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"I enjoyed the book very much! I think that the
research I've seen, and been involved in, indicates that
first-year teachers are most in need of exactly what
THESE TRICKS ARE FOR KIDS provides. Realistic support
from an experienced mentor who knows what teaching is
about and approaches the many and varied tasks required
in schools every day with humor, candor, and a strong
personal value system. The book is easy to read, and I
think that is important because tired professionals
don't want to plod through a densely written tome.
Student teachers and first-year teachers are under a
great deal of pressure to do well, and this book
provides common sense reminders that are not radically
different from the theories their college classes were
based on, but are presented in a way that makes the
reader feel as if they are talking to a friend who
understands it all and can translate that into terms
they understand and appreciate."
~William E. Fredrickson, Ph.D.
Associate Dean for Academic Affairs
UMKC - Conservatory of Music
"Debbie: Thanks for the copy of your book. You
have covered so many areas and subjects that need
the attention of new (and for that matter,
experienced) teachers that
are not taught or discussed in traditional
programs. Much of what you cover in your book "just
happens" and requires immediate response. It's
great to have a book that helps with that
information. We often inform our students of some
of these possibilities, but usually can't be recalled when needed. Lots of
folks will likely wear your book out looking for
your TRICKS. I have shared my copy with our adjunct
music methods instructor and have purchased another
copy for myself.
Thanks for sending me a copy. People with your kind
of energy and dedication inspire!"
~Ron McClellan
Associate Professor of Music
MidAmerica Nazarene University
"If you know someone beginning or in the middle of a
career in elementary or preschool education,
particularly music, this book would be a terrific
gift! Debbie entertains and informs with ease. She
writes exactly how she talks so you don't feel as though
you're wading through a text book. THESE TRICKS ARE FOR
KIDS is a fun way to collect ideas for making teaching
and learning more fun for teachers and students. The
thoughts and ideas are universally applicable,
fun, thought provoking, helpful, and quite appropriate
for all teachers of all
children."
~ Mary Franco, National Board Certified Teacher
"You don't have to be a
Veterinarian to enjoy "All Things Bright and
Beautiful" and you don't have to be a teacher to
find many wise and useful tricks collected and
revealed in Debbie Gray's entertaining book. Like
her performances, the manuscript has energy, polish,
and fun. Parents, camp leaders, anyone who
works with children or adults will find
fascinating stories, thoughtful quotations, and fun
techniques. Be warned: there are a few experiences
recounted that may change you."
"These Tricks Are For Kids
is not only an excellent resource for a music
educator but for all classroom teachers. Debbie
Gray's "TRICKS" are not merely suggestions or ideas,
but tried and true methods that she uses daily in
her own classroom. Her sassy, smart, honest and
inspiring "TRICKS" are very much a reflection of her
teaching. She is a true master of music education
and her words are noteworthy to anyone perfecting
their skill."
~
Katie Britt, Educator
"I finished going through TRICKS this week and I
have been inspired!! Now I'm getting restless to go
back to school and try out some new things. I took
about three pages of notes and plan on using a lot
of Debbie's techniques. I really appreciate all of
her ideas on motivation and I like how she uses so
many different types of motivation so she keeps
students guessing what she will do next! I also
appreciate all of the sample letters that were
included. They will help me
make sure I am clear, thorough and professional. I
can tell that Debbie strives
to develop personal relationships with both students
and adults. That is a big goal of mine that I will
keep working towards. Thank you for writing down so
many ideas. I think TRICKS will be a wonderful tool
for beginning music teachers and I definitely
recommend it!"
~ Tracy Caton, second year music teacher
"I just wanted to let you know that I saved
reading your book (that I received from the
professional development conference in June) for my
LONG car trip to Myrtle Beach. Once I started
reading, I found myself marking and highlighting so
many of your "tricks" that the whole book turned
yellow! I wanted to let you know how much I enjoyed
the book, but more importantly, how useful I found
it to be. I am far from being a "new"
teacher and I'm still planning to implement many of
your ideas this year in my classroom!! I disagree
with the saying that claims you can't teach an old
dog new tricks!
Thank you so much for providing such an
inspirational, fun-filled idea book to help
classroom teachers. If I had the chance to go back
in time and relive my elementary school days, I know
that I would definitely want to be a student in your
class!"
~Kelly
Henik, Middle School Teacher
"I just finished reading your book and I just had to
tell you how much I LOVED IT! I am going into my 6th
year as a K-6 music teacher in a small school in
Vermont. At this point in my career, I feel like I've
mostly "got it all together," but your book really
opened my eyes and gave me some great new tips and
ideas! I am going to share the title with the other
music teachers in the district and recommend it to the
non-music staff as well. Thank you soooooo much for
writing it!
It's been a lifesaver already!"
~Leslie Johnson
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