As I mentioned a few posts ago, I have a new book being published by Loyola Press titled The Catechist’s Toolbox: How to Thrive As a Religious Education Teacher. Here is the table of contents so that you can see what I personally feel belongs in each catechist’s toolbox:

1. Shop-talk: The Language Of Catechesis
2. Blueprints – Planning and Preparation 
3. Socket and Wrench Set - Finding Activities That Fit
4. Color Charts - Selecting Learning Activities
5. Different Types of Wood – Adapting to Learning Styles, Special Needs, and Diversity
6. Drop Cloths - Preparing for Things That Can Go Wrong
7. Applying Primer – Preparing the Learning Environment
8. Spotlights - Shifting the Focus onto Learners
9. Extension Cords - Plugging into the Power of Prayer
10. Sandpaper - Smoothing Out Discipline Problems
11. Furniture Polish  - Polishing Your Technique
12. Instruction Manuals - Using Textbooks And Catechist Manuals
13. Samples and Illustrations – Looking to the Bible for Vision
14. Power Tools - Using Technology
15. Scrapers - Using Questions To Get Beneath The Surface
16. Tape Measures – Assessing Progress
17. Apprenticeship - Teaching And Learning By Doing

The book will actually be available in a few weeks but I’m told that orders can be placed through customer service at Loyola Press ($9.95 ea. or $5 ea. for orders of 10 or more) - 800-621-1008.

More to come in the days and weeks ahead!