Summary of Discipline that Restores: Strategies to Create Respect, Cooperation, and Responsibility in the Classroom, by Ron Claassen and Roxanne Claassen

Transform your classroom dynamics with 'Discipline that Restores'. Uncover strategies for respect, cooperation, and responsibility among students.

Ah, the classroom. A sanctuary of learning, or, depending on the day, a battleground of teenage angst and defiant eye rolls. If you've ever found yourself wondering how to turn a chaotic class into a harmonious hub of respect and cooperation, look no further, my friend. Discipline that Restores is here to save the day-kind of like a superhero, but instead of a cape, it brings along strategies and a bucket full of common sense.

So, what exactly do Ron and Roxanne Claassen have to say that can transform your classroom into a picturesque utopia of learning? They dive straight into the weeds of discipline by introducing us to the concept of restorative practices. Spoiler alert: it's not about passing around a plate of cookies and singing Kumbaya, but rather about fostering accountability and community.

First up, we need to understand that traditional discipline is like putting a Band-Aid on a broken arm. It might cover up the issue temporarily, but it's not addressing the underlying problem. The Claassens push for building relationships instead. They want you to know that getting to the heart of the matter means connecting with your students on a human level. Yes, that's right-real emotions are involved!

Next, they lay out various strategies to foster cooperation. This includes everything from establishing clear expectations-because, let's be honest, most students think "don't eat your classmates" is a guideline they can negotiate-to teaching conflict resolution skills, kind of like group therapy, but without the overpriced couch.

One of the cutest yet eye-roll-inducing aspects of their approach is the idea of those tricky little things called "consequences." Instead of yelling, "You're grounded! And I'm taking your phone!" (we know you've been there), the Claassens suggest using consequences that encourage restoration. This could mean having the misbehaving student clean up a mess (and no, not just the one they made), while also reflecting on what went wrong. It's like making them do community service, but for bad behavior.

Throughout this enlightening read, you'll find the authors tossing in plenty of examples and scenarios. Expect to hear about how to handle everything from minor chatty Cathy-ism (when students just can't resist gabbing during your riveting lecture on quadratic equations) to full-on classroom meltdowns that could rival a toddler tantrum.

To wrap it all up in a neat little bow, the Claassens remind us that creating respect, cooperation, and responsibility isn't just about punishing bad behavior-it's about teaching students to take ownership of their actions and fostering a sense of community. By using restorative practices, you can help them learn to resolve conflicts like mature adults instead of mini dictators. This book is your one-stop-shop for turning your classroom into a flourishing garden of respect-so grab your gardening tools (metaphorically, of course), and let's get to work!

In sum, Discipline that Restores is the ultimate guide for educators looking to charm their way through the wild world of classroom management, filled with humor, practical strategies, and a sprinkle of empathy. Get ready to transform those eye rolls into nods of cooperation!

Maddie Page

Classics, bestsellers, and guilty pleasures-none are safe from my sarcastic recaps. I turn heavy reads into lighthearted summaries you can actually enjoy. Warning: may cause random outbursts of laughter while pretending to study literature.