Restorative Circles

Restorative Circles

Here's a children's activity guide for Social Development - Conflict Resolution - Restorative Circles:

Introduction:

Restorative circles provide a structured and inclusive approach to conflict resolution, allowing children to engage in open dialogue, build empathy, and restore relationships. This activity guide will help you facilitate restorative circles that promote social development and conflict resolution skills.

Activity 1:Circle Formation

Materials needed: Chairs or cushions.

Instructions:

        1. Arrange chairs or cushions in a circle to create a comfortable and inclusive space for the restorative circle.

        2. Invite the children to take a seat in the circle, ensuring that everyone has an equal opportunity to participate.

        3. Explain the purpose of the restorative circle, emphasizing the importance of active listening, respect, and confidentiality.

Activity 2: Circle Guidelines and Agreements

Materials needed: Flipchart or whiteboard, markers.

Instructions:

       1. Discuss and co-create circle guidelines and agreements with the children. These guidelines may include speaking one at a time, using respectful language, and maintaining confidentiality.

       2. Write down the agreed-upon guidelines on a flipchart or whiteboard for everyone to see.

       3. Encourage the children to take ownership of the guidelines and remind them of their importance throughout the restorative circle.

Activity 3:Circle Keeper and Talking Piece

Materials needed: Talking piece (e.g., small object)

Instructions:

        1. Explain the role of the circle keeper, who facilitates the restorative circle and ensures that everyone has an opportunity to speak. Rotate the role of the circle keeper among the children.

        2. Introduce the concept of a talking piece, which is passed around the circle to indicate who has the floor to speak.

        3. Pass a talking piece (e.g., a small object) around the circle, allowing each child to hold it when sharing their thoughts and experiences.

Activity 4: Conflict Sharing and Reflection

Materials needed: Conflict scenario cards.

Instructions:

       1. Prepare conflict scenario cards that present common conflicts that children may encounter. Examples include disagreements over sharing toys, resolving a misunderstanding, or dealing with hurt feelings.

       2. Distribute a conflict scenario card to each child or read the scenario aloud for the group.

       3. Invite the children to share their thoughts and feelings related to the conflict scenario, using the talking piece to ensure everyone has a chance to speak.

       4. Encourage active listening and respectful responses from the other children.

       5. Facilitate a reflection on the impact of the conflict, the emotions involved, and the potential for repairing relationships.

 

Activity 5: Restorative Questions and Dialogue

Materials needed: Restorative questions prompt cards.

Instructions:

       1. Prepare restorative questions prompt cards that encourage reflection, empathy, and understanding. Examples include "How were you affected by the conflict?" and "What can be done to make things right?"

       2. Distribute a restorative question prompt card to each child or read them aloud for the group.

       3. Encourage the children to respond to the questions, using the talking piece to ensure everyone has an opportunity to share.

       4. Facilitate a dialogue that promotes empathy, understanding, and the exploration of potential solutions or actions for repairing relationships.

Activity 6: Restorative Action Planning

Materials needed: Action planning sheets, pens.

Instructions:

       1. Provide each child with an action planning sheet and a pen.

       2. Ask them to reflect on the restorative circle experience and the insights gained from the dialogue.

       3. Encourage them to write or draw about their intentions for taking restorative actions, such as apologizing, making amends, or finding ways to prevent similar conflicts in the future.

       4. Gather the children for a group discussion, allowing them to share their action plans and commitments.

Conclusion:

Restorative circles provide children with a structured and supportive environment to engage in conflict resolution, build empathy, and restore relationships. Through these activities, children learn the importance of active listening, respect, and taking responsibility for their actions.

Remember to create a safe and non-judgmental space where children feel comfortable sharing their thoughts and experiences. Enjoy the restorative circles and celebrate the children's growth in their social development and conflict resolution skills!