Circles are a great way to practice restorative practices. They can be used by any group, from the smallest of communities to large organizations. In this article, we will provide you with tips on how to create and run circles for restorative practices.
Choose a Restorative Practices Circle Model
The type of restorative practices circle model you choose will depend on the situation and the people involved. If you’re dealing with a conflict between two people, you may want to try a dyadic circle. If you’re dealing with a larger group, you may want to try a community circle. There are also different models for different age groups. Choose the model that best fits your needs and the needs of those involved.
Set Up the Circle
When setting up a restorative practices circle, it is important to ensure that everyone involved feels comfortable and safe. Choose a space that is large enough for everyone to sit in a circle, with no distractions. Make sure everyone has a chance to speak and be heard, and allow for breaks as needed.
Choose Your Practice
Restorative practices in education are a great way to build community and resolve conflict. There are many different ways to facilitate a circle, so it’s important to choose a practice that feels right for you.
Create a Ritual
When creating a restorative practices circle, it is important to have a ritual to mark the beginning and end of the process. This can help to create a sense of safety and respect among participants. The ritual can be as simple as everyone taking a deep breath before beginning, or lighting a candle to signify the start of the circle.
Celebrate Community
When a community comes together to address conflict, it is an opportunity to celebrate what makes that community strong. Restorative practices circles provide a space for people to listen to one another, share their perspectives, and find common ground. These circles can help build relationships and trust, and they can be an important part of making a community thrive.
Make It Last
When it comes to restorative practices circles, it’s important to make them last. This means creating a space where everyone feels comfortable sharing and participating, and where the facilitator is skilled in keeping the conversation flowing. It’s also important to have realistic expectations for what a circle can achieve. Circles can be a great way to build community and resolve conflict, but they won’t work miracles. With some care and attention, though, they can be an invaluable part of your school or workplace.
Get Feedback from Participants
Restorative practices circles are a great way to get feedback from participants. By holding a circle, you can create an open and safe space for people to share their thoughts and feelings. This is a great way to get honest feedback about your event or program.
Creating and running circles for restorative practices is not difficult. Follow these tips and you will be on your way to creating a circle that helps your community heal and thrive.
