120 pages
Interest Age: 5 to 18
2014
ISBN: 9781906531331 Practical, creative and adaptable ideas that will help to foster self-awareness and empathy in children and young people, many of whom have difficulty understanding the feelings of others, resulting in their having little awareness of their own needs and the needs of people around them.
The book is presented in five sections of group activities. Each activity has a tick box to indicate if it is suitable for children, teenagers or both. Includes clear guidelines on application and development, and a sound framework and explanation of creative and playful ways to apply these ideas.
Section 1
- Deals with ways of providing sensory awareness and integration through the use of play and movement. Rhythmic movement is a means of developing physical awareness and self-control, and is important in managing energy and tension. Developing the imagination begins to enable a 'problem-solving' approach.
Section 2
- Addresses the setting of limits and agreeing ground rules. Group members are encouraged to be aware of themselves and others, and to deal with resentments. Participants are encouraged to make personal choices and to practise leadership skills.
Section 3
- Begins with techniques for finding one's voice and being to communicate personal and social needs. The difference between 'reacting and responding' is clarified and issues around 'persuasion' are tackled through role-ploy.
Section 4
- Is about understanding how the past can influence the present in unhelpful ways. Group members are encouraged to build trust and deal with rejection. Stories are used to encourage empathic reactions and the offering of help to others.
Section 5
- Allows participants to re-visit sensory experiences and through role-play, give form to feelings. Consideration is given to family members where there are concerns. The theme of dealing with pressures is on important aspect of work with children and young people today.
Themes covered in the above sections include:
- Sensory awareness and physical control
- Energy management and understanding limits
- Building self-esteem and social skills
- Understanding personal space and safety
- Reacting and responding
- Expressing feelings and emotions
- Listening skills and trust
- Setting goals and coping with change
- Problem solving and acknowledging achievement
- Changing attitudes and behaviours
- Developing a sense of self & identity
- Finding a voice to express needs
- Possible choices & pathways for the future
- Friendships & support
- Letting go of past hurts & moving on.
Photocopiable worksheets are included at the end of the book to develop the work in the different sections, along with ideas for further reading.
CD-ROM included.
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