Tip #2: Create a Safe Environment

Closely related to Tip #1, creating a safe environment is important to having students trust in the process of self-examination. In many cases, the modules may lead students to bring up topics that result in emotional responses. Good facilitation suggests that measures for creating a safe and trusting environment must be in place. Teachers should remind students that, if they find themselves responding or reacting emotionally to any topic or activity, they should seek out a trusted adult in a timely way, either within the school or at home. It may be you, the facilitator, but it need not be. Students should also know that there is no expectation that they share their feelings or thoughts with the group – opening up in groups is not a requirement and they should know this.

Facilitators should, during and in the hours and days after each module, monitor students for noticeable changes in behaviour, including the following:

• Becoming easily agitated, emotional, and overly sensitive
• Experiencing difficulty sleeping or carrying out day-to-day activities
• Mentioning that the topics discussed are interfering with their other thoughts

 Should any worrisome behaviours develop, the school counsellor should be contacted for support and resources.