Description
Book SynopsisTeaching teenagers can be very rewarding; it can also be very challenging. Relating to Adolescents helps adults who work with teenagers to understand what happens in their dynamic with students. From the "Five Things Teens Need from Grown-Ups" to the "Seven Grown-Up Skills," this book covers all aspects of the adult-teenager relationship and provides educators with guidance and practical tips on how to increase their effectiveness in their work with teenagers in schools.
Trade ReviewThis book can help teacher educators and their schools of education in a variety of ways from its use as a course text to its potential to provide the springboard for institutional reform. -- Ted Sizer, founder and chair emeritus of the Coalition of Essential Schools
Porter's keenly observed study of the adult- teenage dynamic in schools is a welcome foray into a complex and misunderstood world. By openly acknowledging challenges that are rarely discussed in schools, she provides a useful guidebook for teachers and administrators to confront these challenges. Whether the reader is a novice teacher or seasoned administrator, her insights will shine light on the familiar and encourage a fresh look at the practices of adults in a teenage world. -- Rachel Friis Stettler, director, The Winsor School, Boston, Massachusetts
Reading this book is like having a really good friend sit down and tell you the truth. In a world focused on youth, Susan Porter's book reminds us of the importance of our own adulthood. With encouragement, insight, and humor, her wisdom guides all of us who care about teenagers through the inevitable conflicts and joys of our work. She helps us remember that adolescents need the adults in their lives to provide boundaries, love, and support. -- Travis Brownley, head of school, Marin Academy, San Rafael, California
Teachers of teenagers are often confused when dealing with adolescent behavior, and many are just as confused by their own behavior in reaction to students' idealism, enthusiasm, mood swings, and self-absorption. Writing with compassion for teachers and their students, Porter, a veteran teacher, clinician and consultant in schools, helps adults who work with grades 5-12 understand what happens in their relationship with students. Her 'seven grown-up skills' and 'five things teens need from grown-ups' provide a framework for healthy interactions with teens. Case studies and chapter reflection and discussion questions are included. * Research Book News, August 2009 *
Porter has written a gem; her expertise in working with adolescent students is readily apparent. Indeed, Porter has developed several skills and lists that are concisely presented, well-written, and extremely useful. Highly recommended. * CHOICE, February 2010 *
This is a book every new teacher should read. -- Peter Thorp, chief of staff of the California Charter Schools Association
Table of ContentsChapter 1 Foreword Chapter 2 Introduction Chapter 3 The Phenomenon of Adolescence Chapter 4 Working in the Teenage World: Adults in the Hot Zone Chapter 5 The Seven Grown-Up Skills Chapter 6 The Five Things Teens Need from Grown-Ups Chapter 7 Dos and Don'ts Chapter 8 Five Guidelines for Administrators: The A-Team Chapter 9 The Eightfold Path of Adult Self-Care Chapter 10 Epilogue
