Dear WSMF Families,
As we enter into the winter thaw and eventually spring blooms, we begin to shift our focus from inward striving to a renewal of our gesture of reaching out to others in our circles. To support this shift, we will be engaging with the theme of Communication throughout the month of March. Your invitation this month is to engage in an activity called the Peace Process. Modeled after Nonviolent Communication principles, this versatile process is appropriate to use as both a conflict-resolution tool and a way of giving positive praise. By allowing individuals to communicate without blame or accusation, situations can be worked through with openness. Below I will share the steps of the process as well as examples of different ways it can be implemented. This feelings inventory may be helpful as you practice at home.
Peace Process for Conflict:
- Step 1: Tell what happened with specifics.
- Step 2: Tell how this made you feel, using one or two feeling words. (This feelings inventory can be helpful.
- Step 3: Say what you needed, but were not getting when this happened.
- Step 4: Make a request that will help the situation get better.
Example:
(Step 1) Today you did not prepare lunch when you said you would. (Step 2) This made me feel frustrated (Step 3) because I had planned to do something else during that time and had to prepare lunch instead. (Step 4) Would you be willing to let me know ahead of time if you will not be able to follow through with a plan?
Peace Process for Praise:
- Step 1: Tell what happened.
- Step 2: Tell how this made you feel, using one or two feeling words.
- Step 3: Say what need was being met for you.
- Step 4: Express your appreciation.
Example:
(Step 1:) This morning you cleaned your room. (Step 2:) This made me feel appreciated and listened to (Step 3:) because I needed your help. (Step 4) Thank you for doing your part.
The better we are able to communicate with each other by expressing our feelings, listening to the needs of others, and working collaboratively to work through problems, the more positive our interactions with the world become. As always, if you have any questions about the process or how to use it, feel free to reach out to me.
Wishing you warm words and an open heart!
Namaste,
Branigan Reed
First Grade Class Teacher, SEL Specialist