Sharing
You want to ask a classmate a question about their share. What should you do?
Raise a silent hand and ask a quick question.
Wait until group is finished.
Should you use the restroom during counseling group?
Only during if it's an emergency. It's always best to use the restroom prior to group sessions.
This tool requires access to a phone, radio, or computer.
1) Listening to music.
Is it appropriate to talk about any violent video games, movies, or tv shows during group time? Why or why not?
No, if you would like to share about those things, use general information such as the name of the game, but not the specific details of the game.
How long are counseling group sessions?
They are offered weekly for 30-60 minutes.
What order do we go in during group check-in and warmup? Why is this?
Level day order, and based on students who are choosing to earn points and demonstrate expected behaviors.
It's helpful to have appropriate check-ins modeled.
You're feeling tired during group. What's the best choice to continue earning points?
Advocate to stand up.
Advocate for a quick body break.
These objects are often squishy and can be helpful when feeling fidgety or anxious.
1) Squishies/stress balls/stress tools.
You are reflecting on a negative choice you made in the past. How much information should you share?
It's ok to share negative choices and struggles from your past without glamorizing it (no war stories).
What does full-body listening look like during group?
Turning body toward speaker.
Eyes on speaker.
Listening ears.
Voice off.
What is the main purpose of our warm-up questions?
To generate some creative thinking (*cognitive conflict) prior to our group activity or game.
For me to gather information about you.
What should you have on your desk during group activities?
Generally, nothing unless a specific expectation to get classroom items out.
Any tools or items that you have advocated for.
Walking, swimming, jogging, lifting weights, working out, and playing sports are examples of this coping skill.
1) Exercise/movement.
Should you share sensitive information about other people (friends/family)?
No, your shares should focus on yourself.
Not without their permission.
Sometimes, if you want to include details; do not use specific names, locations, or other identifying information.
Should you talk about group shares outside of group time? Why or why not?
No, what is said in group stays in group. Maintaining confidentiality of all group members is important.
We are all expected to respect other people and what they share during group.
You're feeling sad about a question asked in group. What should you do?
Advocate to pass.
Problem solve.
Try to answer, but use general details.
Answer 1:1 with Mr. Westcott.
Why is it expected to turn our desks out when working in group or team-based activities?
It gives you an opportunity to collaborate with peers and test your social skills.
This tool doesn't require any talking. It can be very helpful to get your thoughts out and decompress.
1) Journaling (paper/pencil, phone, computer).
You want to make a joke about someone's share, but you're not sure if it's appropriate. What should you do?
Advocate to staff privately before sharing.
Keep the joke to yourself, as you're unsure how others might perceive it.
Sarcasm and joking are tricky, and certainly not best used during group time.
How should you pass if you are uncomfortable sharing? Why is it ok to pass in group?
Clearly communicate your desire to pass.
"Can I please pass?" "Can you come back to me later?" "Skip me, please."
Some questions can cause us to reflect on challenging situations. Uncomfortable emotions can arise, and it is normal to feel unsure about sharing with the entire class present.
How long should you speak when asked to share?
Generally, 1 to 2 minutes (if you need to discuss anything in more detail a 1:1 session with Mr. Westcott would be best).
During group check-in, a classmate is choosing to disrupt our group setting. What should you do?
Ignore/focus on self and continue to check in.
Advocate for and use individual coping tools/strategies.
This skill can take lots of practice, and involves quieting your mind and creating a sense of calm.
1) Meditating/mindfulness.
You want to share something, but you're not sure if it's appropriate for group. What is the best choice?
Stop and think.
Share something else.
Use general information, not sensitive information.
Ask staff if it's appropriate first.
You disagree with another student's perspective. What should you do?
Keep your comments to yourself.
Use your perspective taking skills and try to understand their perspective by considering things from their side of the street.