Caring adults from agencies across Alabama came together last week for Extended Family for Kids (EFK) Leader Training. Participants spent the day learning to teach, or, more accurately, LEAD, the EFK curriculum. One of the first lessons of the day involved exploring the difference between “teaching” and “leading” a group. EFK is not about lecturing students on what they should be doing, but, through a series of interactive activities, leading students to discover the best ways to handle life’s everyday situations. The distinction between teaching and leading is one of the most challenging parts of learning to serve groups as a facilitator, and developing this skill is crucial to the success of the program, because leading students to find the answers gives them a sense of ownership over the information, and ultimately their behaviors.
Some of the favorite lessons of the training were “You Are Not Alone” and “Emotional Continuum.” “You Are Not Alone” gives children a sense of belonging, and, as one participant commented, “Everyone want to feel they belong.” “Emotional Continuum” is a favorite lesson of children and adults alike. This lesson shows that feelings are normal, natural, and neutral, and that it is possible to feel lots of feelings at the same time. Most importantly, students learn from this lesson how to express their feelings in ways that will not get them into trouble. One trainee said, “I appreciated how practical the training was. I love/appreciate when I’m given instructions for going through the content effectively and ideas for surprises.”
EFK is effective and simple to implement in any group. The curriculum contains nine independent lessons, including all necessary handouts, and requires only basic school supplies like paper and markers. Educators and counselors both appreciated that they felt ready to lead EFK immediately after training. One counselor said of the EFK Leader Training that it is, “Well organized and able to go to school tomorrow to start if I wanted to.”
We always appreciate positive feedback from our training participants and are grateful when they understand the powerful impact EFK can have on children who have a loved one incarcerated. The lessons are practical for children ages kindergarten through 12th grade, and the information is valuable for adults, too, “This workshop is made for kids but during the workshop with adults today, lives were changed!”
If you are interested in bringing Extended Family for Kids Leader Training to your community, visit our website at www.extendedfamilyhelp.org or email us at info@extendedfamilyhelp.org. Extended Family is making a difference, changing one life at a time.
