Wagonload of Compassion
Share individual stories of people in need. Identify what everyone can contribute. Where could we find the needed materials? Together as a group, deliver the donated items to a nearby…
What Should We Do?
Show pictures and/or video of certain situations at school and in the surrounding neighborhood. Examples include: seeing garbage on the floor, an elderly person dropping their cane, a person not…
Thankenstein
Adult writes at the top of a blank paper, “I’m so grateful that if I were a monster created by a mad scientist, my name would be Thankenstein.” Give each…
Technology Blackouts
Set aside times during the day when no one in the family touches technology. Turn off all cell phones, televisions, computers, etc. Youth who are always engaged in technology are…
Where in the World?
Show youth a variety of pictures of celebrations involving young people from around the world. Place cut-outs of known children/students into the celebration picture (make sure to rotate the pictures).…
Stoplight
To help young people deal with feelings of anger and frustration, try using the visual of a stoplight: green is calm, yellow is frustrated, and red is angry. Ask them…
Snack Meditation
Opportunities to share healthy snacks together builds community. Everyone begins eating together, often marking the time with a simple shared message. Parents or teachers can assist our youth in appreciating…
Web of Life
Youth sit in a circle, often at a transition point in the day. Holding a ball of yarn, they share one thing (something they like to do, someplace they have…
Silent Signals
Adults often talk too much and our youth tune out. A silent signal speaks louder than words. Smile and point to the shoes that need to be picked up; use…
Shared Values and Commitments
What do we want to see in our community, classroom or home? Identify shared rules together. Call them “peace actions” or ask individuals what they want to call them. Individuals…