This week began our fall curriculum. The kids were divided into their respective classes for the year and spent the day introducing themselves, (re)connecting, and making promises for the year through a class covenant.
In the 3rd-6th grade class, the kids began by trying to master what they had started in the sanctuary: the friendship knot. They were untwisting masters by the end! Then they sat down and Larry told them the story of Noah’s Arc and the Flood. At the end of the story God makes a covenant with Noah and the animals. After listening to the story, the kids were ready to make their own covenants. Larry asked them how they wished their parents treated them and how they wished their friends treated them. Out of the resultant lists, came their covenant for the year. They concluded the day’s lesson by making very colorful name tags to wear around the fellowship.
In the K-2nd grade class, they started with some centering physical activities. At one point they were cranes, flapping their wings and circling one of their legs. I really wish I had been there to see that! Then they were ready for the work of the day: choosing a class name and generating their covenant. The naming process lead to some great options: Jupiter, Monkeys, Lions, Stripes, Wolf pups, Snakes, Wolves, White, Black, Colors, Oak, and Peace and quiet. Molly reports that they have not finalized their choice yet – I will let you know when they do! They did finalize their covenant, though. It is incredibly thoughtful – please stop in the Large RE room next week to see it. They ended their lesson by creating name tags.
In the Pre-K room, the kids began by introducing themselves and “lighting” the chalice – instead of lighting a flame, they attach their names to a felt chalice on the bulletin board. Then they did the introductory lesson to Chalice Children. This is a wonderful UUA curriculum. If you’d ever like to take a look at a copy of it, please stop by my office and I’d be happy to show you. They also created name tags with Sandy’s help. The lesson ended with the group sitting around the table sharing a snack – it was a beautiful image to walk in on!
In the nursery this week, the toddlers took advantage of the gorgeous weather and went outside! They played on the hill and watched birds and cars. Then they went inside for play time and the making of name tags. Katherine reports that in true toddler fashion, not all of them were interested in making one. We’ll keep trying!
We had a great start to our fall program today. I’m looking forward to what’s to come!