Author Description

The underlying goal of today's focus on service learning is helping children experience joy in community service - in cooperating, helping, caring, and demonstrating civic responsibility - while engaging them in learning. It is also the main point of this incredibly practical new book.Truly a hands-on guide to every aspect of implementing "service learning," from organizing the very first project to building school/community partnerships, this resource provides the means to improving education for children of all ages. In it are over 400 involving activities and projects. Some of the projects can be completed in a short time, while others require significant time commitments. All are curriculum-related; drawn from the experiences of actual teachers around the country; and serve to build self-esteem, promote critical thinking skills, and enhance academic, social, and psychological development.For teachers and administrators working with children from kindergarten through junior high school and for parents, community agencies, and educators on all levels. Specific details show how to plan, select, and design projects of varying duration, and thorough guidelines explain how to implement the project. Separate chapters on community service with senior citizens, the homeless, multicultural groups, special children, and the environment provide what's needed to incorporate activities on these pertinent topics.