Today You Will Learn: Student Relationships

This third book in the Today You Will Learn series will help teachers learn about what students are able to do, what challenges them, and what is far too complex for them to handle. A solid grasp of the true nature of a student's capabilities is imperative so that the teacher neither expects t0o much nor too little from the student. Proper understanding of the child's cognitive, emotional and psychological development is essential for teaching; it provides the teacher with a realistic frame in which to appropriately challenge his student.

To be a successful teacher, one must first truly know the student and cultivate a healthy relationship with him-and with his parents. The final chapter of this book discusses healthy relationships between teachers and parents.

Anyone who studied the other books in the Today You Will Learn series gained much from learning how to prepare and teach masterful lessons and skillfully manage the classroom. Now you are ready to advance your knowledge and abilities in cultivating a solid relationship with your students.

One of the most powerfully guiding principles on which this book is based, one that every teacher must embrace, is the instruction of Rabbi Elazar ben Shamua in Pirkei Avos: The honor of your student should be as dear to you as your own. This book will help you meet that lofty goal.

Being the teacher of Jewish children is an awesome responsibility, as well as a unique privilege. It is not something for all to pursue; only a select few are worthy of this great undertaking. These heroes will be rewarded with great joy, happiness and health. With the help of Hashem, these unique individuals will be zocheh to raise beautiful generations of children to illuminate the world with their Torah and avodah.