Dealing with Conflict in a Healthy Way on the Unit: A guide to help build understanding, communication and respect in residential settings for youth in care is a curriculum is about building understanding, communication, and respect in residential settings where young people live, learn, and grow together. Dealing with Conflict in a Healthy Way on the Unit helps staff and residents recognize conflict as an opportunity—not a setback—for teaching emotional regulation, empathy, and problem-solving.
It was created for environments where emotions run high and trust is still being built. Many young people in residential care are navigating the effects of trauma, loss, and instability while learning how to coexist with others in shared spaces. This resource gives both staff and youth the language, structure, and tools to turn tense moments into teachable ones.
Through relatable stories, guided questions, and creative extensions, Dealing with Conflict in a Healthy Way on the Unit encourages youth to reflect, express themselves safely, and practice alternative ways to handle frustration. For staff, it offers a consistent, trauma-informed approach for de-escalation and restorative dialogue that strengthens community and trust.
This is a curriculum about growth in real time—about transforming everyday conflicts into meaningful opportunities for learning, relationship-building, and emotional healing. Contains 10 core activities and then extended activities with each activity.
Download a sample here
Dealing with Conflict in a Healthy Way on the Unit:
Residential mental health workers (RMHWs) , social workers, therapists, behavior specialists, SEL leaders, and anyone supporting students in therapeutic or self-contained settings.
- Flexible and Modular
Use across weeks or embed into daily check-ins, writing time, SEL blocks, or pull-out counseling or group meetings
