Restitution
Benito School practices Restitution strategies and philosophies as a foundational means of character and self-discipline. Restitution is not a process; it is a way of being. Restitution is a mindset, or a philosophy that creates the conditions for individuals to learn from their mistakes, as well as to learn to identify and fulfill their personal needs, in order to establish personal happiness. Through structured teachings, students learn about the Basic Needs; learn to identify their basic needs and become more independent in understanding and meeting their individual needs (Love, Belonging, Survival, Fun and Freedom). Collaboratively students establish their Quality School individually outlining the “The person I (they) want to be…” in order to succeed within their Quality World.
Benito School Staff have been practicing Restitution for several years. We understand and guide the students in realizing that Restitution is a way of being an evolution of thoughts, processes, and habits that bring change to how we respond to issues. Through this foundational belief, students learn to acknowledge their errors, make better choices, set goals, self-regulate and grow emotionally, personally, and academically. Restitution practices require consistent language and management style. The most intriguing thing is that Restitution is just not for kids; it is as effective and meaningful for adults as it is for children, helping with challenges, personal growth and building positive relationships with family, friends, and colleagues. If you wish to learn more about Restitution, please inquire at our office.
Restitution Conversation Reference Card
If the student is NOT self-regulated in that moment…
- Attempt to stabilize: (We all make poor choices sometimes. There is nothing we can’t work out together. Could you have done worse?
- If they won’t calm down let them know you are going to give them some time and cycle back to having the conversation once they are calm. Make sure to cycle back for it.
When regulated …validate the need and seek the belief
- What was your behaviour? _________________________________________________________
- Why did you do what you did? Fun Freedom Power Love/Belonging Other
- Did your behaviour meet your need? Yes or No
- Acknowledge: “I want your need to be met”
- Did your behaviour show the person you want to be based on our class/school beliefs? Yes or No
- How can you meet that need in the future without going against what we believe or breaking a class/school rule? Can we find a Win/Win? Students suggest a plan. Be patient. The plan is______________________________________________
- Restitution: how can you make what happened right so you can enter the class strengthened?
I need to _______________________________________________________________
If the student won’t engage…we switch to a monitor role. Be direct and move towards consequences.
- If you don’t ______________________________I will have to___________________
- I would rather_______________so we can have a win/win situation, and both get what we need.
- This is what I see and hear, and this is what I need from you________________________________
- A consequence was Not Needed or Needed and was_____________________
