Teaching Our Children

Sunday School Programming
(Preschool-8th Grades)

RE Chapel (10:30 AM) - Our Sunday mornings will begin with RE Chapel in fellowship Hall. Chapel will be for children preschool through the 6th grade, their teachers, parents, siblings and all other members/friends of UUCDC who wish to attend. New to UUCDC, we anticipate everyone will grow to like this part of our Sunday morning together. Chapel will be lead by our Director of Religious Education and we will also have occasion guest leaders, including Rev. Peter Friedrichs. Chapel will include but not be limited to music and singing, an offertory, meditation and a story.

Sunday Morning Classes - Our Sunday School program this year will be curriculum based as opposed to the workshop rotation model used the last 2 years. Curriculum has been chosen carefully to provide a comprehensive religious education experience for children moving through our programming. We are looking forward to using several new, highly recommended curricula this year and expect the lessons to be fun and engaging for everyone.

Intergenerational (IG) Worship provides an opportunity for adults and children to worship together for the entire Sunday service. Held once per month, Intergenerational Worship

Services are interactive as well as spiritual.

Preschoolers (Ages 3-5)

Through We Are Many, We Are One, our young children will begin to learn about their Unitarian Universalist religious community and traditions while playing & working cooperatively. Using their minds, bodies, and emotions, they will have the freedom to discover and express feelings about their uniqueness, and begin to see our congregations as a place for making friends, caring for others, and celebrating religion and culture together.

Using the Unitarian Universalist Alphabet, we'll introduce some important people and events in our religious history.

Kindergarteners

Using the theme of treasure hunting, Treasure Hunters is a concrete way of involving children in the excitement of the search for the meaning of life. It addresses issues that children face daily, explores the meaning of Unitarian Universalist principles and values, and emphasizes an accepting and caring community. During the first part of the year, themes will focus on treasuring our own and others' thoughts and feelings. During the second half of the year the focus will turn outward to explore the treasures of our church, our UU Principles, our world community and the inter-connected web of life.

Addressing the spiritual and theological needs of young children, Stories About God looks at God as the central symbol in a religious communication system. This liberal and eclectic theology is story-based and covers three themes: God is a oneness that can take many forms; God is love and worth that can take many forms; and God is mystery that can take many forms. Various stories from a wide spectrum of cultures and religious faiths explore the ideas of creation and beginnings, and love and nurture and community.

Grades 1 & 2

Free to Believe explores Unitarian Universalist principles and sources while nurturing the emotional, social, and spiritual life of children. Its first sessions focus on UU principles, values, and beliefs through hands-on activities, stories, games, songs and discussions. Children address the conflicts they often face, and create an accepting classroom community. Later sessions focus on life's big questions (about God, death, the creation of life) through the lens of UU sources.

Rainbow Children: Racial Justice & Diversity addresses racial and ethnic prejudice while affirming the inherent worth and beauty of the child, the family, the community, and the diversity of humankind. Beginning with the United Nations Declaration of the Rights of the Child, it celebrates the differences and commonalities of all people.

Grade 3

A Stepping Stone Year provides elementary age children with further structured steps in forming, understanding, and expressing their own religious identities and concepts within the context of the Unitarian Universalist tradition. Hands-on methods include a rich variety of learning activities, experiences with the arts, field trips, social gatherings and research projects. We invite our children to be stimulated by their own thinking and decision-making via myths and stories of various religions and cultures, the natural sciences, and biographies and ideals of famous Unitarian Universalists of the past and present. We'll end the year with an inter- active study of the Seven Principles of Unitarian Universalism, and a ceremony of affirmation.

In Our Hands: A Peace & Social Justice Program involves young people in considering the nature and meaning of peace and social justice by exploring the nature of conflict, paths to peace and justice, common UU faith stances and their relationship to peace and justice, peacemakers and justice-builders, UU worship services for peace and justice, and other topics.

Grade 4

Designed especially for active children, Spirit of Adventure tackles unique themes, such as sports, medicine, architecture, science and food, and emphasizing active play such as circus arts, a "take-apart party," obstacle course, and a treasure hunt while exploring Unitarian Universalist Identity and our seven principles. The program moves through eight themes: Sports, Medicine, Food, Holidays, Science, Building, Exploring and Web of Life.

