The Basic Guidelines of Facilitation

Regardless of the type of program or workshop, facilitation is important because it acts as a scaffold for children's learning and skill development. There is a difference between being guided and being commanded and children can easily pick up on the two. The following is a list of general tips on how to be an effective facilitator for children:

1. Understand the group

Being mindful of the age group and cultural background can help you set the type of language and approach necessary to clearly communicate and connect with the group. Simple icebreakers and games can efficiently engage the group and create a comforting atmosphere.

2. Set the goals and purpose

Always keep in mind why the program is important and what do you want your audience to take away from the experience. This will be your anchor for times when the discussion strays off topic and the focus of what is being done is lost.

3. Ask open-ended questions

Rather than posing Yes or No questions, open-ended questions will help you understand the thinking process of the child and gives you the opportunity to guide them towards the goal of the program.

4. Learn from each other

Everyone offers a specialized set of skills and experiences that can be shared and taught between the group. This diversity should be embraced and taken advantage of. Every art program will need stimulation, imagination, and creation in order to flourish.

5. Model

Concrete demonstrations can provide inspiration and guidelines for children. However, be cautious that children do not mimic your model or each other's work. One way of avoiding this is by not completing the model and ask the children for their suggestions on how to complete it.

6. Adapt & Accommodate

This branches off of understanding the group and looking out for anyone who may need special assistance. There may be occasions where altering teaching approaches, materials or the physical environment will be necessary for all members of the group to feel included.