Restorative Approaches to Discipline
Traditional punishment often fails to address the root causes of behavioral issues or repair the harm caused. Restorative approaches focus on healing, learning, and rebuilding relationships while still maintaining accountability. Here is an introduction to restorative practices that will help students understand the impact of their actions and develop better choices for the future.
Restorative vs. Punitive Mindset
Punitive Approach:
- What rule was broken?
- Who’s to blame?
- What punishment fits?
Restorative Approach:
- Who was harmed?
- What needs to be repaired?
- How can we prevent this in the future?
Restorative Questions Framework
For the Student Who Caused Harm:
- What happened?
- What were you thinking at the time?
- Who do you think has been affected by your actions?
- What do you think needs to happen to make things right?
For the Student Who Was Harmed:
- What happened to you?
- How did this affect you?
- What has been the hardest part for you?
- What do you need to feel better about this situation?
Restorative Practices Toolkit
Community Circle Guidelines
- One person speaks at a time
- Listen with respect
- Speak from the heart
- Keep what’s shared in the circle
- You always have the right to pass
Problem-Solving Circle Process
- Opening: Check-in with each person
- Sharing: Each person tells their perspective
- Responsibility: Acknowledge impact of actions
- Resolution: Create plan to repair harm
- Closing: Commitment to moving forward
Individual Reflection Questions
- What led to this situation?
- Who was affected by my choices?
- What could I have done differently?
- How can I repair any harm that was done?
- What will I do differently next time?
Making Amends Options
- Verbal or written apology
- Helping the affected person
- Community service in classroom
- Teaching others to avoid same mistake
- Creating something positive for the class
