Active listening is really the application of the Golden Rule and perhaps the most critical skill for resolving conflict. To know how to listen to someone else, think about how you would want to be listened to. While the ideas are largely intuitive, it might take some practice to develop (or re-develop) the skills.

This is an activity to teach conflict resolution strategies. In groups of three, one student clenches his/her fist. As a team the other two students need to figure out a way to unclench this student’s fist. Give them thirty seconds to figure it out.

This short assessment is a great way to take stock of your communication style and its consequences. As written, this is appropriate for older youth or adults, including parents. However, the questions can easily be re-written to speak in the language of your group, whatever their age. Have individuals share in pairs or triads. Debrief by asking what new information or insight assessment offers.

In this conflict resolution activity, student will find different people for each category and write their name in the box where it applies. Feel free to talk to people about each topic and try to get BINGO!”

This activity is about learning to avoid emotional volcanic eruptions and their consequences. Learning to control emotions takes intention, planning and practice.

SLANT is a management tool for teachers that encourages Positive Non-Verbal Behavior and Active Listening.