Mentoring
Modeling can be provided in several different ways for students. The group co-leader, People First members, recent graduates and upperclassmen with better-developed self-awareness, leadership, and self-advocacy skills are examples of people who can serve as models for the members. An interesting variation of the presentation activity is members of the group meeting with younger students and serving as models for elementary and middle school students. They can share with students, parents and teachers the importance of advocating for one's self and relate experiences on how it has worked for them.
Note: There are additonal activities for support groups in the Fostering Self-Determination manual found in the Appendix. The sections on Person- Centered Planning and Video Modeling give good descriptions for using videotaping as a teaching tool. For more information on Video Futures and Video Modeling, contact Carl Evertsbusch at the Center for Human Development.