I attended a fireside chat yesterday at the Liacouras Center at Temple University with Bill Cosby, Jon Oliver and Dr. Wesley. The chat was geared towards Educators and the challenges we sometimes face with creating an environment which is conducive of learning. The event was really interesting and I was super excited to meet Mr. Cosby in person. Growing up a Cosby fan and getting to meet the man in person was an unforgettable experience for me.
The basis of our topic was the book The ABCs of Life: Lesson One: The Skills We All Need but Were Never Taught. What was most striking to me was the fact that educators sometimes tend to forget that basic life skills aren't always taught at home and that part of our classroom time may have to be spent teaching these much needed skills. This indispensable book gives adults a proven plan to help children develop the life skills and internal discipline necessary to learn and thrive in today's society. I can tell you as a educator of adult learners. In my day job as an Human Resource administrator I often encounter individuals how lack these vital social and life skills which sabotages their chances for success and promotions.
Although the chat yesterday was mainly geared towards best practices and strategies for educators of 4th, 5th, and 6th graders, I could easily adapt this training to adults - seeing as how this train-the-trainer session was for adults. I have had to find ways to integrate some of these skills into many of my trainings, sometimes dedicating workshops specifically to Life Skills, Emotional Intelligence, Cultural Competence, Time Management, Financial Management and Work Readiness.
If you haven't read this book, I highly recommend it, there is truly something for everyone, whether your a parent, and educator or someone who needs personal development.
