Tried and True Tips for Trainers and Facilitators
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It's okay not to know everything there is to know about being a parent. As a matter of fact, it's better! We don't want to come across as being "perfect"; we want to be perceived as human, with our own struggles and a desire to improve. |
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When a group member expresses a parenting concern, rather than rushing to be the "great problem-solver", ask the group for ideas if parents have a common interest in the issue. Create a suggestion circle and ask the group for their thoughts. Help them generate their own solutions! |
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Have parents role-playing reading children's books. Have one be the parent and one be the child and then reverse roles. |
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Give a lots of positives when participants contribute ideas, even if you do not agree. You can always say something like "thank you for your thoughts". |
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Sing, dance, and do art projects. Let's reconnect learning, play and reflection! |
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As often as possible, use participants' names. This helps them feel included and validated and helps group members to become acquainted. |
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Our groups represent many diverse backgrounds. Get to know participants' parenting issues, interests and cultural norms. Build opportunities into the program to share and explore these. |
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Snacks are good! Encourage the host agency to provide goodies for those stretch breaks and networking opportunities – community building moments. |
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Remember, if you are talking more than the participants, you are lecturing NOT facilitating. |
If you have a "tried and true" tip that you would like to share with the LAPS family, please send it our way and we will be sure to include your idea(s) in upcoming newsletters. We can all learn from each other! |
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