Roses and Thorns
A check-in activity that invites participants to share the highs and lows of their week.
Roses and Thorns is a check-in activity that can be done with up to 30 participants. What was something that went well (rose)? What was a challenge (thorn)? What are they looking forward to (rosebud). If you think this metaphor won’t resonate with your group, try "highs and lows," or "glows and grows."
Planning and Preparation: This 45-minute activity (depending on number of participants) can work anywhere where participants can sit in a circle. No materials are needed, but you may want to incorporate an object that participants pass around to signify who has the floor.
Developmental Relationship Element: All.
CASEL Competencies: Self-awareness.
Objective: Build and strengthen relationships among participants and between participants and leaders.
Activity
Roses and Thorns
Resource Audience
Resource Type
Read Time
Participants
# of Participants
Task Group Size
Task Length
More Activities to Build Strong Relationships in Your Classroom or Group
Report / Brief
Developmental Relationships Framework
The developmental relationships framework identifies five strategies to strengthen and deepen the relationships that help young people grow and thrive.
Resources
Weave a Web of Support
Inspire increased support among educators.
Activity
Cogenerative Dialogue
Student Voice - Cogenerative Dialogue
Related Resources on Relational Practices
Activity
Navigating by Our Stars
A downloadable activity where participants reflect and write about their deeply held values and write a message to a younger person to share their values.
Activity
Collaborative Decision-Making | Curriculum
Student Voice Toolkit: Collaborative Decision Making - Curriculum
Resources
Staff Gratitude Circle (E2E)
Cultivate an experience of gratitude that can help educators see one another in personal ways.