October 9th, "Paul and Barnabas"

Kids PM Time Schedule (4pm-6:30pm)

4-4:45 Prep

4:45  Meet & Greet/Centers

5:05 Gather for Circle Time

5:10 Hand out Snacks in Circle

5:15 Pass the Peace & Go around

5:25 Readings & Dialogue

5:35 Music & Dance

5:45 Solidarity Prayer

5:50 Art Making & Centers

Tips:

·        Go over schedule each week at the beginning of your “Go Around”.

·        Give kids a heads up before transitioning into each new thing, 

·        and give them directions on how to transition.

·        Give 5 minute warnings for clean up times.

Center suggestions: These do not necessarily need to be connected to the theme of the evening. Having 2-3 places where kids can engage in an activity is enough (coloring, playing a game, etc.). Give them a heads up to let them know what time they will be called to gather in a circle.


Gathering Time suggestions: Think of a fun way to round up the kids (sing a song, clap your hands in a call and response, flash the lights). Show and tell kids where and how to gather.

Pass the Peace &Go around suggestions: Take a moment to have kids pass the peace to each other. Maybe think if a fun way for kids to do that (high five, elbow bumps, etc.). Think of a fun question to ask the group, and give each person a chance to respond quickly.

Reading & Dialogue Suggestions:
This season we are talking about showing or experiencing Grace during times when we, or others, are showing or experiencing Weakness.
Here is where we get that theme from

2 Corinthians 12:9-10
⁹ But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me. ¹⁰ That is why, for Christ’s sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong.
*Consider a fun way to re-learn this verse week to week. Playing games together like word scramble, hang man, crossword puzzles, etc. are a great way to incorporate literacy learning skills.

Here's another story in the bible. 

Paul and Barnabus (This is an extended version. You may only want to use half, or find another version of this story.

*Giving kids a "job" helps them pay attention and stay engaged. Ask them what 2 things they can look out for. Also, having visual aides are always a plus (pictures, props, etc.). Having the kids be a part of making those visual aides is even more awesome! 
After reading, ask kids what things they found and discuss. Think of 2 questions that help them relate this story to their own lives.

Music Suggestions: Although it's fun to at least have one song that is connected to our theme, it is not mandatory. Check out some of our music links for some ideas.

Solidarity Prayer: This season we are thinking about/praying for those who are dealing with weakness through God's grace. This week we are praying for  the people of Guatemala. In 2-3 phrases, explain who this is and ask the kids how they think we can pray for them. Consider writing it down on a large piece of paper, and then have the kids take turns praying for each part.

Art Making/Process Suggestions: The Mola is a common Central American craft. Let's try our hand at one.


Click HERE for a simple project plan.



Have a finished sample ready so that you know the project works. Have it out on display on a table with the materials set up under a cloth or blanket, to get kids excited about what is to come.)

If you want, check out some of our links in our side bar, and search for more coloring pages and word games and print them out for your centers.

October 16th, Fishing for Friends

Kids PM Time Schedule (4pm-6:30pm)

4-4:45 Prep

4:45  Meet & Greet/Centers

5:05 Gather for Circle Time

5:10 Hand out Snacks in Circle

5:15 Pass the Peace & Go around

5:25 Readings & Dialogue

5:35 Music & Dance

5:45 Solidarity Prayer

5:50 Art Making & Centers

Tips:

·        Go over schedule each week at the beginning of your “Go Around”.

·        Give kids a heads up before transitioning into each new thing, 

·        and give them directions on how to transition.

·        Give 5 minute warnings for clean up times.

Center suggestions: These do not necessarily need to be connected to the theme of the evening. Having 2-3 places where kids can engage in an activity is enough (coloring, playing a game, etc.). Give them a heads up to let them know what time they will be called to gather in a circle.


Gathering Time suggestions: Think of a fun way to round up the kids (sing a song, clap your hands in a call and response, flash the lights). Show and tell kids where and how to gather.

Pass the Peace &Go around suggestions: Take a moment to have kids pass the peace to each other. Maybe think if a fun way for kids to do that (high five, elbow bumps, etc.). Think of a fun question to ask the group, and give each person a chance to respond quickly.

Reading & Dialogue Suggestions:
This season we are talking about showing or experiencing Grace during times when we, or others, are showing or experiencing Weakness.
Here is where we get that theme from

2 Corinthians 12:9-10
⁹ But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me. ¹⁰ That is why, for Christ’s sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong.
*Consider a fun way to re-learn this verse week to week. Playing games together like word scramble, hang man, crossword puzzles, etc. are a great way to incorporate literacy learning skills.

Here's another story in the bible. 

Fishing for Friends (this verse says Fishers of Men. I called it fishing for friends, but you may decide to use another term that is inclusive of all genders.)

*Giving kids a "job" helps them pay attention and stay engaged. Ask them what 2 things they can look out for. Also, having visual aides are always a plus (pictures, props, etc.). Having the kids be a part of making those visual aides is even more awesome! 
After reading, ask kids what things they found and discuss. Think of 2 questions that help them relate this story to their own lives.

