Alisa's Education Talk

7-17-08 Unmotivated Kids and What's Wrong with Public Ed

acook@principaltutoring.com (Alisa G. Cook) — Wed, 30 Jul 2008 12:51:15 GMT

Dr. Sylvia Rimm joins Alisa to talk about 'National Parenting Gifted Children Week,' and why bright kids may not be motivated. Plus, Nancy McKallion, a 3rd grade teacher in Tucson, gives us her opinion on how public education is failing the students.

7-10-08: Pima Partnership Academy and Sunnyside Technology

acook@principaltutoring.com (Alisa G. Cook) — Wed, 30 Jul 2008 12:18:58 GMT

Alisa interviews Dr. Brenda Even on her involvement with the newest 7-8th grade school in Tucson, Pima Partnership Academy. Plus, Brandon Protas, of Sunnyside School District, about their exciting program to bring laptops to freshmen students who meet high expectations.

6-26-08 Parent Alienation Syndrom

acook@principaltutoring.com (Alisa G. Cook) — Wed, 30 Jul 2008 12:14:46 GMT

Alisa interviews Dr. Amy Baker, author of, "Parent Alienation Syndrome" on how any why parents who are going through a divorce may alienate their child(ren) from the other parent.

6-5-08 Marlin Keesler

acook@principaltutoring.com (Alisa G. Cook) — Fri, 13 Jun 2008 14:21:42 GMT

Marlin Keesler, a father of two children who are diagnosed with Asperger's Syndrome, ran 50 marathons in 50 states to help connect with his family, and help his children. Learn more about his adventures by listening to this episode of Alisa's Education Talk.

5-29-08 Stephanie Clark "Life as a Single Mom"

acook@principaltutoring.com (Alisa G. Cook) — Fri, 13 Jun 2008 14:20:13 GMT

Alisa talks with Stephanie Clark, author of "Life as a Single Mom," and founder of "Project Single Moms."

5-22-08 Debra Beck "My Feet Aren't Ugly"

acook@principaltutoring.com (Alisa G. Cook) — Fri, 13 Jun 2008 14:17:08 GMT

Alisa visits with Debra Beck again - author of "My Feet Aren't Ugly," on how teen girls can learn to accept themselves.

4-24-08 Clarissa Willis - Educating Autistic Students

acook@principaltutoring.com (Alisa G. Cook) — Thu, 08 May 2008 23:34:25 GMT

Author and autism expert, Clarissa Willis, talks with Alisa about how parents and teachers can work with young children who have been diagnosed with Autism (and other Autism Spectrum Disorders).

4-17-08 Chad Bladow on Surviving the Teen Years

acook@principaltutoring.com (Alisa G. Cook) — Thu, 08 May 2008 23:33:05 GMT

Chad Bladow is a teenage survivor, and he wrote a book for teens about how to get through, what some feel, is the toughest time of life.

4-10-08 Nancy Redd on "Body Drama"

acook@principaltutoring.com (Alisa G. Cook) — Thu, 08 May 2008 23:32:01 GMT

Alisa interviews former Miss America contestant, and best-selling author, about her book, "Body Drama," a guide for teenage girls on how to understand, and accept, their bodies.

4-3-08: Julie Scandora on Respecting Children

acook@principaltutoring.com (Alisa G. Cook) — Thu, 08 May 2008 15:40:55 GMT

Mother and author, Julie Scandora, on how to speak and live respectfully with the children in your life.

3-27-08 James Webb (Misdiagnoses of Gifted Children)

acook@principaltutoring.com (Alisa G. Cook) — Thu, 08 May 2008 15:39:52 GMT

Alisa interviews Dr. James Webb, noted expert on gifted children, about how so many children are misdiagnosed with various disorders when, in fact, they may be gifted.

3/20/08: Helping Children Grieve

acook@principaltutoring.com (Alisa G. Cook) — Fri, 21 Mar 2008 17:25:07 GMT

Alisa interviews Carole Brody Fleet, author of "Widows Wear Stilettos," on how to help children grieve.

3/13/08: TUSD Superintendent and Teen Suicide

acook@principaltutoring.com (Alisa G. Cook) — Fri, 21 Mar 2008 17:23:16 GMT

Alisa interviews outgoing TUSD Superintendent about the budget crisis. Plus, and interview with Christy Whitman, author of several books on teen and young adult suicide.

3/6/08: Finding Your Courage, and author Mila Pesko

acook@principaltutoring.com (Alisa G. Cook) — Fri, 21 Mar 2008 17:21:58 GMT

Alisa interviews authors Mila Pesko and Margie Warrell. Mila wrote a fantastical children's book called, "Little Mary of the Rose," and Margie has written several books on finding courage, and owning your responsibilities.

