Vince Sanderson is a qualified secondary science teacher who now works for Wales Restorative Approaches Partnership (WRAP). He goes into schools to train teachers, parents and caregivers about the Restorative Approach. The approach is one that Vince describes as a 'way of being.' He explains that it is about building, maintaining and repairing relationships.

There are techniques and tools that adults can apply to enhance their relationships with others. One example is being aware of the words we use. Vince references Dr. John Gottman who observed how people handle conflict. For Vince, separating the behaviour from the person was key and something he is aware of when he speaks to his son. Once people are mindful of this concept, then they can convey to the child that they disagree with the behaviour, however, they are still loved. This will help children's self-esteem and not shame them.

Currently, Vince is creating courses for families in order for them to "have happier relationships." He has done practical work and shares his experiences with others. In the past, Vince has used the book, Fire Child, Water Child: How Understanding the Five Types of ADHD Can Help You Improve Your Child's Self-Esteem and Attention by Stephen Cowan to better understand children's behaviour. In the book, there are specific strategies and activities that parents, caregivers and educators can use to support children.

Vince explains that there is a "correlation between behaviours we see and difficulties outside of school." Therefore there is a difficulty with relationships. Subsequently, strong relationships must be built. Vince suggests ways to improve relationships including Circle Practice.

Vince and I discuss Tony Robbins and how he has applied some of Robbins' techniques in classrooms. One technique is talking with a student about the benefits and consequences about a situation to put things into perspective. Ultimately we want to "increase accountability and responsibility for [children's] actions so they make better choices."

The conversation with Vince was really interesting and insightful. Given that Vince refers to the Restorative Practices as a philosophy, he truly believes that it works and will have a positive long term effect on children.

For more information about the Restorative Practices, go to:

https://restorativewales.org.uk/