Readers are challenged to draw their own proverbial line in the sand in matters of moral, social and intellectual development.  More specifically, A Line in the Sandbox invites readers to explore play, computers, memory development, parenting, reading, cell phones and technology, discipline, brain development, language skills and morality. 

 

Each chapter challenges current norms in our society using a cognitive, developmental framework of childhood to underscore the benefits or the potentially deleterious effects of our choices using research to explore common misconceptions in childhood.  The research is presented in a light hearted, easy to read format that is both educational and informative.  A Line in the Sandbox is a perfect balance of research based data and humorous anecdotes or vignettes.

 

A Line in the Sandbox affirms the beliefs of many upstanding parents and educators.  To them, this book will serve as vital reinforcement that their belief system and their values are respected and worthwhile.  The line, that has been firmly drawn, challenges parents and educators to do right by their children on matters social, emotional and educational, not what is right in any given moment but what is ultimately right in the long run.  This line in the sand is comprised of many smaller, interconnected lines that form one all-encompassing value that transcends race, religion or socio-economic status:

 

-         It is the line between nurturing a deep, meaningful education based on understanding and a superficial illusion of knowledge based on a child’s ability to recite facts.

 

-         It is the line between cultivating that emerging sense of moral fortitude and neglecting the natural compassion that children exude. 

 

-         It is the line between actually hearing our children’s needs and just listening to their utterances. 

 

-         It is the line between truly respecting our children’s individuality and guiding them to be the adults that we wish that they would become.

 

-         It is the line between moderation and excess.

 

-         It is the very fine line between teaching and telling that allows a child to develop with confidence both in the home and in the classroom.