The Foundation Of Effective DNow Small Groups
Facilitating a DNow Small Group looks differently in different settings. But, all effective small groups have three common foundational elements.
Trust
Trust is the foundation of any DNow Small Group. Trust means being comfortable enough to be vulnerable. There should be no hesitation about sharing information within the boundaries of your group because students can know it will stay within the group. This comes from you. You must assure the group that what they say will stay within the group. (Unless what an individual shares reveals that he/she, or someone else, is in danger.)
Communication
Good communication means as much to your DNow Small Group dynamics as just about anything. This starts with you asking clear questions and listening carefully to students’ responses. Allowing students time to talk and helping them clarify their responses helps, too. More than anything, it’s crucial to create an environment where students feel safe to share their feelings.
Encouragement
Effective DNow Small Groups put a high premium on encouragement. If you set the example, you might just find your students following your lead. Even if students don’t vocally offer encouragement to one another, simply being a voice who is constantly encouraging will lead them to understand the importance of it within the group. You’ll be surprised what a weekend’s worth of encouragement can do in the life of a student.
Brendt Blanks is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and has led more small groups than she can remember. Brendt lives in Birmingham, AL.
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