Families All Matter Book Project

A curriculum for elementary school-age children

from aMaze
www.amazeworks.org

Reviewed by Tracey L. Hurd, Ph.D.
Children and Family Programs Director
Lifespan Faith DevelopmentUUA, Boston, MA

A Twelve-Session Curriculum
Produced by aMaze. PO Box 17417, Minneapolis, MN 55417.
Phone: 612-724-4323 and Web Site: www.amazeworks.org

Overview:
The "Families All Matter Book Project" is a literature-based family diversity project for elementary school-age students. It was developed to challenge bias and create community through stories that portray diverse families. In their statement of purpose, the project authors write, "The book project promotes an understanding of the uniqueness of everyone and our right to fair treatment. It establishes patterns for respectful communication and explores cooperative problem solving. It supports students in developing ways to deal with difficult situations. These are the practical skills that students need to be more caring and inclusive in their classrooms and beyond."

The project consists of 10 sessions, each focusing on a different family diversity theme. Each session includes an introduction to the topic (for which a script is provided), the reading of an age- and topic-appropriate book, followed by discussion and journal exercises. Questions are provided for discussion as are models of answers to kids' tough questions. In each session, there are copy-ready journal activity cards. There is an annotated booklist of books related to the theme for each age group. All materials are presented very clearly; someone new to working with children could use them easily.

Contents:
Introduction Session
Family Diversity Theme Sessions
Families are Different
Race/Ethnicity
Divorce and Breakups
Lesbian and Gay Family Members
Socioeconomics
Immigration
Adoption
Disability
Aging
Religion
Closing Session
Appendix of extra teaching materials
Reproducible letters to parents and evaluation forms

Suggested Use:
This project would be wonderful for use with elementary school-age children in a Unitarian Universalist faith development program. By adding chalice lighting to the start and a consideration of applicable UU Principles to the discussion, the sessions become enriching explorations of both the topic and our UU faith. The structure of discussion, reading/listening, discussing, and creating journal entries might be less enticing to younger school-age children. But it can be augmented by the addition of songs and games appropriate for younger children.

The clarity of the program and the simplicity of the materials make it accessible to a wide range of leaders and congregations. Youth who are experienced with religious education might enjoy leading or co leading this program with younger school-age children. While the program is powerful as a whole, it could also be used on a workshop basis. It might provide excellent children's programming for congregations holding periodic congregation dinners that are often followed by activities for adults and childcare if needed. It is simple to use and meaningful. The "Families All Matter Book Project" can be used to support congregations-wide diversity affirming work, including welcoming congregation efforts.