Raising an Autistic Child

acook@principaltutoring.com (Alisa G. Cook) — Thu, 06 Mar 2008 22:15:24 GMT

Alisa talks with Jackie Marquette, author, consultant, researcher and mom of an autistic son who successfully transitioned to adulthood. Plus 'In the News,' and 'Blogspot.'

2-21-08: "Widows Wear Stilettos," author and Gifted Children

acook@principaltutoring.com (Alisa G. Cook) — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 15:50:32 GMT

Alisa talks with Carole Brody-Fleet, author of "Widows Wear Stilettos," and an interview with Dr. James Webb and Jan Gore, authors of "Parent's Guide to Gifted Children." Plus 'In the News,' and 'Blogspot.'

2-14-08: Dr. Ken Condrell on Loving Parental Relationships

acook@principaltutoring.com (Alisa G. Cook) — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 15:49:01 GMT

An interview with Dr. Ken Condrell on the importance of parents taking care of their relationship so that they can better parent.

2-2-08: Julian Lev, "The Meaning of Life" author

acook@principaltutoring.com (Alisa G. Cook) — Fri, 08 Feb 2008 16:25:12 GMT

Alisa talks with Julian Lev - Author of "The Meaning of Life." Plus 'In the News,' and 'Blogspot.'

1-19-08: Parenting Expert, plus Cyberbullies

acook@principaltutoring.com (Alisa G. Cook) — Sat, 26 Jan 2008 06:32:50 GMT

Alisa talks with Nicole MacKenzie, a renowned parenting expert from Switzerland. Plus, information about cyber-bullying, and what to do about it.

1-5-08: Joe Sindoni and New Years Resolutions that Matter

acook@principaltutoring.com (Alisa G. Cook) — Sat, 19 Jan 2008 16:29:16 GMT

Happy New Year! Alisa discusses why most New Year's Resolutions don't stick, and why making a resolution that matters will help. Plus, a revisit of her interview with Joe Sindoni, author of '50 reasons to NOT have children..and what to do if you have them anyway.'

1/12/08: Involving Teens With Teaching About Meth

acook@principaltutoring.com (Alisa G. Cook) — Fri, 18 Jan 2008 15:20:32 GMT

An interview with the founders of Taproot, Inc., an innovative program to help teens teach themselves and the community about the dangers of methamphetamine. Plus, 'In the News,' and 'Voices of GEAR-UP.'

12/15/07: The Voices of GEAR-UP

acook@principaltutoring.com (Alisa G. Cook) — Sun, 16 Dec 2007 00:41:49 GMT

Alisa interviews three talented local youth - all participants of the Tucson GEAR UP program, guided by caring adult mentors. Featuring music written and performed by the students. PLUS, Pam Laubscher, the Clutter Buster, tells us how to involve children in cleaning/organizing.

12/1/07: Lynn Lott Interview, plus David LaMotte LIVE

acook@principaltutoring.com (Alisa G. Cook) — Sun, 16 Dec 2007 00:38:04 GMT

Alisa revisits an interview with Lynn Lott, author of 18 titles related to Positive Discipline. Plus, a live studio performance by singer/songwriter, David LaMotte in celebration of the opening of Tucson's Peace Garden.

11-3-07: When Parents Don't Agree About Parenting

acook@principaltutoring.com (Alisa G. Cook) — Tue, 06 Nov 2007 13:16:24 GMT

Alisa discusses some tips for parents who may have very different parenting styles. Plus, and interview with Janet Buell, author of the 'Emotional First Aid Manual.'

10-27-07: Talk with 'Open Your Heart w/ Bicycling' author

acook@principaltutoring.com (Alisa G. Cook) — Mon, 05 Nov 2007 15:42:22 GMT

An interview with Shawn Rohrbach, author of "Opening Your Heart with Bicycling."

10-20-07: 'Open Your Heart,' and the Message of Love

acook@principaltutoring.com (Alisa G. Cook) — Sat, 27 Oct 2007 11:53:09 GMT

Making sure the message of love gets through, plus interviews with Meg Bertini, publisher of the 'Open Your Heart' series of books, and Janice Marie Phelps, author of 'Open Your Heart with Pets.'

10-13-07: Why Children Misbehave, and Amy Kalafa, Angry Mom

acook@principaltutoring.com (Alisa G. Cook) — Sat, 13 Oct 2007 19:35:45 GMT

Why children misbehave, and what parents can do about it, plus an interview with Amy Kalafa, filmmaker and angry mom discusses what parents and teachers can do about the sad state of school lunch programs.

9/29/07: Building Self-Esteem and author, Hannah Bajor

acook@principaltutoring.com (Alisa G. Cook) — Wed, 03 Oct 2007 16:02:28 GMT

Alisa discusses how to help children form a positive and healthy self-esteem, plus an interview with Hannah Bajor, author of "Birth, a Conscious Choice." Teacher Tips: Working with English language learners.

