Developing Mentor Programs
1) The Mentor Training for Children
The Mentor Training program can be done on a smaller scale separate from the "Include ME!" program as a youth sensitivity training. The program is a formalized workshop scheduled through Pathways that centers around the "children teaching children" model and is meant to educate and prepare children, both with and without disabilities to be mentors or role models for inclusion. The training is designed to be interactive and to help perspective mentors learn to effectively problem solve and gain the tools they will need to guide them through various challenges they may experience while mentoring. It offers direction and understanding on how to appropriately assist and befriend a child that may have poor eye contact, inappropriate behaviors, hyperactivity, developmental delays, physical disabilities and more. Mentors participate in five workstations that simulate certain disabilities specifically geared toward producing empathy and more of a personal understanding. Moreover, the training helps children focus more on the abilities every individual may have. The mentor training can be used as a sensitivity training for entire grade levels or for smaller groups who maybe assigned as mentors for specific programs. It is strongly recommended the training not exceed 25 children and is two hours long. The training can be reduced to 1.5 hours if the section on "hidden" disabilities is removed. The program is designed to be very flexible and can be used to train children ages 8 and up for school, after-school, or recreational programs. ($150.00 per training for 25 children but prices may vary depending on travel time)
2) The Mentor Training - "Train the Trainer"
Pathways has now established a formal "Train the Trainer" program. The purpose of the program is to train appropriate professionals in schools and communities to independently perform the mentor trainings for children. Pathways has copyrighted the professional guidebook that goes with the two day training and details each specific part of the mentor training, how to run the stations, and provides material and equipment kits. The "Train the Trainer" module is presently being piloted during the 2011-2012 school year in schools in both Wayne and Long Valley, New Jersey. Schools in these districts were awarded the "Include ME!" grants from Pathways.
NOTE: These classes can be brought to your town or school district. Travel time and expenses will be discussed based upon location of the class. Please click here to email (info@pathwayskids.org) or call (973) 856-9587. It is recommended that towns and school districts combine resources and partner when hosting these classes to maximize participation and build a network of support and volunteerism.
