Fri, March 10, 2023
9:00 am - 12:00 pm

VIRTUAL: The Power of Circles in OST

Do you want to help youth process their emotions so they can better handle situations that arise? Do youth in your program need a way to connect and reflect so they feel like they belong? Circles in the OST environment can help build the relationships and skills youth need to support one another and successfully face challenges. This training will go over the basics and show you, step by step, how to facilitate meaningful circles with youth in your program.

CEUs: Upon successful completion of this training, the participant will earn 3 clock hours (.3 CEUs) of training. 

Training Objectives:  

Participants will: 

  1. Define the components of effective circle practices in OST
  2. Explain the ways in which circles can be used with youth to meet various needs
  3. Develop a plan to facilitate a meaningful circle with youth

 

Core Competencies Addressed  

CONTENT AREA TWO- LEARNING ENVIRONMENTS AND CURRICULUM 

Skills and Competencies: Physical Environment and Activities 

Apply- G. Creates environments and experiences to value, affirm, and respect diverse needs, abilities, experiences, and backgrounds.

CONTENT AREA FOUR- RELATIONSHIPS AND INTERACTIONS WITH CHILDREN AND YOUTH  

Skills and Competencies: Enhancing Group Experiences 

Identify- D. Identifies child/youth abilities and corresponding positive guidance techniques to support successful group experiences.

Apply- C. Plans and guides group activities to teach children and youth cooperation and collaboration.

CONTENT AREA FIVE- YOUTH ENGAGEMENT VOICE AND CHOICE 

Skills and Competencies 

Apply- A. Encourages youth to express their ideas and feelings support healthy development, meaningful relationships, and program quality.

CONTENT AREA SIX- EQUITY AND INCLUSION

Skills and Competencies: Inclusive and Accessible Physical and Social Spaces 

Apply- A. Creates an inclusive, welcoming, and respectful environment for all.

 

Primary QIS Scales Addressed  

Safe Environment  

I-E.: Creating Safe Space- Staff provide a safe and welcoming environment

Supportive Environment

II-G: Emotion Coaching- Staff prompt young people to be aware of and constructively handle their emotions

Interactive Environment 

III-K.: Sense of Belonging- Youth have opportunities to develop a sense of belonging

III-L.: Fostering Teamwork- Staff provide opportunities to collaborate and work cooperatively with others

III-M.: Promoting Responsibility and Leadership- Staff provide young people with opportunities to grow in responsibility and leadership

III-N.: Cultivating Empathy- Staff support young people in practicing empathy skills