Youth Curriculum, 4-28-24
Announcements:
Youth & Family’s INSPIRE Life-Skills Workshop for Teens—Mastering Communication & Connection is this evening at 5 p.m. We will learn the art of effective communication, honing essential interviewing skills, building strong relationships, and mastering conflict resolution techniques. The workshops are open to teens 13-18 and offered by donation. Drop-ins are welcome. Please register on our website: Youth & Family and Life-Skills Workshops.
Curriculum Overview:
Youth embark on a journey of cosmic gentleness, exploring the interconnectedness of all existence and nurturing a deep sense of compassion for the cosmic community. Let’s celebrate the beauty of the cosmos and our role in spreading love and harmony throughout the universe.
April Monthly Theme: Giant Gentleness
Week 4 Value: Gentle Cosmic-ness
Affirmation: I take gentleness to a cosmic level and celebrate life!
Spiritual Lesson:
Today, we explore gentleness on a cosmic scale, celebrating life and embracing compassion in all aspects. Through discussions on humanity, nature, and our universal community, we aim to deepen our understanding and application of love.
Meditation Practice: Galactic Gratitude Walk
Youth take a mindful walk outdoors, observing the beauty of nature while expressing gratitude for the cosmic forces that sustain life. Along the way, participants collect natural items like leaves, stones, or flowers, each representing a unique aspect of the interconnected cosmic web.
Active Listening: Book/Music/Video
Book: “The Giving Tree” by Shel Silverstein: This classic tale explores the theme of selflessness and giving, emphasizing the interconnectedness between humans and nature.
Book: “The Peace Book” by Todd Parr: Todd Parr’s colorful and simple illustrations paired with affirming messages promote peace, kindness, and understanding among people.
Book: “Here We Are: Notes for Living on Planet Earth” by Oliver Jeffers: Through beautiful illustrations and thoughtful text, this book introduces young readers to the wonders of our planet and the importance of caring for it and each other.
Music: “Jupiter, the Bringer of Jollity” from Gustav Holst’s orchestral suite “The Planets.” This piece captures the majestic and joyful essence of the largest planet in our solar system, Jupiter.
Music: “Count on Me” by Bruno Mars – This upbeat and catchy song emphasizes the importance of friendship, kindness, and supporting one another, which resonates well with the values of compassion and interconnectedness.
Creative Expression: Interstellar Art Installation
Collaboratively create an art installation using recycled materials that reflect the interconnectedness of all beings in the cosmos. Each participant contributes a symbolic element, such as a planet, star, or galaxy, representing their role in the universal community.
Connecting/Spiritual Practice: Wrap-up/Cosmic Love Meditation
Youth share in a discussion about their activity experiences and participate in a Cosmic Love Meditation designed as a tool for managing stress and cultivating resilience while tuning into their sense of connection to the web of life.