Honoring Our Mother Earth: Experiences in Native American Spirituality explores the web of life while learn from the wisdoms of Native American peoples. Experiential in approach, sessions encourage discovery through earth-based traditions, myths and stories, song and dance, arts & crafts.

Grade 5

Bibleodeon is a fun and exciting introduction to Hebrew and Christian scriptures, presenting the best-known Hebrew and Christian stories with such props as the Bibleodeon microphone and such interactive challenges as investigating the Cain-Abel crime scene. Participants act in dramatic play-lets, illustrate a time line, keep doodle books, give awards to outstanding biblical women, and more. They explore connections between biblical events and Unitarian Universalist principles, between biblical ideas and their own lives. They experience the Bible as one of the many wonderful Unitarian Universalist sources of wisdom.

Seeing Red: An Anger Management & Peace Making Program helps elementary-aged students better understand their anger so they can make healthy and successful choices and build strong relationships. Via role playing common situations, identifying associated feelings, problem solving, recognizing negative behaviors and anticipating consequences, children learn from and empower each other while increasing self-esteem.

Grade 6

Many Waters, a novel by Madeleine L'Engle, follows twin brothers blown back into the pre-flood days of Noah. We'll read the book together and use it to explore UU principles, create art projects, experiment, play games and build an ark!

Jesus and His Kingdom of Equals focuses on the teachings of Jesus as an ancestral source of modern UUism. We'll learn about the historical Jesus and the times in which he lived, reflecting on important life themes such as forgiveness, equality, and justice - values which remain true in any era.

When She Was Young explores Earth-based and other holistic religions of the Earth Mother, and the Great Goddess.

7th & 8th Grade O.W.L. Class
Sunday Mornings 10am-12noon, meeting offsite

The 7th/8th grade Our Whole Lives (OWL) Program presents a comprehensive approach to human sexuality in an age-appropriate manner. Based firmly on the values of respect, responsibility, justice and inclusivity, OWL helps young people apply these values to their behavior and provides them with information and skills they can use throughout life. The program includes a comprehensive parent orientation. Sessions are held on Sunday mornings, offsite, from 10 AM to 12 PM.

Our Whole Lives (OWL) is a series of sexuality education curricula for five age groups:
grades K-1, grades 4-6, grades 7-9, grades 10-12, and adults.

K-1 and 4-5 OWL classes will be offered again in the 2009-10 church year.

And Returning Next Year... The Neighboring Faiths Program guides young people in encounters with the traditions of other religious groups in our community. Participants will explore what members of other faiths believe, value, and do as religious people; discover ways to understand the new multi-religious reality; and learn the meaning of Unitarian Universalism and our foundational commitment to religious freedom. An aspect of the year is an exploration of social justice. Offered to 7th & 8th Graders in alternate years, it will be offered again in 2009-10.

2007-8 Sunday School Calendar

Sep. 30	Ingathering	Intergenerational Worship
Oct. 7	Rosh Hashanan 9/13	RE Chapel & Morning Classes
Oct. 14	Yom Kippur 9/22	RE Chapel & Morning Classes
Oct. 21		RE Chapel & Morning Classes
Oct. 28	Columbus Day	RE Chapel & Morning Classes
Nov. 4		RE Chapel & Morning Classes
Nov. 11		Intergenerational Worship
Nov. 18	Halloween	RE Chapel & Morning Classes
Nov. 25		RE Chapel & Morning Classes
Dec. 2		RE Chapel & Morning Classes
Dec. 9		Intergenerational Worship
Dec. 16	Thanksgiving	Large RE Session
Dec. 23	Hanukah	RE Chapel & Morning Classes
Dec. 30	Deck Halls worship	Intergenerational Worship
Jan. 6		RE Chapel & Morning Classes
Jan. 13		Holiday Pageant
Jan. 20		Large RE Session
Jan. 27		RE Chapel & Morning Classes
Feb. 3		RE Chapel & Morning Classes
Feb. 10	MLK Jr Day, 21st	RE Chapel & Morning Classes
Feb. 17		RE Chapel & Morning Classes
Feb. 24		RE Chapel & Morning Classes
Mar. 2		Intergenerational Worship
Mar. 9	Pres. Day (Con)	Large RE Session
Mar. 16		RE Chapel & Morning Classes
Mar. 23		RE Chapel & Morning Classes
Mar. 30		RE Chapel & Morning Classes
Apr. 6		RE Chapel & Morning Classes
Apr. 13	Easter	Intergenerational Worship
Apr. 20		RE Chapel & Morning Classes
Apr. 27		RE Chapel & Morning Classes
May. 4		RE Chapel & Morning Classes
May. 11	Passover	RE Chapel & Morning Classes
May. 18		Intergenerational Worship
May. 25		RE Chapel & Morning Classes
Jun. 1	Mother's Day	RE Chapel & Morning Classes
Jun. 8		RE Chapel & Morning Classes
Jun. 15		Large RE Session
Jun. 22		RE Chapel & Morning Classes
Jun. 29		RE Chapel & Morning Classes
39248	Father's Day	Intergenerational Worship

