Elementary workshops are one hour classroom workshops facilitated by three CAP facilitators. Using role-plays and guided group discussion, the classroom workshop trains children to recognize potentially dangerous situations, and to make effective use of the options available to them when dealing with such a situation. CAP emphasizes self assertion, peer support and communication with a trusted adult as prevention strategies. CAP approaches the question of assault within the framework of basic human rights.
The opening discussion of “rights” is followed by three role-plays. Each one is followed by discussion. These role-plays represent the most common assault experiences a child might encounter: child against child (the playground bully),adult stranger against child, and assault involving an adult the child knows.The role-plays are used to provide situations from which children and brainstorm successful strategies. Preschool CAP ClipEach role-play is performed twice. First the child is shown as a victim.Then, after a “brainstorming session” the role-play is redone as a “success story”,incorporating positive prevention techniques. Children are given an opportunity to participate in supportive roles to practice positive behavior. These role-plays are conducted by certified adult CAP facilitators (Note: CAP never allows children participating in their programs to be placed in a negative or scary role even if they are only acting.)
In a final role play, the classroom teacher is invited to play her/himself as a supportive adult responding to a child’s request for help. This role-play gives children an opportunity to visualize what would happen if they needed to talk to someone about a problem. It gives a clear message to children that their teachers care and are there to offer support.
Following a brief summary, children are told that CAP facilitators will be available for further discussion. We have found that many children seek out workshop facilitators to talk about a variety of issues. The emphasis during this review time is primarily reinforcing skills learned during the classroom workshop and strengthening children’s belief in their rights to be SAFE, STRONG and FREE.
