Using Motional Program Activities with a Larger Group

Motional Programs, designed to support 1:1, small group, and whole class interventions, are a powerful tool for addressing Emotional Wellbeing and Mental Health needs. Before embarking on a Program for a small group, it's crucial to complete a Groupshot. This provides a comprehensive view of the group's wellbeing and readiness to learn, equipping you with the necessary insights to tailor your approach effectively.

There are two crucial principles to hold in mind when using a Motional program and the activities suggested:

Flexibility

Motional Activities are not rigid templates but flexible starting points designed to be adapted to the unique needs of the group. Your professional judgment and skills are key in this process, empowering you to make the necessary adjustments to ensure the activity is a meaningful and effective experience for each individual within the group. Motional's activities can be used for children and students of all ages. However, it is important for adults to engage with them using age-appropriate and respectful language. This might include rebranding the activity, e.g. Face-Painting may become Stage Make-up or Camouflage. Additionally, the adult should be aware of the part of the brain the children are operating from. It is crucial to consider whether the Social Defence subdomains (RAGE, FEAR, PANIC/GRIEF) are predominant or if the children have the capacity to use Executive Function skills.

Environment and Relationship

The activity is the ‘hook’ on which we ‘hang the advice’ in Motional. What we mean by this is that the advice is the really important bit. How we are with children is far more important than what we do. Remember, the relationship and environment are making the biggest difference.

Additional considerations

When working with a large group of children, it's crucial to stress the importance of differentiation. This is just as important as it is in a maths lesson. The adult needs to be aware of the diverse needs within the group and be responsive to them.

The adult plays a pivotal role in setting the emotional tone and creating a safe environment where boundaries are clearly defined and maintained compassionately and effectively. Each child should feel supported and included in the group to participate to the best of their ability, and your role in this is invaluable.

It's important to note that some activities may be focused on an individual level within the group, such as each child using a sand tray individually while still being part of the larger group. The teaching should also switch between individual activities and whole-class teaching to achieve the intended learning outcomes of the activity. Differentiation should be well planned based on each child's emotional development.

Be bold in adapting or developing the activity for or with young people as you see fit.

Remember your sense of PLAY if the activity calls for this!