9/15/07: ADHD and How Diet Affects Family/Child Happiness

acook@principaltutoring.com (Alisa G. Cook) — Fri, 28 Sep 2007 00:20:12 GMT

Alisa discusses ADHD and advises parents and teachers on how to work with, and help, students. Plus, and interview with Denny Waxman, author of 'The Great Life Diet.'

9/22/07: Joe Sindoni and '50 Reasons to NOT Have Children'

acook@principaltutoring.com (Alisa G. Cook) — Fri, 28 Sep 2007 00:18:36 GMT

A fun and informative interview with Joe Sindoni, author of '50 Reasons to NOT Have Children; and what to do if you have them anyway.'

9/8/07: Bullying in Personal Relationships

acook@principaltutoring.com (Alisa G. Cook) — Fri, 28 Sep 2007 00:06:06 GMT

Alisa talks with Arnie Bianco, author of 'One Minute Discipline,' and other titles, and Stuart Thomas, president of the Tucson Peace Center and host of Access TV program, 'World Harmony,' about bullying in personal relationships.

8/25/07: Workshop Guests Discuss Positive Timeouts

acook@principaltutoring.com (Alisa G. Cook) — Fri, 28 Sep 2007 00:04:03 GMT

Alisa invites some of her workshop attendees to discuss what they're learning, and also how Positive timeouts can be used in the workplace, or by teachers and parents.

8-11-07: The 'Pleasing' Personality - also, Arnie Bianco

acook@principaltutoring.com (Alisa G. Cook) — Sat, 15 Sep 2007 17:52:22 GMT

Alisa discusses how adult attitudes affect the behavior of children - today's program focuses on the 'pleasing' personality priority.

August 4, 2007: Preventing Bullying featuring Izzy Kalman

acook@principaltutoring.com (Alisa G. Cook) — Sat, 11 Aug 2007 16:58:11 GMT

A back-to-school special on bullying featuring expert Izzy Kalman, author of Bullies to Buddies (www.bullies2buddies.com). Get help for your classroom, school, or home and tackle the CAUSE of the bullying.

July 28, 2007: "Loving Things Journal"

acook@principaltutoring.com (Alisa G. Cook) — Sun, 05 Aug 2007 18:33:21 GMT

Alisa discusses the 'superiority' personality profile, and what it invites from children. Also, an interview with Sally Dubel, creator of the "Loving Things Journal."

July 21, 2007: Letting Go of Control

acook@principaltutoring.com (Alisa G. Cook) — Sun, 22 Jul 2007 19:26:29 GMT

The third of several programs on how adult words, actions and attitudes affect the behavior of children. This week, Alisa discusses the 'Control' priority and what it invites, good and bad, from children and others. Also, special guest Debra Beck, author of "My Feet Aren't Ugly," talks about how parents and teachers can help teen girls survive and thrive in today's world. Children's Book Corner: My Feet Aren't Ugly, by Debra Beck

6/30/07: The 'Comfort' Zone

acook@principaltutoring.com (Alisa G. Cook) — Wed, 04 Jul 2007 18:36:21 GMT

The second of several programs on how adult words, actions and attitudes affect the behavior of children. This week, Alisa discusses the 'Comfort' priority and what it invites, good and bad, from children and others. Also, special guest, Pam Laubscher (The Clutter Buster!) talks about how parents and kids can have fun organizing together. Children's Book Corner: It's Okay to be Different, by Todd Parr.

June 23, 2007: How adult attitudes affect children

acook@principaltutoring.com (Alisa G. Cook) — Sun, 24 Jun 2007 13:29:39 GMT

The first of several programs on how adult words, actions and attitudes affect the behavior of children. Also, an interview with Cheryl Erwin, author of many Positive Discipline titles, including "Positive Discipline: The First Three Years," " Positive Discipline for your Step-Family," "How to Turn Boys into Men: A Single Mother's Guide," and "Positive Discipline for Childcare Providers."

June 16, 2007: Father's Day Special

acook@principaltutoring.com (Alisa G. Cook) — Tue, 19 Jun 2007 05:40:24 GMT

A special Father's Day edition of Positive Discipline Radio - Alisa celebrates her father, Edward Cook, and interviews Arnie Bianco, local educator and father. Also featured, an interview with Jeff, Brittany and Brianna Winner - authors of The Strand Prophecy - the result of a co-authorship project with a father and his twin 11 year old daughters.

June 9, 2007: Focusing on Solutions

acook@principaltutoring.com (Alisa G. Cook) — Sun, 10 Jun 2007 14:44:30 GMT

Alisa discusses how parents and teachers can focus on solutions to teach self-discipline, responsibility, and reflective problem-solving skills instead of resorting to punishment and reward.

