A reflection activity that can be done as part of a family meeting, intervention, restorative justice session, or other time in which a “big picture” outlook is desired. Typically done in a small group of people that have love and concern for another group member. For example, a child undergoing a significant change such as …
Learn about Ho‘oponopono, the Hawaiian system for ‘setting it right,’ and restoring individual and community harmony and balance. It promotes acts of healing interpersonal conflicts and is relationship-centered and not agreement-centered. It often involves forgiveness. During Ho‘omalu, practitioners sit in solitude and gather strength prior to speaking one’s true feelings. With all family members working …
Each participant explores the same time or event in history from the perspective of a different person or group. Individuals then come together and share their perspectives in order to have a whole and multidimensional portrait of the historical period or event.
Project a slide or make a poster listing or showing in pictures a wide range of emotions and feelings (brave, uncomfortable, confident, jealous, peaceful, disappointed, safe, strong, sorry, etc….). Ask youth to pick two different emotions that describe them today – one emotion they show on the surface, and another emotion they keep on the …
Consider the benefits of establishing and maintaining a garden….. time with nature, cultivation of living plants, growing of edible foods, time to reflect, and many others. A garden, large or small, can be created in the earth, in containers, in a greenhouse, on a window ledge, or in your own inventive space. The idea is …
Research and examine the different contemporary and indigenous systems for resolving conflicts. Form teams of problem-solvers representing the various systems. Each team is given a group challenge with a conflict at the center, and they endeavor to resolve the conflicts in culturally responsive ways. They then debrief with each other what they experienced and observed. …
Keep a journal with writings and/or artwork to record and express what you are most thankful for in your life. There are many small things that are easy to take for granted. This is a good way to recognize and therefore appreciate what we have, so that we may share our talents with others. Suggestion …
Make efforts to use language and references that are not limited to only one gender, for example, “How are you guys doing today?” or “Firemen are so brave.” Strive to use language that is more inclusive and respectful of the many roles that both genders play, while also lessening the continuation of stereotypes.
Critically reflect on the role gender played in a particular situation. Gender critiques should be visited when reading history, current literature, looking at current events, etc. Were both genders engaged, invited and empowered? If not, why? Why is this important?
A family, a classroom, a school or a community gets together to envision the future they desire. Collectively draw, paint, or write out the family, school or community that everyone wants. Who is there? What is there? How do people problem solve? How do people share resources? How do people work with one another? How …
