual. This paper considers how identify formation and self-esteem are related, how parents form the foundation for identity, and how teachers can contribute to further growth. Erikson's theory of…

Examines the objections of parents' rights advocates to middle school philosophies and programs. Considers how to address parental concerns about middle level education, including grouping students for learning; integration of curriculum, instruction, and assessment; and school climate. Recommends that middle schools focus on academic achievement,…