Jim Donovan conducts a child-centered rather than program-centered classroom. His fifth graders are often problem children but his techniques are useful for all children. He tries to help students develop respect for themselves and others, expand their interest in life, overcome emotional and learning problems, clarify values, and develop positive attitudes. Donovan attacks problems on an individual basis, but his social studies unit on divorce grew from the realization that more than half of this students are affected by the lack of one or both parents. Developing the whole child, not dealing only with problems, is the purpose behind his attempts to develop self-esteem by providing low-risk challenges that lead to success. Getting along with others, good personal habits, and widened horizons contribute to the development of the whole person too. Through dramatic projects, role playing, reading to first graders, and self-directed free time, Donovan tries to implement his goals. The child-centered approach used in his class may give other teachers ideas to adapt in their own classrooms. (JH)