Peer Mediation Training

Training children as peer mediators builds advanced conflict resolution skills and empowers them to help maintain peaceful classroom community.

Objectives

Materials

Instructions

Introduce peer mediation: 'Mediators are people who help others solve their conflicts. Today we're going to train to become peer mediators!'

Teach the mediation process:

1. Ask both people if they want help solving the problem

2. Set ground rules: no interrupting, respectful language, work toward solution

3. Have each person tell their story without interruption

4. Help identify the problem both people share

5. Brainstorm solutions together

6. Choose a solution both people agree to

7. Make a plan and follow up

Practise with scripted scenarios before real mediation. Provide feedback on neutrality, process following, and solution facilitation.

Certify trained mediators with badges or special recognition. Create a mediation schedule or signal for when mediation is needed.

Supervise initial mediations, then gradually release responsibility. Regular check-ins with mediators to process experiences and refine skills.

Educator tip

Not all conflicts are appropriate for peer mediation—bullying, safety concerns, or highly emotional situations need adult intervention. Teach mediators to recognise when to get help.

Assessment

Assess against Early Learning Goals (ELGs). Document evidence of 'expected' or 'exceeding' descriptors. Note: independent application of skills, ability to explain reasoning, and capacity to build on prior learning. Evaluate mediation process following, neutrality maintenance, and successful conflict facilitation.

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