Restorative Practices: The Purpose of Circles
For centuries, communities have used circles to share information and pass down traditions, rituals, and cultural norms. Circles are not new, but did you know they can also be used to foster community in the classroom, build relationships, provide clear expectations for behavior, and teach much-needed content? In fact, the International Institute for Restorative Practices (IIRP) suggests that circles should be used proactively most of the time rather than only after a conflict has occurred. Check out this guide from IIRP with a few circle ideas to get your year started in a PROACTIVE way.
Greet your students at the door
Many educators, including Harry Wong, and behavioral management systems like PBIS and Capturing Kids' Hearts have highlighted this simple strategy. Greeting students at the door is transformative in promoting positive relationships and fostering social-emotional learning. Click on the link for a resource from the Center on PBIS: Positive Greeting at the Door.
