"Storytelling is the most powerful way to put ideas into the world" - Robert McKee
A few years ago, I was at the local library and was disappointed at some of the literature that was being promoted for children. I began to wonder if we could do better. After all, children learn through stories! In fact, we all learn through stories--Jesus knew what he was doing using parables! Just sayin ;) It occurred to me...what if we had a Catholic kids storytime once a month? What if we focused on the saints, the liturgical season, or the liturgical themes of the month?
I began brainstorming. This storytime would likely be aimed towards preschoolers to young school agers (although I am sure it could be adapted as needed). This would also be a way to integrate ministries at the Church--perhaps you have an elderly group at church, a retired school teacher, or even a high schooler who is looking to help out or to earn volunteer hours.
For September, this is what I came up with....
September is dedicated to the Sorrowful Heart of Mary. On September 14th, we celebrate the Feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross.
Books:
This book tells the story of how St. Helen found the True Cross. It tells how St. Helen had found three crosses, and how the True Cross was found after a little girl was miraculously healed.
This Book tells the story of three trees that have big dreams of what they will become. Each tree becomes an important part of Jesus's mission, and the last tree becomes the Cross. This book can be previewed here.
Craft:
Catholic Icing has some wonderful cross crafts that can be found here. One craft idea (inspired by catholic icing) is to cut a sheet of white cardstock in half. Then, using a white crayon, draw a cross on it. You could also add a bible verse if you wish. Afterwards, have each child paint the cardstock with watercolors. Like St. Helen, the children will have fun "finding" the cross with their watercolors.
Younger children, or those who finish the craft early, may enjoy coloring this St. Helen page by TheCatholicKid.com
Music:
These songs could be played in the background during craft time, or they could be used for a dance between reading books. Some of these have hand motions for older kids to learn, or little kids may enjoy dancing with egg shakers like these.
The Old Rugged Cross by LifeTree Kids (This one includes arm motions)
Hallelujah for the Cross by Scotts Hill Kids (This one includes arm motions).
Take Home:
Hot cross buns could make for a wonderful snack or recipe to send home with kids. The recipe can be found here.
If you try this idea, let me know how it goes! Any suggestions of something to add or change, let me know! (I'll also be posting this in the group page for children's storytime.)
Blessings!
-Jenna
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