A little help from friends

Fifth-grade pupils in elementary school should be trained in the art of peer mediation. Then, as members of the peace team, they can assist third- and fourth-graders in mediating conflicts on the school grounds. When a member of the peace team notices a possible problem, they approach the kids and ask if they want to participate in peer mediation. Students can also request peer mediation if all sides are ready to participate.

Students are brought to a quiet spot on campus designated for these discussions, and the settlement process begins under adult supervision. Depending on the nature of the issue, this can take only a few minutes or several days.