As children grow up, it’s natural for them to talk more to their friends. In fact, Mission Australia's Annual Youth Survey* consistently reports that most young people prefer to talk to their friends about their concerns – they may subsequently talk to adults as well, but they talk to their friends first.
Through YouthCARE’s Peer Skills program, students are enabled and empowered to support their friends and peers when issues arise. With a focus on developing listening and problem-solving skills, this capacity-building program enriches students’ social and interpersonal competencies, and promotes school and community supports.
* https://www.missionaustralia.com.au/publications/youth-survey
Peer Skills can be delivered with students in mid to upper primary and into high school. The number of students or participants involved will depend on your purpose for running the program and which activities you choose to use.
Larger groups may require additional facilitators, depending on student ratios. Program facilitators can be teachers, chaplains or youth workers, however anyone who has completed the training course can deliver the program.
YouthCARE’s Peer Skills program uses an experiential learning approach underpinned by the principles of enablement and child-centred practice. Students engage in games and activities and then reflect on their experiences through debriefing, drawing out key themes and applications.
Students cover the following topics:
• What are Peer Skills?
• Values and Attitudes
• Listening and Responding
• Problem Solving
• Looking After Yourself
• Getting Help
Peer Skills can be used for a variety of purposes, including the following:
Peer Skills can be delivered over six individual sessions, or as a one or two day workshop, depending on what fits into your school or organisation’s timetable, and your purpose for running the program.
ACTIVITY: Values Continuum
In this activity, students will reflect on a variety of statements about issues that affect young people and how their values impact responses.
Students stand along a continuum and indicate if they agree or disagree with the statement, or if they are unsure. Participants practise listening to other points of view, and then discuss how their own values can impact their ability to help and listen to others.
Interested in facilitating Peer Skills? Our facilitator training course runs over two days. Here are the upcoming scheduled training dates:
Time:
8:30am-4:30pm
Location:
YouthCARE Head Office
Suite 17/162 Colin Street
West Perth
* Morning tea and lunch are provided.
Two-day Training Course (one facilitator) plus Peer Skills Resource Kit
Cost: $800
Additional Facilitator Training (per person, from the same school/organisation)
Cost: $425
YouthCARE’s Peer Skills program aims to:
Enhance the capacity of young people to relate effectively with each other, the adults in their lives and the wider community.
Give participants the confidence they need to offer assistance to their peers if they are facing difficulties or problems.
Promote personal competence, emotional intelligence and resilience.
Help young people care for both themselves and others.
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