Introduction
Part of Chalice Children, in Preschool
Peace shall walk softly through these rooms . . . — "May Nothing Evil Cross This Door," Hymn 1 in Singing the Living Tradition
The children will become familiar with the inside of the larger building of which their Chalice Children meeting room is a part and begin to develop a sense of belonging. This may be the first visit for some preschoolers, so it is helpful to repeat the welcome from the first session to set the tone and rhythm for the rest of the year: Chalice Children make friends, feel love, and learn about the congregation. Preschool children usually will not be able to identify the name of the congregation or the name of our faith, Unitarian Universalism. By encouraging them to say "Unitarian Universalism," "Chalice Children," and the name of your congregation, you will start their learning process. The repetition of name and identity will reinforce their sense of belonging.
Goals
This session will help preschoolers:
- Explore the inside of the congregation's building and discover its special places
- Experience the Chalice Children meeting room as a safe and welcoming place
- Experience the group as friendly and caring
- Become aware of the congregation as Unitarian Universalist.
Learning Objectives
Participants will:
- Experience the congregation as a safe and welcoming place and begin to develop a sense of belonging
- Become familiar with aspects of the building beyond the Chalice Children meeting room, and see that they are part of the larger congregation
- See that other children, youth, and adults are engaged in other activities throughout the congregation.