Restorative Circles

Restorative circles provide powerful alternatives to punitive discipline and build stronger community.

• Framework: IPC
• Unit: Champions of Character
• Learning area: Socio-Emotional
• Level: Level 3

Objectives

• Participate in restorative circle practices
• Address harm through restorative processes
• Build community through circle practices

Materials

• Talking piece
• Circle protocols
• Restorative questions

Instructions

Introduce circle practices: sitting in a circle, using a talking piece, speaking from the heart, listening with respect. Practice community-building circles for regular connection. When harm occurs, use restorative circles: What happened? Who was affected? What needs to happen to make things right? Experience the power of being heard and making amends.

Educator tip

Regular community-building circles make restorative circles more effective when needed. Circles should be part of routine, not just discipline.

Assessment

Observe circle participation, quality of restorative process, and community impact.

More from Champions of Character

• Growth Portfolio Assembly
• Peer Teaching
• Future Self Letter
• Character Ambassador Program
• Character Graduation
• I Love Me!
• I Can DO it!
• Story Book Listen