Disarming the Playground: Violence Prevention Through Movement & Pro-Social Skills : Book Review

"Disarming the Playground" by Rena Kornblum provides a thought-provoking and informative exploration of the issue of violence in schools. With her extensive experience in working with schools and communities, Kornblum offers a fresh perspective on how to establish safe and nurturing environments for children.

Through an examination of the underlying causes of violence in schools, including bullying, social isolation, and a lack of effective conflict resolution skills, Kornblum emphasizes the importance of addressing these root issues. By doing so, she argues that violence can be prevented, and peaceful atmospheres can be cultivated within schools. The book offers practical strategies and techniques that can be utilized by teachers, administrators, and parents to disarm playgrounds and promote positive interactions among children.

What distinguishes "Disarming the Playground" is Kornblum's emphasis on collective responsibility. She highlights the necessity of collaboration among schools, parents, and community organizations in effectively addressing violence. The book provides real-life examples and success stories from schools that have successfully implemented Kornblum's strategies, making it all the more engaging and inspirational.

Kornblum's compassionate and empathetic writing style is another standout feature of the book. She recognizes the complex nature of violence in schools, taking into account the diverse backgrounds and experiences of both victims and aggressors. By advocating for a holistic approach that goes beyond punishment and focuses on understanding and healing the underlying issues, Kornblum creates a comprehensive guide.

Overall, "Disarming the Playground" is an indispensable resource for anyone involved in the education system or concerned about the well-being of children. Rena Kornblum presents a compassionate and comprehensive guide to preventing violence in schools, offering practical strategies and inspiring stories that demonstrate tangible positive change is achievable. This book empowers readers to create safer and more inclusive environments where children can truly thrive.

What are readers saying?

The book "Disarming the Playground" by Rena Kornblum has received a mix of reviews from its readers. Some praised the author's personal story and the important messages conveyed, while others felt that the book lacked depth and failed to provide a comprehensive analysis of the issues it addressed.

Several reviewers commended Rena Kornblum for sharing her personal experiences in "Disarming the Playground." They appreciated her vulnerability and found her storytelling to be engaging. Many readers applauded the author's efforts to shed light on the challenges faced by children with behavioral issues and their families.

However, some readers felt that the book fell short in its execution. They criticized the lack of depth in the author's analysis of the issues surrounding inclusive education and behavioral interventions. Some reviewers expressed disappointment with the repetitive nature of the writing and the lack of concrete suggestions and strategies.

Despite the mixed opinions about the overall book, many readers found value in specific chapters or sections of "Disarming the Playground." They particularly praised the chapters that discussed the importance of collaboration between parents and educators, highlighting the need for open communication and mutual understanding.

While some reviewers appreciated the author's personal anecdotes, others found them to be distracting and wished for a more balanced approach that incorporated a wider range of perspectives. Overall, the reviews for "Disarming the Playground" emphasized the importance of the issues depicted in the book but expressed varied opinions about the execution and depth of the content.

DisarmingThePlayground BookReview ChildrensLiterature