Training Peer Helpers: Coaching Youth to Communicate, Solve Problems, and Make Decisions -- Discontinued

When young people struggle with problems, to whom do they turn for help? Most often, it's their friends. In this guide, Barbara B. Varenhorst, Ph.D., one of the most respected names in peer helping, provides 15 sessions an adult can use to train students in the skills necessary to more effectively help their peers.

Through discussion and fun, engaging activities, students will learn the basic but crucial skills necessary for building healthy relationships, including the following:

• Communication: asking questions and listening for content and feelings
• Assertiveness: expressing rights and desires, dealing with peer pressure, and managing sensitive issues
• Confidentiality: honoring what others share and deciding when safety concerns override it
• Decision Making: weighing information and evaluating choices
• Conflict Mediation: dealing with disagreements and reaching peaceful solutions

Previously published as An Asset Builder's Guide to Training Peer Helpers, this updated resource incorporates the 40 Developmental Assets—the essential building blocks of healthy development that young people need to succeed and helps young people make a powerful difference in the lives of their peers.