• Magazines and/or newspapers that can be cut up
• Large sheets of construction paper in various colors
• Glue sticks and scissors, including left-handed scissors

• Gather participants at work tables.

Participants make collages of the symbols they think represent them.

Explain that many different religions have symbols that people recognize. For instance, we have a chalice, Christians have the cross, and Jews have the six-pointed Star of David. Tell the children they may look through the magazines and cut out pictures of things that they care about and value. For instance, you may love animals and believe everyone should take care of them. Find a picture of animals and paste it to the construction paper.

Explain that in a collage, we do not need to leave spaces between the pictures. Each picture can overlap another slightly. Invite the children to find and use enough pictures so the only construction paper left showing is the part around the outside of the collage; show them how the remaining construction paper will then frame their collage.

Distribute materials and invite children to begin.

Once everyone is finished, invite participants to explain briefly what they chose for their personal symbols. Ask the group: Did everyone have the same symbols? Why or why not?

Invite children who need help cutting pictures to select pictures for a co-leader to cut out. Be sure all participants can reach the materials they need. If any participants finish earlier than others, invite them to offer their help to others who are still working.