Music Suggestions: Although it's fun to at least have one song that is connected to our theme, it is not mandatory. Check out some of our music links for some ideas.


Solidarity Prayer: This season we are thinking about/praying for those who are dealing with weakness through God's grace. This week we are praying for  the churches in China. In 2-3 phrases, explain who this is and ask the kids how they think we can pray for them. Consider writing it down on a large piece of paper, and then have the kids take turns praying for each part.

Art Making/Process Suggestions:  The Chinese culture is know for it's drummers. Let's make some percussive instruments.

Paper Cup Shakers
Paper Plate Tambourine 
Paper Plate Music Shakers 

Have a finished sample ready so that you know the project works. Have it out on display on a table with the materials set up under a cloth or blanket, to get kids excited about what is to come.)

If you want, check out some of our links in our side bar, and search for more coloring pages and word games and print them out for your centers.

October 2nd, "The Kingdom of God"

Kids PM Time Schedule (4pm-6:30pm)

4-4:45 Prep

4:45  Meet & Greet/Centers

5:05 Gather for Circle Time

5:10 Hand out Snacks in Circle

5:15 Pass the Peace & Go around

5:25 Readings & Dialogue

5:35 Music & Dance

5:45 Solidarity Prayer

5:50 Art Making & Centers

Tips:

·        Go over schedule each week at the beginning of your “Go Around”.

·        Give kids a heads up before transitioning into each new thing, 

·        and give them directions on how to transition.

·        Give 5 minute warnings for clean up times.

Center suggestions: These do not necessarily need to be connected to the theme of the evening. Having 2-3 places where kids can engage in an activity is enough (coloring, playing a game, etc.). Give them a heads up to let them know what time they will be called to gather in a circle.


Gathering Time suggestions: Think of a fun way to round up the kids (sing a song, clap your hands in a call and response, flash the lights). Show and tell kids where and how to gather.

Pass the Peace &Go around suggestions: Take a moment to have kids pass the peace to each other. Maybe think if a fun way for kids to do that (high five, elbow bumps, etc.). Think of a fun question to ask the group, and give each person a chance to respond quickly.

Reading & Dialogue Suggestions:
This season we are talking about showing or experiencing Grace during times when we, or others, are showing or experiencing Weakness.
Here is where we get that theme from

2 Corinthians 12:9-10
⁹ But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me. ¹⁰ That is why, for Christ’s sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong.
*Consider a fun way to re-learn this verse week to week. Playing games together like word scramble, hang man, crossword puzzles, etc. are a great way to incorporate literacy learning skills.


Here's another story in the bible. 

Mark 10:17-31 The Rich and the Kingdom of God

*Giving kids a "job" helps them pay attention and stay engaged. Ask them what 2 things they can look out for. Also, having visual aides are always a plus (pictures, props, etc.). Having the kids be a part of making those visual aides is even more awesome! 
After reading, ask kids what things they found and discuss. Think of 2 questions that help them relate this story to their own lives.

Music Suggestions: Although it's fun to at least have one song that is connected to our theme, it is not mandatory. Check out some of our music links for some ideas.

Solidarity Prayer: This season we are thinking about/praying for those who are dealing with weakness through God's grace. This week we are praying for ________. In 2-3 phrases, explain who this is and ask the kids how they think we can pray for them. Consider writing it down on a large piece of paper, and then have the kids take turns praying for each part.

Art Making/Process Suggestions: The folks at Circle Thrift have made a special request that we help decorate their windows for the fall. We'll be making a newspaper leaf garland.

Click HERE for your project.

Have a finished sample ready so that you know the project works. Have it out on display on a table with the materials set up under a cloth or blanket, to get kids excited about what is to come.)

If you want, check out some of our links in our side bar, and search for more coloring pages and word games and print them out for your centers.

September 25th, "Mary and Martha"

Kids PM Time Schedule (4pm-6:30pm)

4-4:45 Prep

4:45  Meet & Greet/Centers

5:05 Gather for Circle Time

5:10 Hand out Snacks in Circle

5:15 Pass the Peace & Go around

5:25 Readings & Dialogue

5:35 Music & Dance

5:45 Solidarity Prayer

5:50 Art Making & Centers

Tips:

·        Go over schedule each week at the beginning of your “Go Around”.

·        Give kids a heads up before transitioning into each new thing, 

·        and give them directions on how to transition.

·        Give 5 minute warnings for clean up times.

Center suggestions: These do not necessarily need to be connected to the theme of the evening. Having 2-3 places where kids can engage in an activity is enough (coloring, playing a game, etc.). Give them a heads up to let them know what time they will be called to gather in a circle.


Gathering Time suggestions: Think of a fun way to round up the kids (sing a song, clap your hands in a call and response, flash the lights). Show and tell kids where and how to gather.

Pass the Peace &Go around suggestions: Take a moment to have kids pass the peace to each other. Maybe think if a fun way for kids to do that (high five, elbow bumps, etc.). Think of a fun question to ask the group, and give each person a chance to respond quickly.

