• Yarn, in different colors
• Scissors, fabric glue, and fabric markers
• Refreshments
• Music and music player
• Optional: An attractive basket

• Arrange a day, time, and space for a doll-making party. Plan to make the dolls in time to be included as gifts in any scheduled child dedication ceremonies at your congregation. Recruit adults or older youth to help organize and host the party.
• Find instructions on making simple yarn dolls. eHow has a set of instructions. If using these instructions, do not include buttons. Alternately, invite a congregational member to lead the craft.
• Plan to use a variety of colors of yarn and avoid light blue and pink.

The children invite the congregation to a doll-making party.

Leadership in Action (LIA) invite children to take the lead in an activity that engages with the congregation. Through these activities, young people will start to see themselves as leaders in their faith.

Open the party by helping the children explain to the larger group why they are making the dolls and the importance of the congregation in a UU child dedication. Explain how to make the dolls and where to put finished dolls. Serve refreshments, play music.

Make dolls that are gender neutral. Make at least enough dolls for every child being dedicated. While making the dolls, invite all ages to discuss what they think a child dedication signifies. What hopes and dreams do they hold for the new lives? How are they willing to dedicate themselves to helping these children become the best they can be?

You might keep the dolls in an attractive basket. Arrange with worship leaders to invite each dedicated child (or a parent/caregiver, for babies) to choose a doll as a gift as part of the dedication ceremony or afterward.