Playing with Fire 2/e

Preface to the Second Edition. Introduction. Preparing the Ground. 1. The Fuel: Ourselves and our Communication. 2. The Spark: Immediate Responses and Coping Mechanisms. 3. Smouldering: Powerlessness and Assertiveness. 4. Fanning the Flames: Anger, Enemies and Awareness. 5. Stoking the Fire: Inequalities and Empowerment. 6. The Blaze: Crisis Management, Recovering and Reparation. 7. Mediation and Action for Change: Towards Community Action. Guidance for Trainers. Games and Group Discussion Techniques. Appendix A: Alternative Session Plans. Appendix B: References. Appendix C: Useful Websites and Further Reading.

Too often young people are seen as a problem; in this manual they are accorded respect and valued for their role in being the solution, if properly supported, motivated, and trained. The experienced, and expert, team of practitioners from Leap Confronting Conflict has produced a practical tool kit for any practitioner working with young people engaged in, or experiencing, conflict. I would commend Playing with Fire and believe that it should be available in every school, youth work, and other workplace where conflict, bullying, or violence might affect young people. I have met young people who have participated in the training offered by Leap Confronting Conflict; they provide the best affirmation of the value of both the work of Leap Confronting Conflict and Playing with Fire.