Reading & Dialogue Suggestions:
This season we are talking about showing or experiencing Grace during times when we, or others, are showing or experiencing Weakness.
Here is where we get that theme from

2 Corinthians 12:9-10
⁹ But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me. ¹⁰ That is why, for Christ’s sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong.
*Consider a fun way to re-learn this verse week to week. Playing games together like word scramble, hang man, crossword puzzles, etc. are a great way to incorporate literacy learning skills.


Music Suggestions: Although it's fun to at least have one song that is connected to our theme, it is not mandatory. Check out some of our music links for some ideas.
  

Solidarity Prayer: This season we are thinking about/praying for those who are dealing with weakness through God's grace. This week we are praying for Teachers in Guatamala. In 2-3 phrases, explain who this is and ask the kids how they think we can pray for them. Consider writing it down on a large piece of paper, and then have the kids take turns praying for each part.

Art Making/Process Suggestions: Birds are often used as a symbol of peace. Here is a simple bird craft idea. 

Have a finished sample ready so that you know the project works. Have it out on display on a table with the materials set up under a cloth or blanket, to get kids excited about what is to come.)

If you want, check out some of our links in our side bar, and search for more coloring pages and word games and print them out for your centers.


*Giving kids a "job" helps them pay attention and stay engaged. Ask them what 2 things they can look out for. Also, having visual aides are always a plus (pictures, props, etc.). Having the kids be a part of making those visual aides is even more awesome! 

  
After reading, ask kids what things they found and discuss.

Suggested dialogue questions: What are things that we do to serve God? What are some things that get in the way of us serving God?
Here's another story in the bible. John 11:1-12:11 The story of Mary and Martha  

September 18th, 2011 "The Tower of Babel"

Kids PM Time Schedule (4pm-6:30pm)

4-4:45 Prep

4:45  Meet & Greet/Centers

5:05 Gather for Circle Time

5:10 Hand out Snacks in Circle

5:15 Pass the Peace & Go around

5:25 Readings & Dialogue

5:35 Music & Dance

5:45 Solidarity Prayer

5:50 Art Making & Centers

Tips:

·        Go over schedule each week at the beginning of your “Go Around”.

·        Give kids a heads up before transitioning into each new thing, 

·        and give them directions on how to transition.

·        Give 5 minute warnings for clean up times.

Center suggestions: These do not necessarily need to be connected to the theme of the evening. Having 2-3 places where kids can engage in an activity is enough (coloring, playing a game, etc.). Give them a heads up to let them know what time they will be called to gather in a circle.


Gathering Time suggestions: Think of a fun way to round up the kids (sing a song, clap your hands in a call and response, flash the lights). Show and tell kids where and how to gather.

Pass the Peace &Go around suggestions: Take a moment to have kids pass the peace to each other. Maybe think if a fun way for kids to do that (high five, elbow bumps, etc.). Think of a fun question to ask the group, and give each person a chance to respond quickly.

Reading & Dialogue Suggestions:
This season we are talking about showing or experiencing Grace during times when we, or others, are showing or experiencing Weakness.
Here is where we get that theme from


2 Corinthians 12:9-10

⁹ But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me. ¹⁰ That is why, for Christ’s sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong.
*Consider a fun way to re-learn this verse week to week. Playing games together like word scramble, hang man, crossword puzzles, etc. are a great way to incorporate literacy learning skills.

Here's another story in the bible. (Genesis 11: 1-9)   


Click HERE for kid friendly version, or find a fun one of your own.
.
*Giving kids a "job" helps them pay attention and stay engaged. Also, having visual aides are always a plus (pictures, props, etc.). Having the kids be a part of making those visual aides is even more awesome! 
  
After reading, ask kids what things they found and discuss.

Suggested dialogue questions: What are things that we do to serve God? What are things that we do to serve ourselves?

Music Suggestions: Although it's fun to at least have one song that is connected to our theme, it is not mandatory. Check out some of our music links for some ideas.
  

Solidarity Prayer: This season we are thinking about/praying for those who are dealing with weakness through God's grace. This week we are praying for Circle Counseling. In 2-3 phrases, explain who this is and ask the kids how they think we can pray for them. Consider writing it down on a large piece of paper, and then have the kids take turns praying for each part.

Art Making/Process Suggestions: Many times clay is used as a therapeutic tool. Let's try and make some play dough together! (Make this with the kids, it's a little messy but SUPER fun. Bring sandwich bags and you can send each kid home with a little bit;-).



No Fuss Play Dough
1 cup cold water
1 cup salt
2 teaspoons vegetable oil
2 cups flour
2 tablespoons cornstarch
Food coloring
In a large bowl, mix together water, salt, oil and a few drops of food coloring. Mix flour and cornstarch and add 1/2 cup at a time, stirring constantly (you may need a little more or a little less than 2 cups flour so make sure you stir in until it is the right consistency). Knead for a few minutes with flour on your hands. 


(Have a finished sample ready so that you know the project works. Have it out on display on a table with the materials set up under a cloth or blanket, to get kids excited about what is to come.)




If you want, check out some of our links in our side bar, and search for more coloring pages and word games and print them out for your centers.