Jayden’s Story:
A Mischief Scenario
Scenario
Jayden is a 10-year-old Indigenous boy who lives in a small community. One afternoon after school, Jayden and a few friends were playing outside near the local community centre. They started throwing rocks to see who could throw the farthest. Jayden threw a rock that accidentally smashed a window at the community centre.
No one was hurt, but the centre had to close early, and some people couldn’t finish their activities that day. The police were called, and Jayden was charged with mischief for damaging the window.
Jayden said he didn’t mean to break anything—he was just trying to play with his friends. But now he feels nervous, embarrassed, and unsure of what to do.
Instead of going to court, the community has decided to hold a restorative justice circle to talk about what happened, how it affected people, and what can be done to make things better.
Characters in the Circle
Jayden – The young person who threw the rock
Jayden’s Grandmother – Who helps raise him and teaches him about respect
Community Centre Worker – The person who was working when the window broke
Jayden’s Friend – Who was playing with Jayden that day
Circle Keeper – The Program Facilitator will help everyone take turns and feel safe
Elder or Knowledge Keeper (If Available) – To open the circle with a teaching
“In our teachings, we know that even when we make mistakes, we are not bad people. We carry responsibility for our actions, and we come together to find peace, balance, and ways to heal. Everyone here is important.”
— Anonymous Elder