Page 61 - Meeting with Children Book

P a ge | 59

Using mixed media, symbols and metaphor
Capturing the statements on flip chart pages
The Parent Meeting can occur either in a co-
facilitation format, whereby the roles of child
consultant and mediator/PC are separated, or as a
solo facilitation, where the mediator/PC also serves as
the child consultant.

In circumstances where a co-facilitation occurs, there
is an opportunity for the facilitator to become a scribe
for the process; capturing the discussion under the
headings of the Child and Youth Concerns Scale on
large size flip chart paper in full view of the parents.
In this role the facilitator is in the mode of capturing
the party statement of the children, as described by
all in the room. It can be seen and digested by the
parents for later reflection.

The use of a highly visual recording process, also
draws on the learning styles literature, and creates an
opportunity for people who learn more visually to
remain engaged in the meeting through visual cues.

Finally as has been stated for children and youth, it is
important to acknowledge that the use of non verbal
communication strategies, such as those suggested
for use with children and youth, can be very effective
in creating opportunities for describing feelings and
concepts that are at the time beyond words. This can
include the use the same symbols and metaphors as
were used in the child meetings.