# Circle of Trust Discussion Guide This guide is designed to help you facilitate a thoughtful and respectful talking circle. Use the following open-ended questions and prompts to encourage students to share their thoughts and experiences about trust and empathy. --- ## Guidelines for Facilitating the Discussion - **Set the Tone:** Remind students about the purpose of the circle: to share, listen, and understand each other. - **Respectful Listening:** Encourage students to listen carefully and wait their turn to speak. - **No Interruptions:** Ensure that no one interrupts another person while they are speaking. - **Empathy First:** Emphasize the importance of empathizing with others' feelings.

## Opening Questions 1. **What does trust mean to you?** - Prompt: Can you think of a time when someone trusted you, or you trusted someone?

2. **How do you feel when someone listens to you carefully?** - Prompt: Why do you think it’s important to feel heard?

3. **What qualities make someone a good friend or trusted partner?** - Prompt: How do these qualities help build a safe space for sharing?

## Storytelling Prompts 1. **Share a Personal Story:** - Ask students to share a story about a time they felt trusted, or when they helped someone feel trusted.

2. **Discuss a Positive Experience:** - What was one experience where you felt really listened to? How did that make you feel?

## Follow-Up Questions 1. **Reflect on Empathy:** - How might you feel if you were not listened to? Why is it important to show empathy?

2. **Encouraging Growth:** - How can we practice being better listeners in our everyday lives?

3. **Group Reflection:** - How does sharing our experiences in a circle help us understand each other better?

## Wrap-Up Discussion - **Group Reflection:** Ask the group, "What is one thing you learned today about trust and listening?" - **Closing Thought:** Encourage students to think of one way they can help someone feel safe and listened to this week.

This discussion guide aims to nurture an environment of mutual respect, empathy, and trust. Use it to steer the conversation and ensure every student feels valued and heard.

Susan McNamara

1 Lessons

Circle of Trust

Susan McNamara

1 Lessons

Circle of Trust