Learning to Work Cooperatively and Respectfully with Others 

Democratic life skills are skills that enable all of us—children and adults alike—to be caring, thoughtful members of families, schools, communities, and societies. But these emotional and social skills don’t just happen. Teachers and families support and nudge young children toward them, using guidance techniques that calm and teach. 

Completely updated and revised, the second edition of this classic resource provides relatable anecdotes and practical strategies for teachers to understand 



Why building secure relationships with children and families is so important—and eight communication practices to build them 
How viewing misbehavior as mistaken behavior allows you to focus on helping a child learn better ways to meet their needs 
When and how to use specific guidance practices to promote children’s healthy personal development and social cooperation 
How an encouraging learning community helps everyone move toward achieving their potential 

Whether you’re a veteran teacher or just embarking on your teaching journey, you’ll find what you need in this book to provide young children with a solid foundation for their—and society’s—future.