I started this list with what I consider are lesser-known or older books that every parent and teacher must read. Maybe I am showing my age, but I think a lot of these “older” books are sometimes better than some of the “newer” books. This book list is for any parent, any educator, or even just anyone who is into self-help and learning more about the brain. 

Smart Moves by Carla Hannford, Ph.D

In order for kid’s brains to learn, they have to move! Parents and teachers know this, but Hannaford’s book explains the how and the why, and goes into the details of movement and brain science while being relatable and easy to understand. This book was ahead of its time, she even touches on EMFs, toxins, and yeast overgrowth and how that can affect the immune system and various health issues (and therefore learning issues).

I found it very interesting how the majority of children in special education classes are gestalt (right) hemisphere dominant, and the majority of children in gifted and talented classes are logic (left) brain hemisphere dominant. Our school culture is labeling everyone and truly not meeting the needs of a lot of kids. We can do better.

The Dominance Factor by Carla Hannford, Ph.D

I enjoyed the book “Smart Moves” so much that I had to read Hannaford’s other book, The Dominance Factor. I don’t want to over-hype this book, but for me it was truly mind-blowing! Everyone has a dominant hemisphere of the brain, and a dominant hand, foot, eye, and ear. The book has different learning profiles for everyone based on their dominance profile.

This book is a gem, particularly for teachers, students who may have learning struggles, and homeschooling parents. Each person has their own natural learning style. I am unsure why a lot of the information in this book isn’t more mainstream common knowledge. The Dominance Factor was originally published in 1997.

Here are some interesting examples shared in the book:

• Children who are right-eye dominant have an easier time tracking from left to right and therefore, may have an easier time reading English.
• Children who are left-eye dominant naturally track from right to left, languages like Arabic and Hebrew may be easier for them to read.
• Left-eye-dominant kids may need a little more time to start reading, or may take in more from listening to audiobooks.
• If the dominant eye is on the same side as the dominant brain hemisphere, visual access is decreased during stress, and the person may need to look away to communicate.
• If the dominant ear is on the same side as the dominant brain hemisphere, then auditory access is limited when under stress.
• Over half of all learners are auditory limited, yet the majority of teaching in classrooms is verbal.
• Hands-on learners may do best sitting in the back of class, where their fidgeting won’t bother anyone.
• Right-ear dominant learners may do best by sitting on the left side of the classroom.

This book is just filled with interesting takeaways for any educator, whether you educate in the classroom or at home!

Hold Onto Your Kids by Gordon Nuefeld, Ph.D & Gabor Mate, M.D.

This book is geared towards parents in general, and while I didn’t find it earth-shattering, it did help me in affirming my decision to homeschool. The book goes into attachment theory research and how kids need to be attached to their parents for learning, brain development, and later life success. Homeschooled kids spend more time with their parents, which, in my opinion, makes attachment easier and more natural. 

Outliers by Malcom Gladwell

This book isn’t geared toward homeschoolers, but I found it to be an interesting read, especially if you’re considering holding your child back to delay academics or athletics. Does a couple of months difference in age really make a difference in a classroom full of kids about the same age? The answer is yes.

One example he gives about hockey players in Canada is that the majority of the best players have birthdays in January, February, March, and April. Since the age cut-off is January 1, it makes sense that these kids are bigger, older, and would have more experience than their counterparts that are a couple of months younger. And at age 9 or 10, a 7 to 11-month age difference can look and feel substantial. Talent plays a role, but so does timing and culture. 

Parent Effectiveness Training by Dr. Thomas Gordon

This book is an excellent read for any parent. But for parents who want to connect with their tweens or teens in a loving and respectful way, this is an ideal read for improving your communication and listening skills. Some people might think it is obvious how to talk/listen to your kids, and for some it may be, but for others it isn’t.

The skills shared in this book are helpful to better engage in thoughtful conversation (or counseling) with your kids. Once you read it, you might think to yourself, “I wish my parents had read this book when I was a kid,” unless you were one of the lucky ones. 

Playful Parenting by Lawrence Cohen, Ph.D

This book is not as popular, but I found it to be very much something I needed to read. Kids need to play to learn and to feel connected. Having a playful attitude can help make life more fun and lighthearted, and possibly more efficient! Playing is learning, laughing is healthy. Remembering to stop, unplug, and play is important! And all too easy to forget as a busy parent with serious things to do! 

Glow Kids: How Screen Addiction is Hijacking Our Kids and How to Break the Trance by Dr. Nicholas Kardaras 

We all know about the ill effects of too much screen time, video games, and social media, but it’s always helpful to remind ourselves. The detrimental effects of screens can cause serious problems if left unchecked. If you need to read something to help you in your resolve to limit screens, this is it. 

I found this book particularly useful and more geared towards those of us parenting boys. Another book, “The Anxious Generation” by Jonathan Haidt, might be a better fit if you have girls- as his focus is more on social media usage, but both are great reads. 

Brain Gym

Brain Gym shows you simple exercises to engage both sides of the brain, cross the midline, and can improve learning for anyone of any age. Teachers, parents, and caregivers can incorporate these simple exercises into their children’s daily movement education, and I have seen first-hand some of the benefits of doing these exercises consistently. These exercises are easy and quick and can help with motor control, handwriting, reading, and emotional regulation- among other things. Could it really be this simple? Yes, it can! Work out the brain. 

Must-Reads for Homeschool Inspiration!

The books below are the best books for when you need some homeschool inspiration! These books are popular for a reason, because they are good. 

The Brave Learner by Julie Bogart

If you need some inspiration, read this book. It will inspire you to make learning magical and fun! And make learning a time of deep connection with your children. If you’re curious about homeschooling or are on the fence, this book may sway you. Julie has some great ideas, many of which are equally practical and magical. 

Let’s Play Math by Denise Gaskins

If your child is struggling with math, or you are struggling with how to approach teaching math, please give this book a read. Denise Gaskin’s book is packed with useful resources for math games, book lists, project ideas, and websites. A lot of her activities are geared towards grades K-4. She also has separate books for specific games and activities for making math fun and hands-on. My son and I found math to be fun (imagine!) after incorporating a lot of her activities into our homeschool.

The Read-Aloud Family by Sarah Mackenzie

This book reminds us of the power of reading aloud to and with your children. Even when all seems to go amiss during homeschooling, the simplicity of reading with your children is powerful, and so much is gained through this seemingly simple activity. She also has a podcast and book lists to find quality titles. 

The Call of the Wild and Free by Ainsley Arment

No matter what “type” of homeschooler you are, this book will bring magic and inspiration to your home. This book is such a reminder that homeschooling can look different for each family. We don’t have to succumb to the daily slog of curriculum, and we can harbor a love of learning in our children. All children have something that creates the spark in them, we just have to take the time to let them find it. Homeschooling can offer the opportunity to find that spark and explore it!

Free to Learn by Peter Gray

This is an unschooling book that I enjoyed reading. I am reminded that children are born wired to learn and be curious. Having time, freedom, and peers to learn from are an invaluable part of education. And self-education is the form of education that is most likely to stick. 

I hope these books inspire you or your children in your learning and life journey! What books did I miss?