The Cincinnati Ethics Center recently launched its first youth program, Give Voice to Your Values. This interactive workshop introduces young people to age-appropriate ethical dilemmas, encouraging discussion and exploration of diverse perspectives. The goal is to help youth navigate differences collaboratively and make decisions that align with their values.
The inaugural workshop was held with Troop 4690, a 3rd and 4th-grade Girl Scout troop based at Maddux Elementary School in Anderson Township. Scouts paired up to practice active listening to understand their partner’s perspective. They then performed skits depicting ethical challenges, such as choosing between family and friends or addressing school policies about prioritizing subjects. The Scouts were enthusiastic performers and offered thoughtful responses to the dilemmas faced by the characters.
The program was a hit with the Scouts, who asked for a follow-up session to perform more skits! Christina Baulch, Director of K-12 Educational Programs, praised their engagement: “The girls modeled respectful discussion and engaged seriously with challenging problems. They did an excellent job listening to each other’s ideas and thoughtfully forming their own.”
The Give Voice to Your Values workshop is now available to youth groups across the Greater Cincinnati region, including Scouting troops, school-based clubs, and other youth organizations. Typically one hour long, the workshop can be customized to meet the needs and interests of each group. It can be held at the group’s regular meeting location or at the Cincinnati Ethics Center’s home in Digital Futures on the University of Cincinnati campus. Like all Cincinnati Ethics Center programs, it is offered free of charge.
At the conclusion of the workshop, each participant receives a Give Voice to Your Values fun badge in recognition of their work.
To learn more or schedule a workshop for your troop or youth group, contact Christina Baulch at christina.baulch@uc.edu.
