im·ag·i·na·tion
- The faculty or action of forming new ideas, or images or concepts of external objects not present to the senses: "a vivid imagination".
"Work smarter - not harder" they say (they are usually the ones not pulling their weight, but still...) Sometimes, we, as large group teachers and storytellers work too hard trying to create a set that draws kids in; we try too hard to create the world in which imagination can happen.
Imagine this...
Using the natural and thriving ability of children's imaginations, allow them to create the world they want.
How...
By using FANTASTIC and DESCRIPTIVE writing, create a world for their five senses. Bring the Bible to life by describing the way things might sound, taste, feel, smell and look like. Feel free to use music, lighting, and sound effects to assist in this process.
At the beginning of the lesson, explain that each of them will take their own journey through the world of their imagination. (This next part might sound a little new-age-y but just go with me...) Tell them each to lie down, close their eyes and begin playing some soft music then say a prayer to being the lesson.
A great topic for this lesson might be Heaven. Kids can allow their imaginations to show them what they think Heaven is like...
Another great topic for this might be the Crucifixion and Resurrection... (Whoa! The Crucifixion? Are you nuts Abbey?) Here's why... you don't know the limits to which they have been exposed to sadness and violence. By acting something out, you might expose little ones to ideas of brutality they would have never imagined themselves. By using their imagination (limited by their experience) they will IMAGINE AT THEIR LEVEL. So if you use generalized descriptions of events, the older kids might imagine something more realistic that the little ones who won't.
It's like teaching to each child individually.
As always, if you have any questions or want some advice or feedback - please mail me at abbey.mccormack@gmail.com.
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