Initiation

Initiation is the ability to start something in a timely manner without needing a prompt or cue.  The participant may not respond when asked a direct question in the gallery tour.  They may have difficulty picking up a paint brush to paint even after being asked and others have already begun, or they may appear unmotivated.

This is important because a change in our facilitation can overcome many difficulties with initiation.  We can help a participant join a conversation by calling them by name.  This prompt is often enough to help the participant join in.  If needed, we can also model ways to respond.  In a hands-on activity, we can offer individual support by demonstrating the first step beside the participant’s work for them to see how to start, or by handing them a tool.  Additional supportive strategies will be discussed in Module Four: Understanding Approach.