Youth Curriculum, 1-12-25
Curriculum Overview:
Youth will explore how embracing their unique qualities and making space for new possibilities can empower them to create positive change in their lives. They create a fun, collaborative art project to symbolize embracing their true selves, fostering creativity, joy, and personal growth.
January Monthly Theme: Stretching into Possibility
Week 2 Value: Making Space for It
Affirmation: “I welcome calm thoughts and make space for new and exciting possibilities.”
Spiritual Lesson:
Youth will explore how their thoughts shape their feelings and experiences through creative activities, storytelling, and mindfulness practices. They will leave with tools to release mental clutter, focus on positive thinking, and create space for joy and new possibilities in their daily lives.
Mindfulness: Balloon of Thoughts
In this playful meditation, children imagine blowing up a balloon filled with their worries and letting it float away, symbolizing release. They then visualize a new balloon filled with joy and peace, gently bringing it back to their hearts to feel calm and refreshed.
Active Listening: Book/Music/Video
Book: What Do You Do With an Idea? by Kobi Yamada
Music: “A Beautiful Day” by India Arie
Book: A Little Spot of Mindfulness by Diane Alber (younger class)
Music: “The World Is a Rainbow” by Greg & Steve (younger class)
Creative Expression: Mental Clutter Cleanup
Youth visualize their mental “clutter” by drawing a thought bubble filled with worries or distractions. Then, they create a second bubble showcasing positive, uplifting thoughts and images. Through sharing and discussion, they learn how clearing mental clutter can make space for joy and peace.
Connecting: Power of Thoughts
Youth children explore how their thoughts influence their feelings and experiences, using relatable examples like gratitude and kindness to highlight the impact of positive thinking. During the closing, the group revisits the affirmation and is encouraged to practice the “Balloon of Thoughts” meditation and reflect on their “clean bubble” throughout the week.