The following is a list of websites and books that I have found informative and inspiring when thinking about the learning environment at home or in the school setting. I hope to grow this list over time. The list contains affiliate links. I am only listing books I have read and recommend.
Creativity
Inquiry-Based Learning
I first learned about Reggio Emilia schools way back in the late 90’s when I took an early childhood education class. This book is a must for educators. Although it is quite wordy, the book provides an explanation of Reggio schools, the importance of listening to children and how the learning environment should support and inspire young learners.
Project-Based Learning
- Project-Based Homeschooling: Monitoring Self-Directed Learners by Lori Pickert.
An excellent guide for parents wishing to implement project-based learning at home.
- The Unschooled Mind: How Children Think and Schools Should Teach by Howard Gardner
An excellent description of learning theory, understanding schools, and the importance of education for understanding.
Gifted Education Resources
The National Association for Gifted Children
Supporting the Emotional Needs of the Gifted (SENG)
Books About Gifted Learners
This is a wonderful book that discusses a wide variety of issues about gifted learners. It is a handy resources for parents and will help understand and advocate for your child.
- Some of My Best Friends Are Books: Guiding Gifted Readers by Judith Wynn Halsted
I have three advanced readers. This book helped me understand my children’s reading habits and ways to guide their reading and discuss books with them. It also contains an extensive annotated bibliography of more than 300 books. This book helped me find age appropriate challenging books for my three children.
- Smart Girls in the 21st Century: Understanding Talented Girls and Women by Barbara A Kerr and Robyn McKay
The authors share their insights and research about modern gifted women and girls. Wonderful information and advice on giftedness, achievement, and more.
- Teaching Gifted Children in Today’s Preschool and Primary Classrooms: Identifying, Nurturing and Challenging Children Ages 4-9 by Joan F. Smutny, Sally Walker, and Ellen Honeck
- Teaching Gifted Kids in Today’s Classroom: Strategies and Techniques Every Teacher Can Use by Susan Winebrenner and contributing author Dina Brulles, Ph.D.
I used both of these books during my Master’s of Education in gifted education program. I found both very helpful in providing practical techniques and examples of how to adapt curriculum for gifted learners. They would be helpful to homeschoolers as well. These are a wonderful resource for those working with gifted students.
guidedlearningstudio.com 