The Bookshelf: Jan. 7, 2016

Trib+Edu is joining with respected books authority Kirkus Reviews to bring you select reviews of books of note in the field of education. For more book reviews and recommendations, visit Kirkus.com.

THE IMPORTANCE OF BEING LITTLE: What Preschoolers Really Need from Grownups

by Erika Christakis

An early childhood educator offers fresh advice on how parents and teachers should be interacting with preschool children to achieve better overall results. … The author studies the need for arts and crafts time in school, which allows students to express themselves when they've yet to master reading and writing. Playtime is another focus, and Christakis stresses the benefits of letting children play outdoors with natural (and free) objects as opposed to continuous screen time. ... Christakis points out the flaws in many of the nation's preschool programs and offers concrete steps for change in the classroom and in education policies. A deep, provocative analysis of the current modes of teaching preschoolers and what should be changed to create a more effective learning environment for everyone.

For the full review, visit kirkus.com.