UUCDC's Youth Programming Rocks!

6th - 12th grades

UUCDC has worked hard over the years to expand our youth programming. This year we are happy to offer all of our youth, both middle school and high school, quality Sunday morning & evening programming. Middle school youth grades 6-8th will enjoy both Sunday morning classes and a once per month social group. Our high school age youth will continue their Sunday evening programming. If you have an interest in working with our youth as a class leader, mentor, or a short term volunteer, please contact Marge Caton, our Youth Programming Team Leader. There's a magic that happens in working with our youth that we hope everyone will get to experience.

Middle School Activity Group Second Saturdays (mostly), 5-8:30 pm We'll continue our Social Activity Group for our Middle Schoolers, grades 6-8 with once per month Saturday evening gatherings. We'll gather for fun & creative social events, games, social justice projects and fellowship... creating the year's activity calendar together. The group will also participate in regional events with other UU Middle All church and community middle schoolers are welcome! Contact Jody Malloy or Irene Friedrichs for an updated calendar and more information.

Our RE Community Rights & Responsibilities
Children, Youth & Adults

Through our Covenant of Mutual Respect, we can provide a positive and meaningful group experience, if everyone follows these guidelines:

I HAVE A RIGHT to be happy and to be treated with kindness; this means that no one will laugh at me, ignore me, or hurt my feelings.

I HAVE A RESPONSIBILITY to treat other with respect and to be kind in my words and actions.

I HAVE THE RIGHT to be myself; this means that no one will treat me unfairly because I am fat or thin, fast or slow, boy or girl.

I HAVE THE RESPONSIBILITY to treat others fairly.

I HAVE THE RIGHT to be safe; this means that no one will hit me, kick me, push me or pinch me.

I HAVE THE RESPONSIBILITY to treat others gently; this means that I will not hit, kick, push or pinch others in my class.

I HAVE THE RIGHT to hear and be heard; this means that no one will yell, scream or shout, and my opinions and desires will be considered in any plans we make.

I HAVE THE RESPONSIBILITY to listen to my friends, respect their opinions and consider their desires in any plans we make.

I HAVE THE RIGHT to learn about myself; this means that I will be free to express my feelings and opinions without being interrupted or punished.

I HAVE THE RESPONSIBILITY to allow others to express themselves without fear of ridicule and to listen respectfully.

Community Safety Covenant
from the RE Council & Church Coordinating Council

In Keeping with the UUCDC's "Safe Congregation Policy" and honoring our first principle to maintaining respect for everyone in our community, the RE & Church Coordinating Councils have mandated the following Church Safety Covenant:

Parental Supervision: Children 10 and under must be under direct, visual supervision by a parent, guardian, or other designated caregiver (adult, hired sitter, or older sibling over the age of 14) at all times when children are not in Religious Education. We urge parents to keep track of where your children are and with whom.

Inside the Building: Children should not run through hallways or rooms in the church. Running in the church, especially in and around Fellowship Hall and the Lobby, is dangerous. Small children may take older adults by surprise, causing hot coffee spills and other accidental injuries. Parents and guardians are responsible for coaching their children about this hazard and correcting improper behaviors.

Outside the Building: Children 10 and under may not be left unattended outside the church building - on the playground, on the front or back lawn, in the memorial garden, or anywhere else on church property. Children playing outside without direct adult supervision are at risk from cars leaving the parking lot and are a genuine liability issue. Parents should never assume that someone else is watching their children.

RE Teacher Recruitment: All class leaders and volunteers will be a member or have had regular attendance for the past six months. Volunteer class leaders will sign a code of ethics and will agree to submit to criminal background checks and a child abuse clearance upon random request.

