Caroline McGrath began her studies in Dublin on an analytical science degree. After qualifying with a Post Graduate Certificate in Education she worked as an early years teacher and lectured in early childhood studies. She achieved the Postgraduate Diploma in Professional Studies in Education (Specific Learning Difficulties/Dyslexia) and was awarded the Hornsby Certificate of Professional Practice. She completed a master’s and a doctorate and writes from first-hand experience teaching.
"""This is a detailed, thorough and comprehensive guide to teaching mathematics to young children. It is reflective and philosophical, yet also full of practical advice and examples from someone who works with young children. McGrath sees teaching as a professional thinking craft, backed by pertinent theories and principles, which are freely quoted throughout this book. She encourages teachers to use thoughtful, and thought-provoking questioning in their classes. That implies using the important, if not crucial, skill of listening to your pupils. There are some delightful nuggets in this book. I particularly liked the comparison of emotions to a spectrum of colours from sage green satisfaction to mid-red fear to dark black dread. McGrath advocates teaching a range of methods and perceptions to her learners, encouraging metacognition and reflection. Reading about this makes us, the readers also reflect on our own practices. She also emphasises the developmental nature of mathematics and illustrates this with a comprehensive explanation of all the components of a typical maths curriculum as used by children up to the age of around 12 years."" Steve Chinn, Visiting Professor, University of Derby, UK, Author of The Trouble with Maths and More Trouble with Maths"