Reflective Practice Sessions
In this busy and hectic world, we all need more time to pause and reflect on our work with young children and the adults in their lives.
Which is why DCRC offers
Reflective Practice Sessions
Why
Reflection is the process of thoughtfully considering one’s own experiences in applying knowledge to practice (Schon, 1996). Reflective Practice is when we take the time to do just that! We must carve out time and make it a priority so that we learn from our experiences and continue to grow. Identifying a dedicated time with a consistent person is one of the best ways to ensure that you pause and reflect. Rachel Wagner, MSW, with the Devereux Center for Resilient Children, is a skilled reflective supervisor who provides an empathetic, safe and confidential space to talk and reflect individually or with a small group.
What
Reflective Practice Sessions are a time to talk about the work you do to support children and adults. The sessions focus on experiences, thoughts, and feelings directly connected with the work you are doing with young children and the adults in their lives. Reflective Practice Sessions are characterized by active listening and thoughtful questioning by both parties. The role of the facilitator is to help you to answer your own questions, and to provide support and knowledge necessary to guide decision making. In addition, the facilitator provides an empathetic, nonjudgmental ear. Working through complex emotions in a “safe place” allows you to manage the stress you experience on the job. It also allows you to experience the very sort of relationship that you are expected to provide to those with whom you work. During Reflective Practice Sessions, Rachel will support you in stepping back from the immediate, intense experience of hands-on work, while taking the time to think about what the experiences really mean. The goal of Reflective Practice Sessions is to create an environment in which people do their best thinking! (Reflective Practice concepts adapted from https://www.zerotothree.org/resources/412-three-building-blocks-of-reflective-supervision)
Who
Any individual or group of professionals working with young children, including:
- Early Childhood Mental Health Professionals
- Early Childhood Leaders
- Coaching Professionals
- Teachers
How
- Individual – Reflective Practice can be established on an individual basis for one-on-one sessions, typically for one hour in length, taking place over the phone (although, web-based, face-to-face sessions are also an option).
- Group – Reflective Practice Groups can be established if 2-4 people engaging in similar work wish to create a collaborative space for reflection with the help of a facilitator via web-based, face-to-face sessions (group phone conferencing is also available, but not preferred). Group sessions typically run from 1.5-2 hours in length.
These sessions are facilitated by Rachel Wagner, MSW. Learn more about Rachel. Session packages start from as little as four sessions to monthly, ongoing calls. Packages can include individual sessions or sessions for small groups of individuals. Contact Debi Mahler at [email protected] if interested!
I look forward to our sessions every time! Rachel combines an extensive background in early childhood with her ability to support our team’s exploration of our thoughts and feelings about our work, and she encourages our growth as early childhood consultants every time we meet.
