EQ2 Facilitator Tips
Implementing EQ2
In this video, Beth reviews some best practices in the implementation and rollout of EQ2. Press play to begin!
Starting on the Right Foot
- Before group begins, share with potential group members what EQ2 is about, the time expectations, and any other logistical pieces that feel important (don't forget you have a "What is EQ2" handout in the previous section that you can give participants!). You might also ask what they want to get out of group, or what pieces they are most interested in focusing on. This really sets the tone at the beginning that EQ2 is for them.
- Speak to their supervisor or team lead and let them know that their staff is beginning an EQ2 group (if they aren't already aware). If needed, advocate for staff to attend group and make sure that supervisors understand how important it is that staff attend regularly (e.g., if staff are called in to work overtime during a time they are supposed to attend group).
- Speak to participants' supervisors or team leads and let them know that their staff is beginning an EQ2 group (if they aren't already aware). If needed, advocate for staff to attend group and make sure that supervisors understand how important it is that staff attend regularly (e.g., problem solve for any possibility of staff being called in to work overtime or attend to a crisis during a time they are supposed to attend group).
- If possible, consider compensation for extra group time (i.e., if a staff comes in 2 hours early for group).
- Lastly, having snacks or fidget toys at group can go a long way to creating a warm group environment (nobody hates free donuts!) An EQ2 community shout out to the team at Canopy Children's Solutions in Mississippi, who turned their EQ2 snack section into an agency-wide snack bar! Any staff who might need a little snack-pick-me-up can visit this snack area anytime.
The EQ2 App
One of our most favorite and ever-evolving tools is the EQ2 App, which provides staff with a toolkit of trauma-informed concepts and self-regulation skills that can be revisited over and over. The App is designed to offer evidence-based practices to help staff effectively manage the stress and anxiety that we all experience. Everyone in your agency can have access to the App, whether they are actively attending EQ2 groups or not.
The EQ2 App includes:
A Daily Check-In to help staff build their emotional awareness;
A Goal-Setting feature that allows staff to set and track EQ2-specific goals (e.g., "See the Core Self of every youth");
Over 50 short animated videos designed to support staff in deepening their understanding of key EQ2 concepts and skills such as Stop, Breathe, and Choose and Mindful Underreaction;
Dozens of guided meditations, visualizations, and grounding exercises that can be played during EQ2 groups or listened to away from work to help build staff resiliency;
An "SOS" button (on the top right) that's designed to support staff in real-time when they are triggered, stressed, or overwhelmed, whether they're at home or work;
And other new features being added regularly!
Press play below to watch the introductory video to the App!
Using the App
How might you use the App alongside EQ2 groups? Here are some suggestions. We also recommend that you spend some time on the App yourself so that you're familiar with what's on it. Click each card to turn it over and learn more.
Within every module of this EQ2 Facilitator Training, we've included the names of all the App videos and suggestions for where to include them in your EQ2 groups and beyond!
Looking for more? Head over to the EQ2+ section, Extra EQ2 Pointers for more ways to use and promote use of the EQ2 App!
Using Circles in EQ2
We use Circles in EQ2 to give all participants a chance to speak and be heard in a safe, equal, and respectful space. Circles promote equity and allow knowledge to be shared. Watch the video below to learn more about Circles.
Let's review some best Circle practices. Click through each of the tips below.
Arrange your seats in an actual Circle. Encourage everyone to be IN the Circle. If someone is sitting a bit off to the side, encourage them to join in.
In Session 1 of EQ2, there is a Supplemental section on Using Circles (pages 15-21). Many facilitators find it helpful to review some of this material so that participants understand WHY we use Circles in EQ2, get familiar with Circle Guidelines and Values, and understand how they can apply Circle work with youth and in times of conflict.
It's often helpful to begin the Circle yourself, modeling the depth and length of responses you'd like. Then proceed clockwise or counterclockwise.
Extra Pro Tip: You can also have someone volunteer to start (people who step up usually have something to say!), or choose someone you know will really "set the tone" of group you're looking for, like a trusted or veteran staff member.
Your EQ2 Facilitator Guide has icons where we recommend doing Circles instead of discussion, but mix it up if you need to! Refer to page 17 of your EQ2 Facilitator Manual for some tips on when to use Circles vs. Discussions.
Remember that people ALWAYS have the right to pass. And they don't have to give a reason.
Using Circles in EQ2 Go-To Guide
