It is no secret that schools are important places where students learn, grow, and find their future. However, when it comes to child care, educators often find themselves with difficult decisions to make about how to handle disputes, discipline students, and provide positive reinforcement. This is where restorative practices can come in to play.
Restorative practices are methods that emphasize dialogue, empathy, and conflict resolution over physical punishment or other forms of discipline. They promote a healthy work environment and improve the overall emotional well-being of students.
There are different restorative practices that can be used in school. Some common practices include:
Witnessing
Witnessing a dispute or issue in its entirety can increase empathy and understanding. It can also create a space in which conflicts can be resolved.
Communicating
Communication can establish a clear and concise understanding of what is happening, as well as to create a safe and comfortable environment for both parties.
Holding
Holding someone accountable creates a sense of responsibility and ownership. It can also help to improve communication as well as to reduce the possibility of further conflict.
Reducing Violence
Reducing violence in the school setting is a key part of restorative practices. It can be challenging to create a safe and healthy work environment when members of the school community are violent. Ways to do this include creating a safe and secure space, providing training for school staff members on how to handle disputes peacefully, and providing resources such as bicycles, books, and movies that can help reduce violence.
Restorative practices can be a powerful way to improve the emotional well-being of students. They can reduce the possibility of disputes, create a safe and healthy work environment, and improve communication. They promote a sense of community in a school setting.
