Rabbi Moshe Gans is the author of books on education and personal development. ArtScroll/Mesorah published Make Me, Don’t Break Me in 1994 as a practical guide for parents and teachers. Its Hebrew edition, La’azor Bli Lishbor, is recorded by the National Library of Israel.
More than securing obedience
Motivation is a central subject of his educational writing. The aim is not only to get a child to follow an adult’s instruction immediately, but also to help the child understand the value of the task and gradually act independently. His discussion includes praise, rewards, personal willingness and differences in temperament, drawing on situations at home and in the classroom and considering them through Jewish tradition.
Success and personal growth
His other book, Success!, was published by ArtScroll in 1996. It addresses bringing out a person’s strengths, confidence and overcoming obstacles. Our magazine presents ideas attributed to Rabbi Gans in a series on motivation, from preparing for the school year and considering obedience to different forms of encouragement. These articles introduce his approach through particular educational situations.
The author’s articles in our magazine
- Motivation - The Third Method - Persuasion
- Motivation - The Second Method - A Reward After All
- Motivation - The First Method - Praise
- Motivation - What About Obedience?
- Motivation – Coercion or Desire?
- Motivation - Getting Ready for the New School Year
- Motivation - The Fourth Method - Constructive Criticism