Read the curriculum before you begin the program, focusing especially on the materials lists. Take note of activities that require extra preparation, and plan ahead so you will have the necessary materials in time. For example, you will need journals and materials to make anklets at the first workshop and throughout the program. Several workshops suggest online resources; be sure to preview the websites and test Internet connections in advance.

Decide whether the group needs extra meetings for additional activities or a long-term Faith in Action project. Before you set your calendar or commit to a project outside the regular meeting time or location, obtain the support of your congregational leadership and the youth’s families.

Making the Anklet

Youth begin a braided anklet in Workshop 1 and add a bead to it in each subsequent workshop. Choose a braiding fiber, such as hemp, string, or embroidery floss. Choose beads for youth to decorate. Each anklet will use up to 12 beads. You can purchase cork beads online from KitKraft. Other options are large wooden or glass beads. Obtain decorating materials—for example, waterproof markers, acrylic paint—that will stick to the surface of the beads you plan to use.

Plan how you will instruct participants to make the anklet (Workshop 1) and where you will store anklets-in-progress and extra materials between workshops. It is recommended that you give each youth a clipboard to work on their anklet for the duration of the program. You might ask someone with craft skills to help you choose materials and demonstrate at the first few workshops. Watch an instructional video online, such as How to Make a Simple Beaded Hemp Anklet on YouTube. The How To Make Jewelry website has a page on anklets, with several demonstration videos. Consider arranging for a computer with Internet access to show the youth these videos during Workshop 1.

Mandated Reporting

As a teacher, you may be required by law and/or your congregation’s policies to report information youth share that involves a youth hurting someone or being hurt, or any situation that could be construed as illegal or dangerous that involves youth. Ask your religious educator what is expected of you, including to whom you should report which kinds of information. The workshops guide you to state your role as a mandated reporter before inviting youth into personal sharing.