Survival Ideas for Small Groups

I'm not sure where I picked up this list, so unfortunately I can't give credit where it's due. While you may not agree with everything in the list (I don't), it's definitely full of useful ideas for small groups.

Include everyone whenever possible
At the beginning, get everyone in the group to talk
Four in a group is best; six is okay; eight should be the maximum
Be aware of new people and include them in the conversation
Remember that small groups often raise the tension level (because people can't hide)
Move from light to heavy discussion
Ask "I feel" rather than "I know" questions
The longer the group is together, the better they will feel about the group
In a small group it's easier to share, pray, encourage and be personal
Prepare your discussion questions and vary how you ask them
Avoid any putdowns
Discussion questions should be answerable
Allow people the right to pass and not share
Create a casual and relaxed atmosphere
Don't always expound on the answer yourself
Call people by name
Eye contact and body language are important for the leader
When you ask someone to read, make sure he/she is able to read out loud or else don't ask
Get your group in a comfortable atmosphere where everyone can see each other's eyes
Request confidentiality in the group

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