Written by Sue Downing.
Published by Discipleship Resources, Nashville, 1998.
-
What is the aim, purpose, or goal of this particular study?
This resources aims to help adults 1)commit themselves to sharing Christian faith with their children and 2)discover concrete, practical ways to grow with their children spiritually. - How does this resource define spirituality?
What terms does this resource prefer to use?
The resource does not use the term “spirituality,” but regularly refers to “growing spiritually.” “Growing spiritually” is a lifelong process of deepening and extending one’s Christian faith. To help children grow spiritually is to equip them to live a Christian life, by offering them some basics or rudiments for this lifelong process. It does not give a formula for the perfect Christian life, but offers basic practices to nurture a Christian life. - Do you see any particular theological perspective or
agenda within this material? If so, what is it?
The resource comes from one of the publishing arms of the United Methodist Church. Overall, the resource should be usable by parents in most mainline Protestant denominations, since the concepts and ideas are not overly colored by Wesleyan theology. In the chapter and session on “attending church,” the sacraments of baptism and communion are defined in Wesleyan terms, but even those explanations should not conflict with Presbyterian or Lutheran perspectives (Baptists would have a different perspective on baptism and the Lord’s Supper). - Which spiritual disciplines, if any, are included in
the resource? (such as fasting, meditation, lectio divina)
Praying with and for our children Reading and studying the Bible with children Attending church together with children, with an emphasis on corporate worship, sacraments, and observing the seasons of the church year Walking through Valleys of pain, sorrow, disappointment and grief with children - For whom is this resource intended? (age
group, interests, etc.) In what settings? (classroom, home,
etc.)
The resource is primarily intended for parents, especially those with infants, preschool, and elementary aged children. It could also be helpful for teachers of these age groups and for the pastors and educators in a congregation. The book is designed with a chapter on each of the basic practices (prayer, Bible, worship, walking through valleys), which parents could use at home for their own study; the second half of the book contains a study guide with session plans on each chapter, so it can be used with a group of parents and teachers in the church as well. - What is included when you purchase this resource?
(books, teaching aids, etc.) What is the cost of this resource?
For $16.95, you get a 96-page book that includes a chapter on each basic practice, an annotated resource bibliography for parents and teachers, and a group study guide with session plans on each basic practice. - Is the Bible used as a resource in any of the
sessions? How is it referred to?
The Bible is used in each chapter of the book, with chapter 2 focused solely on engaging the Bible with children. In this resource, the Bible is seen as the basis for our faith. It offers us the basic story of God’s love and it guides us in how to live in response to God’s love. We continually grow with and learn from the Bible (it does not give us automatic, one-time only guidance). In order to grow with the Bible, we must always engage in study and exploration of it. - What type of learning activities are included in the
lessons? For instance, is there group work as well as individual
reflection time?
Each chapter contains a host of practical ideas for parents to try with their children (for example praying through music, teaching the Lord’s Prayer, involving children in prayerful expression in art and dance, etc.). Then, each session plan in the study guide follows this format: Prayer Reflection and discussion of the chapter for this session Practical experiences to try at home during the week, and share at the next group session - Is
there a teacher for the study? What does the teacher need to know/do
prior to each lesson?
When using the book with a group of parents (following the study guide), the group needs a “facilitator,” rather than an instructor or someone who teaches the material. - What
is your overall evaluation of the resource? (strengths and weakness,
etc.)
This is a good, basic, straightforward, practical resource that offers real guidance in Christian practices and life, for Protestant parents. It is inexpensive, concrete, and useful. Theologically, it can be used by a range of people and churches. Its greatest strength lies in the very practical activities and ideas it offers.