Tapestry of Faith: World of Wonder: A Program on the Seven Principles of Unitarian Universalism for Grades K-1

Introduction

Part of World of Wonder

Wisdom begins in wonder. — Socrates, Greek philosopher

One of the most important goals of the World of Wonder program is for the children to engage directly with nature. This culminating session provides a shared outdoor experience. Consult with the religious educator to make the necessary arrangements for a field trip, including recruiting adult volunteers; you may wish to invite parents to come with their child. Travel time is not estimated in this session. Factor it into your plans.

The Alternate Activities are designed to be done indoors if it is not possible to go on a field trip or if the weather does not cooperate. Use the Opening activity, Activity 1, Earth Ball Appreciations, and the Closing Activity, and replace the 35 minute "Wonder Walk" with Alternate Activities 1-4.

Note that many of the program rituals have been modified for this session. There is no story; a brief review of the program's stories occurs in the Closing.

Goals

This session will:

  • Engage participants' senses of wonder and hone their observation skills
  • Nurture a sense of responsibility for the interdependent web
  • Celebrate bonds formed over the course of the program
  • Empower participants as leaders in the group
  • Reinforce the seventh Unitarian Universalist Principle, "respect for the interdependent web of all existence of which we are a part."

Learning Objectives

Participants will:

  • Reflect on their experiences over the course of this program
  • Appreciate bonds they have formed in the group
  • Engage their senses of wonder and awe
  • Be inspired and encouraged to protect and care for the interdependent web of all existence
  • Understand the seventh Principle as a statement of faith and a call to action.