This can be a very valuable and eye-opening exercise that can be done with all ages, child to adult. There are many definitions of peace in the world, some academic, others emotional, and many in between. The purpose of asking people their definition is to get them to reflect on the concept and what it …
Have children sit or stand in a circle. The group counts from one to ten. Anyone can say a number, but if two people say a number at the same time, everyone has to start again from the beginning. This can be difficult, but it is worth persisting. It builds concentration, togetherness and awareness of …
These are promises people make to each other about how to act toward one another. They create shared accountability to outcomes. Find contract templates online or craft them together as a family or class with categories/sections that highlight the needs and wants of the community, the commitments made to one another, and the consequences for …
Youth draw a map that identifies relationships people have with each other. From that map, they identify key decision-makers as well as people that might be missing or under-represented. They can take a look at where the power is held and discuss if all people identified have a voice. In an effort to more completely …
After exploring some of the many facets of representative democracy, including voting, representation, free speech, assembly etc., youth identify ways to: a) participate and connect with other voices and citizens in their community; b) challenge our democracy to grow in terms of equality, fairness, and social justice; and c) serve others in their community in …
Ensure broad participation and diversity of representation in developing classroom, family, or community action plans. Have youth think about casting the largest possible net to gather supporters, stakeholders, resources, and collaborators for their projects. Draw a net and share with others who and what is in their net and why.
Identify a problem-solving journey (personal, local, national or global) that you would like to undertake. Imagine you are in a problem-solving canoe, heading toward successful resolution or transformation of your problem/conflict. Evaluate who should be in your canoe and why, and what tools you will need for a successful journey.
A collaborative outdoor activity in which youth are challenged to build a shelter with a limited number and type of materials (ie. no more than 20 items) and within a designated amount of time. They must work in small groups, and all opinions are welcome and encouraged. The shelter does not need to be “attractive” …
Create laminated pictures or drawings of various needs and wants, or have the items on hand. Have youth toss the items in a “want” bucket and a “need” bucket. Once the items are in the buckets, have them gather the wants and needs separately into two categories, writing them out or drawing them. Next, have …
This is a fun game that emphasizes clear communication, listening skills, and teamwork. Choose a large indoor or outdoor area and divide youth into two groups. You will need blindfolds for every person except for two. Place the groups at opposite ends of the space, and all people wear a blindfold except for one on …