Some children have more specialized needs but their concerns are similar to those of other students. These children come together to work through their common concerns. These groups require parental permission and groups are formed based on student need. Groups are usually made up with less than eight students in the same grade level and last 6-8 weeks. Group times are scheduled during the school day at a time that will impact the least amount of instructional time. Many groups are held during lunch periods.
Opportunities to participate in small groups, covering a variety of topics such as family change/divorce, grief, self-esteem, friendship, etc. are offered throughout the school year. Students may be invited to join a small group during the course of the school year. Each year is a bit different and the needs of the current groups usually dictate what types of groups are offered. I will always ask for written parent permission before including a student in a small counseling group. If you feel your child would benefit from participation in a group counseling experiences please contact me.
Confidentiality is an important part of small group work, but it can be a difficult concept for kids. In order to avoid the problems that arise when students go home and tell their parents they can't share anything about group because "it's a secret," I usually explain it like this: each student can feel free to share what the topic was in group or what he or she said in group but not what other students have shared. Small groups are for sharing and problem-solving and all students should feel safe in their group.