What will I learn in the CircleTalk Leader Course?
The CircleTalk Leader Course prepares participants to skillfully lead CircleTalk programs in any setting where seniors gather. This one-day programs utilizes an interactive approach to learning and practicing core leader skills, including whole group discussion, staged Circles, and one-on-one coaching.
The course focuses on teaching and strengthening a variety of skills, such as:
- Understand group dynamics best practices so that you can form healthy groups, promote meaningful engagement and maximize participation.
- Create a universally accessible environment for full group engagement (i.e. hearing loss, vision loss and cognitive and memory challenges, etc.).
- Effectively guide structured conversations that in a way that fosters a sense of belonging and connection amongst the group.
- Create a positive and open environment so that participants can share personal stories, insights and feelings.
How do I start a circle after I get trained? Will CircleTalk be able to assist me in marketing and supporting me once I start a group?
Through our CircleTalk Leader Course you will become familiar with our process for outreach to attract participants for CircleTalk programs and receive templates to customize for your community so that you can immediately begin implementing CircleTalk.
Where are the best places to lead CircleTalk programs?
CircleTalk has been successfully adapted in many different kinds of settings where older adults gather, including:
- Independent Senior Living Communities
- Assisted Living Communities
- 55+ Communities
- Memory Care Communities
- Senior Community and Recreation Centers
- In home care settings
- Houses of Faith
- Subsidized Senior Apartments
- Naturally Occurring Retirement Communities
- PACE-Adult Day Programs
How will I know if I am ready to lead a group (especially if I haven’t done this before!)?
CircleTalk Master Trainers are available to you for specific program consultation and coaching for two 30-minute coaching meeting post training and more if you need it! Our goal is to create a community of successful CircleTalk leaders and reach as many older adults seeking meaningful engagement as possible.
What is the ideal size for a group?
Most CircleTalk circles are 8-12 people. In some settings, it makes sense to have smaller groups. This is an area that we are happy to consult with you on!
Is there a way for me to see a group in action?
Yes. We are directly involved in senior settings in the greater Denver area and will attempt to accommodate any requests to actually observe a circle in action.
Do I have to take the CircleTalk Leader Training to use the curriculum?
Yes. In the Leader Course you will learn how to use the curriculum. CircleTalk has field-tested, non-repeating and professionally published curriculum for approximately one year of CircleTalk programs. You will receive the first 13 weeks of CircleTalk Curriculum when you complete the CircleTalk Leader Course along with program props and supplies. Two additional sets of CircleTalk Curriculum are available for purchase.
Can I train my staff to do this?
CircleTalk training is a copyrighted training and curriculum. Please contact us if you would like to bring CircleTalk to your organization.
