Tips & Thingsto Keepin Mindfor Youth Facilitators
Creating Safe Spaces
Set Group Norms: Establishing group guidelines sets clear expectations about respect, confidentiality, and inclusivity to encourage openness Build Trust: Spend time building rapport with the group to foster a sense of safety and belonging.
Understanding Existing Power Structures
Observe Hierarchies: Be mindful of implicit or explicit power hierarchies among group members (e.g., social status, athletic ability, or peer influence).
Understand Community/Cultural Context: Understand the broader community dynamics and cultural norms that influence power dynamics. Including relationships with authority figures, socio-economic factors, and inter-group histories
Maintaining Relationships
Create Shared Activities and Projects: Engaging with activities outside of talking contributes to creating a cohesive group (e.g., creating a video, creating a mural for the community, ice breaker and/or improv theatre activities, a group hike).
Encouraging Authentic Conversations
Ask Open-Ended Questions: Facilitate discussions that allow participants to share their thoughts and feelings without judgment
Model Vulnerability: Show willingness to share your own experiences (appropriately) to inspire openness. Address Tensions: Don’t shy away from addressing power struggles or conflicts when they arise; use them as opportunities for learning and growth
Being Intentional in Group Formation
Diverse Representation: Aim for a mix of personalities, backgrounds, and perspectives to enrich the group dynamic Balance Power: Consider how to structure the group to minimize power imbalances, perhaps through smaller group discussions or rotating leadership roles.
Adapt to the Group’s Needs
Stay Flexible: Be prepared to adjust your approach based on the group's dynamics and feedback
Empower Participants: Encourage participants and young people to take ownership of the group process and outcomes
