On June 6, 2024, I received some exciting news. I was notified that I was off the year long wait list for coaching. I feel so blessed that I was able to participate in the National Restorative Coaching Program with Ahija last fall. My cohort “graduated” in June so thought I’d share some highlights from the eight, one-hour sessions. Today I’m covering how to begin meetings, a newer book, and a book club.
Top of Heart, Top of Mind
Each session started with Ahija asking me, “What’s on top of your heart or mind?” That question opened our time together with any pressing issues or questions. Ahija was so attentive when I shared ideas. She did an excellent job of summarizing what we discussed and asked relevant questions that made me think. She modeled communicating with others.
Becoming a Trauma-Informed Restorative Educator
For many sessions Ahija offered resources on related topics. One of the first was material from Joe Brummer’s Trauma-Informed Care. A few months ago, I purchased the 2024 book, Becoming a Trauma-Informed Restorative Educator: Practical Skills to Change Culture and Behavior by Joe Brummer and Margaret Thorsborne.
I absolutely love the title. It’s what we as trainers try to train participants in: Becoming Trauma-Informed; Becoming Restorative in our relationships; and Becoming an Educator who uses practical skills. The book is so dense with content, the pages are marked, bent, and filled with my notes, questions and comments.
Future Book Club
I joined the five-week book club offered by the organization Alliance to End Seclusion and Isolation. I haven’t been in a book club since 2011 so I’m really looking forward to it.
If you’re wondering about a different way to start individual or small group meetings, I highly recommended top of heart, top of mind. I also recommend the above book. I’ll keep you updated on the book club.