Catechist's Toolbox

The Catechist’s Toolbox
How to Thrive as a Religious Education Teacher
Joe Paprocki
LoyolaPress
2007, 136 pages

After you purchase multiple copies of What Do I Do Now: A Guide for the Reluctant Catechist (Pflaum Publishing)” which I coauthored with Susan Stark, I enthusiastically recommend The Catechist’s Toolbox.

In addition to the catechist preparation materials in the catechist guides of all major curriculums, catechists will find themselves returning often to The Catechist’s Toolbox, an “encyclopedia” of skills, tips and practical advice.

First, I recognize and congratulate Tracy Sainz for creating one of the best-designed religious and spiritual book covers of 2007. The bright color, modern typeface and selected image work together to create a clean and engaging cover, which beautifully represents the interior design and content.

The interior design reminds me of one of the popular Idiot’s Guide… Series. Each of the 17 chapters offers practical advice on those topics that catechists are always looking for help. These include: planning, selecting learning activities, learning styles and learning environment, classroom management, power of prayer and the Bible.

While diocesan and parish catechetical leaders design, implement and encourage participation in a variety of educational and formational programs, I encourage them to provide each catechist with this low-tech, reasonably priced, on-demand collection of tools for learning throughout the year.   (catechistsjourney.org)

Comments

[Joe Paprocki]

Dan, thanks so much for the gracious and affirming book review! I'll do a post about it on my blog today inviting folks to explore your site. It's a pleasure to "meet" another person who is passionate about supporting catechists! Keep up the great work! -joe

[Linda]

I am open to any great ideas for first year yeachers. I have third grade w/16 students in it. Thanks!! Linda