Activity time: 5 minutes

Materials for Activity

• A copy of the story, "The Good Samaritan"
• Optional: Items from the story basket to use as props
• A chime, a rain stick, or another calming sound instrument

Preparation for Activity

• Read the story a few times. Practice telling the story aloud.
• Consider using the participatory version of the story. Specific instructions for preparing volunteers to take roles in the "The Good Samaritan" are included with the story.
• Think about how you will use items from the story basket as props. You may wish to fill the cloth bag with the other props and put it next to you. If your storytelling will be participatory, pack the cloth bag with the other props for the child playing the Samaritan to use.

Description of Activity

The story, "The Good Samaritan," introduces the idea that everyone deserves our compassion and care, including strangers and those we think of as our enemies. All of these are, in fact, our neighbors. Through the storytelling, the children will vicariously experience compassion.

Before you begin, look around the room and make eye contact with each person. Read or tell the story. Ring the chime (or other sound instrument) to indicate that the story is over.

Including All Participants

If you have children in the group for whom it is very difficult to sit still, even when they are paying attention to what is happening around them, consider adopting the use of "fidget objects" as described in Leader Resources. These fidget objects can provide a non-disruptive outlet for the need to move.

The participatory version of this story will probably engage most children who otherwise benefit from using "fidget objects." If you have a fidget object basket, make it available just in case.