The Faith Arc Learning Circle
Quarter 1 2024 - Summary
Dear Teachers and Leaders,
Quarter 2 Faith Arc Learning Circle
Please watch for the link to register for Quarter 2's Faith Arc Learning Circle in the April "Take 5" message to Youth and Children's Leaders!
Collaborative Learning
Participants were given a pre-read and in breakout rooms during the Learning Circle, discussed the article using a set of guiding questions.
Creating a Culture of Belonging
In this session we read the article "Creating a Culture of Belonging" and learned that in order for children and youth to feel welcomed and ready to learn, they must feel like they belong. Belonging is more than a name on a roster, it is being known, valued, and accepted. The article is attached below for you to enjoy. Here are some ideas that were highlighted during the breakout session of this Learning Circle:
- Use "All About Me" posters to help children feel known.
- Hang "All About Me" posters where members can see and read them to help children feel known by others.
- Let children be door greeters to give them purpose and to help them feel valued.
- Go to children's activities outside of church such as their music concerts, sporting events, plays, etc. to help them feel valued.
- Learn about each child's favorites (candy, book, sport, animal, hobby, food, etc.) and connect with them on that favorite thing to help them feel accepted (talk about their favorite book, bring them their favorite candy, ask about their hobby, etc.)
- Send cards to your Sunday School and Religious Instruction children, or Youth to help them feel accepted.
Collaborative Problem-Solving
The registration process included an opportunity for participants to submit local challenges for collaborative problem-solving. A portion of the Learning Circle was dedicated to sharing the challenge and allowing participants to offer practical solutions.
👨👩👧👦 Engaging Parents in the Sunday School Program
Challenge: How can we get parents more involved in coordinating and executing ideas for supplemental Sunday School activities such as Children's Days, participation in Worship, music programs, etc.?
The following solutions were proposed:
- Conduct a parent meeting that will explain to parents the supplemental events and the benefits to their children as well as the need for help to make the events happen.
- Use a sign up sheet that is broken down into specific tasks and time commitments.
- Personally invite your parents.
- Invite a parent to come and observe a supplemental event so they can see the activity and to gain a better understanding of what they are being asked to do.
🥱Keeping Children Engaged in Sunday School
Challenge: How can we keep a child interested and engaged in Sunday School when they have mastered most of the material and are too young to join the Religious Instruction class?
The following solutions were proposed:
- Assign a special project to this child that they work on when information they already know is being taught (Ex. make a map of the travels of Paul, create a Bible escape room puzzle, etc.). The child can then present the special project to the class which will further develop knowledge of doctrine and scripture, discipleship and leadership skills, and will foster a renewed interest in Sunday School.
- Allow time for interactions with older children outside of the Sunday School hour if this child is seeking more mature peers.
- Give this child "jobs" to do within the Sunday School hour, such as reading scripture to the class, helping peers learn their commandments, etc..
- Allow the child to use Bible app games during times when information they already know is being taught. Tell the child, they must share with the group something new they learned.
✂️Equipping Sunday School Classrooms
Challenge: How can we fully equip new Sunday School rooms so they are welcoming, comfortable, and appropriate for children?
The following solutions were proposed:
- Your rector and the National Building Office (NBO) can work together to provide basic furniture, equipment, and storage.
- Connect with local buy for free sites to find no cost items to equip rooms.
- Reach out to local schools, daycare centers, or libraries for furnishings they are looking to replace and are willing to donate. These items are normally in good condition, commercial grade, and appropriate items for children and classrooms.
Collaborative Celebrations
Local events are highlighted during this portion of the Learning Circle in an effort to inspire others to create similar experiences in their home congregations.
Bridge, Bond, Grow
I am thrilled to share with you a recent discovery that has been making waves in Milwaukee, WI. An intergenerational activity unfolded there, leaving a lasting impact on participants and the entire congregation. What's even more exciting is how this initiative has continued to evolve, giving rise to additional activities. "Bridge, Bond, Grow" began as an initiative for seniors (75+) to get to know the Sunday School children through the process of interviewing each other. The outcome of the interviews then evolved into a theme for the Christmas program, and the connections between these two groups continue to grow into activities for this spring. Kim Stickel, from the Milwaukee, WI congregation shared the inspiring journey of “Bridge, Bond, Grow” which can be duplicated in any size congregation. For the directions and information to plan a "Bridge, Bond, Grow" experience in your congregation, please contact Kim Stickel.
For more information contact:
Kim Stickel
Milwaukee, WI
Faith Arc Coordinator - Janie Metzger
Email: janie.metzger@nac-usa.org
Website: nac-usa.org
Phone: 847-951-8276