Page 86 - SEN114 September/October 2021

Book reviews
Book reviews
A Mindset for Success In Your Classroom and School
T. Swainston
Tony Swainston has a long career in the teaching profession, followed by extensive experience in delivering training in both business and education, in over 15 countries around the world. He is a sought after keynote speaker with clients including Shell and the British Council and has trained over 20 UK schools in his ‘Mindset of Success’ programme.
The book is organised into four parts:
• Why changing mindsets in our schools matters
• What mindsets are all about
• How to change the mindsets of a school community
• Practical activities that change mindsets
Swainton writes in an easy to follow style and he clearly believes that outstanding teachers ‘believe in their
students’ and in their potential to develop a growth mindset, as he sees this of ‘immense importance’ in terms of academic and personal development.He talks about the importance of nourishing the brain with a diet of positive thoughts that support personal growth and the attainment of goals.
In Part 4 of the book there are a number of practical activities for both students and adults ( teachers, parents, support staff).
This is a well crafted book that offers a clear route to creating and maintaining a positive mindset approach to learning.
Crown House Publishing Ltd. ISBN: 978-1-7858397-3 £18.99
Day By Day: Emotional Wellbeing in Parents of Disabled Children
J. Griffin
86
Joanna Griffin is a Chartered Counselling Psychologist who has worked in a number of clinical settings, including the NHS. She also provides independent supervision and consultancy work and set up a website (affinityhub.uk) to signpost emotional support for parent carers. In this book, she draws on her own experiences as the parent of a disabled child, combined with her professional knowledge.
The book opens with a deeply personal account of the traumatic birth of her son, who nearly died, and was subsequently diagnosed with cerebral palsy and with behavioural and cognitive challenges that emerged as he got older.
The book also contains a number of useful appendices such as a wellbeing worksheet, information about
organisations that provide support to parent carers and a guide to terminology.
Griffin speaks directly to the reader and her information on the use of body approaches to wellbeing is interesting by referencing breathing technique, toning the vagus nerve, nurturing touch and ‘having a good cry’.
The wellbeing worksheet also structures ways for the parent carer to develop a sense of purpose, empowerment and awareness of emotions. It also provides ways to reflect on what can and cannot be controlled and how to challenge negative thoughts in dealing with complex issues.
Highly recommended.
Free Association Books ISBN: 978-1-9113835-3-6 £14.99
SEN114
senmagazine.co.uk