Catania provides a comprehensive overview of the theory and practice of implementing wellness practices in middle and secondary classrooms. This text examines all facets of wellness, from physical to mental, emotional, and spiritual. Catania begins each chapter by defining the aspect of wellness being addressed (social well-being, for instance), provides links to research and theory, and then fills the chapter with practical and pragmatic activities to generate that type of wellness in the classroom. His goal, ultimately, is to extend these wellness practices beyond the classroom and into the school as a whole and the community. Catania's writing is clear and easy to access. This text would be a great resource for beginning teachers or secondary schools just starting to implement a wellness thread into their programming or curricula. Recommended. Faculty and practitioners.
— Choice Reviews
This is an incredibly valuable resource with a range of benefits. Whether students need to be calmer, build agency with their emotions, create more body awareness, or move out of trauma responses, there are practical exercises that are easy to apply. I know many adults will benefit from these practices as well. Whether a teacher is familiar with well-being work or a novice, this book is chock full of activities to guide students into awareness and harmony with themselves.
— Gary van Warmerdam, Author, "MindWorks: A practical guide to changing thoughts, beliefs, and emotional reactions"
Since I am blessed to count Jeff Catania among my personal friends, I have the opportunity to learn directly from this remarkable human being. For everyone else, reading Flourishing Classrooms will immerse you in the sense of peace, joy, and love that emanates from him. Educators and students will be enriched beyond measure through the reflections, stories and practical activities that fill this wonderful resource. Essential reading for our troubled times.
— Damian Cooper, author and educational consultant, Ontario, Canada
A wealth of ideas and activities for enhancing well-being in your classroom!
— George Gadanidis, PhD, Education Professor, Western University