Human beings escalate. We escalate because we are emotional beings. As adults in afterschool programs this may look like frustration, use of a negative tone and reactionary outbursts and actions. For young people escalation can look like anger, crying, running away, shutting down, aggression, hiding, and screaming.

At The Flourish Lab, we believe that the most important strategy for de-escalation is prevention. We can prevent ourselves and young people from escalating by creating positive environments characterized by the presence of positive relationships and belonging, creating a space filled with positive and supportive adults, and planning engaging and enriching activities. No matter how positive the environment, though, young people will still escalate sometimes. Setting up positive environments up front lays the groundwork for effective de-escalation by creating an environment of trust and safety. Providing teams with de-escalation training equips staff members with the tools and techniques necessary to handle “crisis” situations calmly and effectively.

1. Understanding De-Escalation Training

De-escalation training focuses on two key things: First, de-escalation training helps staff understand why young people escalate and what happens in the body and mind during escalation. This understanding alone can help staff have more compassion when a young person is having an “emotional crisis.” Second, de-escalation training provides staff members with the skills needed to manage and defuse potentially volatile situations. This type of training includes understanding and utilizing de-escalation techniques both as the adults and as adults supporting young people. Having a toolbox of de-escalation strategies is crucial for maintaining a safe and supportive environment for young people and staff.

2. The Need for De-Escalation Training in Afterschool Programs

Enhancing Mental Health and Safety
In addition to the day-to-day challenges that young people face, afterschool staff may also encounter students dealing with various behavioral health issues, including mental illness and trauma. De-escalation training helps staff understand how to respond to these students in a way that promotes mental health and safety. By using evidence-based de-escalation tactics, staff can reduce the risk of escalation and create a more supportive environment.

Improving Conflict Resolution Skills
Conflict resolution is a vital component of de-escalation training. Staff members learn how to identify the early signs of conflict and intervene before situations escalate. This involves understanding nonverbal communication and body language, which can provide critical cues about a student's emotional state.

3. Key Components of De-Escalation Training

Verbal De-Escalation Techniques
Verbal de-escalation involves using calm and reassuring language to defuse tense situations. Training programs teach staff how to speak in a non-threatening manner, validate the feelings of the individual in crisis, and provide clear and concise instructions to help guide them through the situation.

Nonverbal Communication
Understanding nonverbal cues is essential in de-escalation. Training emphasizes the importance of maintaining an open and non-threatening posture, respecting personal space, and using appropriate body language to convey empathy and understanding.

Crisis Intervention Strategies
Crisis intervention involves a set of techniques designed to address and resolve a crisis situation. This includes recognizing the signs of a crisis, using de-escalation tactics to manage the situation, and implementing crisis intervention plans that prioritize safety and well-being.

4. Implementing De-Escalation Training Programs

In-Person and Online Training Courses
De-escalation training can be delivered through in-person training sessions or online courses. Both formats offer comprehensive training programs that cover the fundamentals of de-escalation, including conflict management, verbal de-escalation, and crisis intervention.

The Flourish Lab, for example, offers a series of online workshops that focus on creating positive youth environments that serve to prevent escalation in the first place. In addition, The Flourish Lab offers workshops on key aspects of de-escalation for those moments that inevitably occur. These workshops provide practical, evidence-based techniques that staff can use in their daily interactions with students.

Customizable Training Programs
Providing customizable de-escalation training programs allows afterschool staff to address the specific needs of the community. This may include specialized training for working with young people with behavioral health issues or those who have experienced trauma.

Continuous Learning and Support
Ongoing professional development is crucial for the successful implementation of de-escalation training. School and organization leaders should prioritize continuous learning opportunities, such as workshops, webinars, and collaborative training sessions, to ensure that staff members stay updated on the latest de-escalation strategies and best practices.

5. Success Stories

Many afterschool programs have successfully implemented de-escalation training and reported significant improvements in staff and student safety. For instance, staff members who have undergone training with organizations like Crisis Prevention Institute (CPI) have demonstrated enhanced conflict resolution skills and a greater ability to manage crisis situations effectively.

De-escalation training is essential for enhancing the effectiveness of afterschool programs. By equipping staff with the skills and knowledge to manage and defuse crisis situations, we can improve student outcomes and promote overall well-being. Investing in de-escalation training not only benefits staff members but also creates a safer and more supportive environment for all students.

Implementing comprehensive and ongoing de-escalation training programs is crucial for the development of a positive and safe afterschool environment. By focusing on evidence-based strategies and continuous professional learning, afterschool programs can ensure that their staff are well-prepared to handle any situation effectively.