Relationships and Restorative Practices:

Relationships are so very core to having a strong healthy wellbeing-focused climate and culture. This week I was privileged to get to work with the staff thinking about how we are implementing Restorative Practices into CHPS culture.

Restorative Practices (RP) is a social science that looks directly at relationships in a community context.

One way our teachers and staff have been committed to implementing restorative practices is by using circles as a tool for relationship building. A circle is so powerful because by nature it is an empowerer and equaliser for all individuals participating. Everyone is equally distant from the centre, and on the same level, and everyone gets an equal chance to speak. Those who are usually quieter have the power to share their voice in a safe space.

In this setting students can share their thoughts and feelings, and make connections, that may not have otherwise come about. Students also learn the importance of listening and naturally grow in empathy for classmates they may not have otherwise paid attention to.

Just as there is power in building relationships in circles at school, there is also power in using circles at home. Circle time is easy and can be used for many reasons. All you need is to organise your family/ community into a circle shape and go around sharing thoughts. You can use a talking piece, to help know who is speaking (and those not holding the talking piece are listening). You can solve a problem in a circle, or just spend time together. You can spend time in reflection or in anticipation, or deep thought.

Below are links to more information on circle time:

Restorative Practices at Home- Jeffco Restorative Practices

A Circle Activity for Families – School Culture Solutions

Family Circles (Video) – Pathways to Restorative Communities

Helping Hands

Don't forget, if students are feeling lonely at playtimes or in need of a friend, our Wellbeing Captains and Helping Hands Leaders can offer friendship and some structured play activities every Recess, in and around the Wellbeing Garden.

Students are welcome to visit the Wellbeing Garden at other times too, for some quieter play activities or just because it's a lovely place to be!

Peaceful Kids for Juniors, Terms 3 & 4

I will be offering the Peaceful Kids Program to Junior students (Years 1 & 2) in Terms 3 and 4. Peaceful Kids is a mindfulness and positive psychology-based program, designed to lessen anxiety and increase resilience in children. We have successfully offered the program to students across the school in past years.

If you are interested in your child (Y1 & 2 only) being part of this program, please indicate your Expression of Interest by clicking on the link below before July 10th.

Cheyenne Mason- On Behalf of the Wellbeing & Culture Team

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