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Why we strive to implement
Restorative Practices
Why we strive to implement
Restorative Practices
To build community that honors human dignity, healthy relationships, and accountability to one another. Restorative approaches are an alternative to punitive based systems that contribute to mass incarceration.
Restorative approaches require a paradigm shift by teachers and school staff; it is a way of being more than a way of doing.
A way to incorporate restorative approaches is through circles. When we sit in circle everyone can see each other and when we use a talking piece every person has an equal voice. Effective circles hold space for fair process through engagement, explanation, and voluntary cooperation. These practices come to us from indigenous cultures that value community over individualism. You may use circles in staff meetings, with groups, when providing content in community settings, mediation, and more.
circle_techniques_and_activities .pdfPracticing Affective Statements
Practicing Affective Statements
One simple way to be more restorative is to use affective statements which encourage and model empathy. They are used to acknowledge both positive and negative interactions without blame or criticism. The basic format looks like this:
When I see/hear… (observation) …
I feel… (emotion or sensation rather than thought) …
because I need/value … (rather than a preference or a specific action).
(as appropriate) Would you be willing to … (request for concrete action rather than demand)?
Impromptu Conversations
Impromptu Conversations
ages 4-11
ages 4-11
Impromptu ConversationsImpromptu Conversations
Impromptu Conversations
ages 12-18
ages 12-18
Impromptu conversations are another tool of restorative practices. Following this format when discussing an incident with a student allows them to process what happened, how the behavior impacted others, and empowers them to decide what they can do to make it right which ultimately gives them ownership.
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