Activity 1: Story-Game Day
Activity time: 10 minutes
Materials for Activity
- Copy of the story, "Game Day"
- Leader Resource 1, Illustration – Game Day in Abby's Classroom
- Optional: Fidget basket (see Session 1, Leader Resource 2, Fidget Objects)
Preparation for Activity
- Prepare to tell or read the story to the group using the illustration of Game Day in Abby's classroom (Leader Resource 1).
- Optional: If you have a basket of fidget objects for children who will listen and learn more effectively with something in their hands, make the basket available during this activity. See Session 1, Leader Resource 2, Fidget Objects for a full description of fidget baskets and guidance for using them.
Description of Activity
Tell or read the story. Process the story with these questions:
- What were some of the ways the group made decisions?
- Why didn't Dr. Liu simply make the decisions?
- Abby says, "We believe that everyone deserves a say about the things that concern them." This is our fifth UU Principle, stated simply. Have you ever been part of a decision-making process where you voted? How does it feel when you lose? When you win?
- How does your class in school or other groups to which you belong, made decisions? Do they always use the same method?
Including All Participants
You may wish to make fidget objects available to children who find it difficult to sit still while listening to a story or can focus better with sensory stimulation. For a full description and guidance, see Session 1, Leader Resource 2.
Consider using rug squares in the storytelling area. Place them in a semi-circle with the rule "One person per square." This can be very helpful for controlling active bodies.