Our syndicate has been exploring aspects of restorative practices so I found the workshop very useful and interesting. For me relationships was the theme throughout the two days, and how we go about restoring the relationships that have had harm caused unto them. Consideration has to be made for all those who are affected by the harm. So that wasn't just involving who the incident took place with but also who it will affect.
Another point that really stuck with me was the word outcome. What outcome do we want from this discussion? When you... what did you want the outcome to be? I use this more frequently to put the incident into a bigger picture and also it enables children to be reflective on their behaviour. "I just wanted them to play with me", "I was angry and I wanted them to leave me alone".
It also alerted me to remember to constantly use the language of restorative practice and to also stop talking. Sometimes as teachers we put words into the childrens mouths without giving them the time to think it out then respond. Often it's that we see how we want the outcome to be, and we forget to wait or lose patience.
My next steps are to share the prompts with the class so they are aware of the language being used and they can practice responding or thinking about how they would reply. I would also like to share the booklet with the class leaders so they have the tools and strategies when they are asked by their peers to help them solve problems.
Another point that really stuck with me was the word outcome. What outcome do we want from this discussion? When you... what did you want the outcome to be? I use this more frequently to put the incident into a bigger picture and also it enables children to be reflective on their behaviour. "I just wanted them to play with me", "I was angry and I wanted them to leave me alone".
It also alerted me to remember to constantly use the language of restorative practice and to also stop talking. Sometimes as teachers we put words into the childrens mouths without giving them the time to think it out then respond. Often it's that we see how we want the outcome to be, and we forget to wait or lose patience.
My next steps are to share the prompts with the class so they are aware of the language being used and they can practice responding or thinking about how they would reply. I would also like to share the booklet with the class leaders so they have the tools and strategies when they are asked by their peers to help them solve problems.
Hi Asri
ReplyDeleteThat's a good idea to share the prompts with your leaders and get them using the language!
I also think the 2 day PD session helped us to really think about the outcome and ensure that we as teachers are not deciding the outcome for them but they are themselves, by being prompted.
Marcelle