Model of Support

Our Model 

With the Model of Support, facilitators learn a simple approach to the SandCastles philosophy: "Follow their Lead". The words "Respect, Acknowledge, Reflect, Normalize, Feelings, Coping and Inform", help serve as reminders to all of us, to respect children/adults where they are and for who they are. Everyone has a different journey and at SandCastles, we walk with each individual, wherever they are.

Respect

We respect the many different ways SandCastles children/adults feel, believe, express, and behave.  We respect them and follow their lead.

Acknowledge

We acknowledge what children/adults say to us.

Reflect

We mirror back to children/adults what they communicate to us.

Normalize

We normalize the child's/adult's experience as part of the group format.

Feelings

We remember that feelings are not right or wrong. It is what individuals do with those feelings that may become right or wrong.

Coping

We know that there are many ways to cope.  We can help facilitate how children/adults learn to cope without hurting themselves and/or someone else, either emotionally or physically. 

Inform

Staff and volunteers work together.  We keep the team informed in order to keep everyone safe.