June 2, 2007: Full Program including Jane Nelsen Interview

acook@principaltutoring.com (Alisa G. Cook) — Sun, 10 Jun 2007 14:41:44 GMT

Alisa interviews Jane Nelsen, author of 'Postive Discipline' and 18 other related titles. Mother of 7, and grandmother of 20 (and counting!), Jane shares her wisdom on why punishment and reward don't work in the long-run.

June 2, 2007: Jane Nelsen Interview

acook@principaltutoring.com (Alisa G. Cook) — Mon, 04 Jun 2007 00:49:12 GMT

An interview with Jane Nelsen, nationally renowned author of Positive Discipline and 17 other titles. Alisa and Jane discuss the importance of focusing on solutions instead of relying on punishments and reward. Plus, advice for parents and teachers who are considering implementing family or classroom meetings.

May 12, 2007: Social Feeling (Interview w/Beki Quintero)

acook@principaltutoring.com (Alisa G. Cook) — Sun, 13 May 2007 16:30:20 GMT

How instilling social responsibility and feeling can help parents and teachers help children become well-adjusted, socially responsible, happy adults. An interview with Beki Quintero, local author of, In the Peace Garden.

May 5, 2007: Encouragement v. Praise (Interview w/Lynn Lott)

acook@principaltutoring.com (Alisa G. Cook) — Sun, 13 May 2007 16:22:47 GMT

Alisa discusses the difference between encouragement and praise. Lynn Lott, author of over 15 books on Positive Discipline, and other related titles, discusses how teens can benefit from parents and teachers who are self-reflective and encouraging. Book Corner, "The Summer Night."

April 14, 2007: Positive Timeouts, Pt. II

acook@principaltutoring.com (Alisa G. Cook) — Sun, 15 Apr 2007 14:26:11 GMT

Alisa outlines the guidelines and steps to creating a positive timeout space for yourself and your child(ren). Children (and adults!) do better when they feel better - asking curiosity questions can teach children self-reflection, self-monitoring and other valuable life skills. Book Corner, "What Does Peace Feel Like?" with quotes from children around the world.

April 7, 2007: Positive Timeouts, Pt. I

acook@principaltutoring.com (Alisa G. Cook) — Sun, 08 Apr 2007 15:41:30 GMT

Part I on Positive Timeouts, with special guest Pam Laubscher (The Clutter Buster). Alisa answers the question why children under the age of four should NOT be placed in timeout, and outlines the steps to creating a positive timeout space for yourself and your child(ren). Children (and adults) do better when they feel better and positive timeouts allow problems to be solved after both parties are removed from the intense emotions that come from conflict. Book Corner, "Navajo: Visions and Voices Across the Mesa," by Shonto Begay.

March 31, 2007

acook@principaltutoring.com (Alisa G. Cook) — Sun, 01 Apr 2007 13:42:11 GMT

Part III of the discussion on Bullying - what's the difference between bullying and teasing, and how to help a child who is being bullied, and some advice for parents who are helping their bullied students. Book Corner, "The Bully, the Bullied and the Bystander."

March 24, 2007

acook@principaltutoring.com (Alisa G. Cook) — Sun, 25 Mar 2007 16:41:27 GMT

A continuation of the discussion on Bullying - what's the difference between bullying and teasing, and how to help a child who is bullying, and some advice for teachers dealing with bullying in the classroom. Children's Book Corner, "Just Kidding."

March 17, 2007

acook@principaltutoring.com (Alisa G. Cook) — Sun, 18 Mar 2007 15:29:32 GMT

A discussion with 'Discipline Guru,' Arnie Bianco - author of 'One Minute Discipline: Classroom Strategies that Work,' and 'Edu-toons: Education in America.' Arnie and Alisa take one call from a high school teacher struggling with classroom management. Children's book corner: 'Say Something'

March 10, 2007

acook@principaltutoring.com (Alisa G. Cook) — Sun, 11 Mar 2007 23:38:51 GMT

Alisa discusses anger in children and adults, and how Positive Discipline can help. She takes one call from a parent of a 2 1/2 year old and answers an email from a parent of a 2 year old. The question of the week asks what to do about biting and hitting. Children's book corner: "Albert's Impossible Toothache"

March 3, 2007

acook@principaltutoring.com (Alisa G. Cook) — Sat, 10 Mar 2007 15:22:54 GMT

The premiere show! Alisa introduces basic concepts of Positive Discipline and takes two calls - the first from the father of a teenager, and the second from a new school teacher struggling with classroom management. Children's book corner, "I Love You the Purplest," by Barbara Joosse.