Learning to Trust: Transforming Difficult Elementary Classrooms Through Developmental Discipline [Hardcover]

"If you read one book on discipline during your teaching career, this should be the one." (Rethinking Schools, Fall 2003)

"...presents a strong case for an alternative approaching utilizing Developmental Discipline." (Education Review, 10/2/03)

"...I've attended workshops and read numerous articles...but nothing has inspired me as much as Marilyn Watson's new book..." (Rethinking Schools Online, Winter 2003)

"Learning to Trust should be required reading for any elementary or secondary school teacher..." (Education Review, 12/2/03)

"Combining great wisdom, extensive knowledge of research and theory, and years of practical experience, Marilyn Watson compellingly presents an evidence-based model for educating all children more effectively. She provides powerful stories and insightful analyses of student-teacher interactions that engage students, and offers practical strategies and techniques to motivate students to be and do their best. This book will renew the optimism and resolve of educators who sometimes feel frustration and doubt about promoting successful outcomes with challenging students and classrooms. Watson describes approaches and perspectives that can prepare teachers to become the educators that parents want their children to have and that students remember for a lifetime. Watson's views and suggestions will energize and excite readers about the potential positive effects of high-quality education. At CASEL, we are often asked to recommend book s for teachers, administrators, and parents about integrated academic, social, and emotional learning. Learning to Trust is at the top of our list."
— Roger P. Weissberg, executive director, Collaborative for Academic, Social, and Emotional Learning (CASEL), professor of psychology and education, University of Illinois at Chicago

"I regard this book as a wonderful gift. It is quite unusual to find a book that is so well grounded both in research-based theory and in classroom practice. I want the content of Learning to Trust to be known by all the participants in the teacher preparation program I direct— student teachers, master teachers, supervisors, and course instructors."
— Paul Ammon, Professor of Education and director of the Developmental Teacher Education Program, University of California, Berkeley

"I kept seeing myself and my students in this book. As recognizable negative situations arose I kept thinking, 'How in the world is she going to get out of this one?' Over and over, Laura showed how to turn negative situations around so that the students weren't cornered, but were empowered in a positive way."
— Sandi Turner, teacher, Mariemont School, Sacramento, California

"In this book, Marilyn Watson has taken years of experience, wedded it to a deep understanding of child development, and applied a powerful ability to listen and interpret the experience of one remarkable and courageous teacher, Laura Ecken. Together, Marilyn and Laura show us all a more enlightened way to work with challenging children in schools. The unique application of attachment theory to classroom management and discipline offers all educators a new vision for fostering healthy classrooms and children of character."
— Marvin W. Berkowitz, Sanford N. McDonnell Professor of Character Education, College of Education, University of Missouri-St. Louis

"Learning to Trust provides powerful and thought-provoking insights that will act as a springboard for discussion for educators wrestling with the challenge of effective classroom discipline. This book will make you want to talk."
— Shelia Koshewa, resource teacher and Child Development Project coordinator, Jefferson County Public Schools, Louisville, Kentucky