This thoughtful book by the director of the LTS-based Teaching Tolerance project, analyzes the roots of intolerance, how to prevent prejudice and how to teach children to embrace respect for differences based on race, religion, gender, sexual orientation, disability, class or other circumstances. At some time in their lives, the author argues, all children will be of intolerance, rejected by others for a reason that is unfair: because of their size, age, gender, skin color, language, beliefs, looks or abilities. We are intolerant, she says, not because we are ignorant or racist but because we are human. Using touching stories and practical examples, she defines what tolerance is, describes our tendencies to stereotype, reject and take out frustrations on others, and outlines the skills and actions needed to overcome intolerance in ourselves and our communities The book includes discussion questions for each chapter plus an appendix listing family activities, resources, recommended reading and US organization promoting tolerance.

This award-winning book is divided into three parts: (1) Educating for Values and Character introduces the field of values education, outlines why it is necessary, discusses what values schools should teach and outlines the three aspects of good character: moral knowledge, feeling and action.; (2) Classroom Strategies for Teaching Respect and Responsibility discusses topics such as the democratic classroom, teachers as role models, Respect and cooperative learning, teaching controversial issues and conflict resolution skills; (3) Schoolwide Strategies for Teaching Respect and Responsibility looks at promoting global awareness, kids as good samaritans, community models, sex, drug & alcohol education, creating volunteering, the need for inspiring role a moral culture in the school, teacher-parent cooperation and values education at home.

This book is an essential guide for parents and teachers who want to encourage tolerance, respect and self-esteem, and discourage hatred and violence. It provides a hands-on, down-to- earth approach that explains how to combat prejudice and resolve conflicts at home. in school and in the community while teaching children the kinds of values they need to live fruitful lives in today's changing world. Among other topics, the author looks at how our culture instills bias and glorifies how to cope with war toys and television violence, how critical thinking can help young people resist peer pressure, how to break down racial and sexual stereotypes, how to deal with sexual harassment as well as how to build a positive multicultural community, address hate crimes, communicate across cultures and take action for a better world. Also included is a rich variety of checklists, resources and addresses.

This book grew out of a European curriculum development project entitled Education for Citizenship in a new Europe - learning democracy, social justice, global responsibility and respect for human rights. It looks at how European teachers are working to prepare young people for European citizenship and to confront racism, xenophobia, sexual inequality and other problems. The 18 essays, by educators from countries such as Denmark, France, Germany, Italy, Russia, Spain and the UK, offer practical guidance to teachers and schools seeking to put into practice the recommendation of the Council of Europe that "our education systems should encourage all young Europeans to see themselves not only as citizens of their own regions and countries, but also as citizens of Europe and of the wider world". This is a good stimulus for teachers in Japan to teach beyond nationalism towards education for both Asian and world citizenship.

Newsletter #25
Global Issues SIG Newsletter Index

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