The DRE, Coming of Age mentors and advisors, youth group advisors, and Our Whole Lives instructors will not be subject to open recruitment, but will be nominated by the RE Council, the DRE and the Minister. Criminal background checks and a child abuse clearances will be obtained from this group.

General Classroom Safety Guideline: There will be two adults in the classroom during religious education sessions and on off campus trips. Class leaders and volunteers will notify DRE if their group is outside of the building. Signed fieldtrip permission slips will be obtained at registration and will be on file with the DRE.

The Director of Religious Education (DRE) will be immediately notified if a child is injured or ill. A report will be filed with the DRE documenting any accident.

Disruptive behavior challenges our sense of individual and communal safety and well-being,. The policy regarding disruptive behavior includes four levels of response including the permanent exclusion from the church and its premises.

In the event of a suspected unhealthy relationship:

(verbal, emotional or sexual abuse or inappropriate behavior towards another individual during an RE session) the incident must be reported to the DRE, minister, or in the absence of both, the Board of Trustees President.

After Worship-Pick-Up: All Sunday School children, must be picked up from their designated classrooms/fellowship hall by their parents/guardians promptly at 11:45 am. They will not be released until their parents/guardians arrive.

Permission for Community Parenting: is assumed when children are found unattended. As a trusting church community we give one another permission to sensitively redirect behavior that any adult considers dangerous, disrespectful or in violation of this covenant . As parents we will gracefully accept reminders that our children need more direct supervision.

Interpreting Safety: Recognizing that "safety" can have varying interpretations, and yet wanting all of our families, our elders, and our visitors to feel welcome and comfortable in our community, let's make it our ultimate goal to respect and look after one another.

Thanks for your Understanding,

Mark Bernstein, Coordinating Council
& Rich Cairncross, REC

What is Expected of Parents & Guardians?

Register your child or children, babies and youth too, so that they are on our class mailing lists and we have the appropriate number of volunteers and supplies for each class. In addition, if there is an emergency, by having your child registered, we would be able to make appropriate contacts. A link to the registration form can be found a the bottom of this page.

Our yearly registration fee is $25.00 per child (maximum fee is $50.00 per family). If you are attending services and your children are coming with you, they must be registered. Please contact Jean Campbell, Director of Religious Education, to obtain a registration form or if you would like to discuss scholarship assistance. Financial support is available for those who need it.

Parents are expected to participate. Our program is cooperative and its success depends on the involvement of all parents. Please consider joining a teaching team, , being a RE Council member, helping in or coordinating the Cradle Room, or Holiday pageant coordinator, a Coming of Age Mentor or Mentor Coordinator, an Adult RE facilitator or a summer RE coordinator, greeter /Helper. Please volunteer to share your special talents, skills, or interests with our children. Additionally, at the beginning of each semester, each family will be called upon to provide a snack and/or assist the teachers in their child's class at least twice per semester.

Read our church newsletter, the Focus. Our monthly newsletter, the Focus is the means through which the Director of Religious Education and the RE Council can communicate important information to the parents.

Bring your children regularly. Regular attendance enables your child to benefit from the lessons well prepared by his/her volunteer teachers and to receive the accumulated effect of the curriculum Attending regularly gives your child a chance to make friends and form bonds with other UU children. Share your ideas and beliefs with your children. Make Unitarian Universalism a way of life by discussing the Principles and Purposes and the theme of your child's Sunday morning lesson.

Toys. Children may bring a special toy to share with the class. However, the teachers and Director of Religious Education cannot be responsible for the toy, if it is lost or broken. Please do not bring toy guns or weapons to Church. These toys lead to aggressive behavior. As Unitarian Universalists, we strive to teach our children ways to deal with conflict peacefully.

FALL '07 Religious Education Registration!

Religious Education at UUCDC is everyone's business. It takes a lot of people to make sure the program runs smoothly. Whether you are a parent of a child(ren) or youth in the program or not, your participation is the key to the success of the program.

Registration Form

Please note: The RE Registration Form is in PDF format, which means that it can only be read using Adobe Acrobat Reader. If you are not sure whether your computer has this program, click on the icon for Registration Form link. Your system will let you know whether you have it. If you need a copy of Adobe Acrobat Reader, free copies are available from Adobe. Just click on the icon to be taken to their website.

Free download of Adobe Acrobat Reader