Internet
Explorer users will notice that the reviews are organized in a collapsible
outline. Simply click on a question and the answer will appear below it.
Resource: Faith Home.
Published by: Abingdon Press.
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What is the title of the resource, who publishes it, and is it denominationally affiliated?
Faith Home, published by Abingdon Press of the United Methodist Church. - For
what setting(s) is this resource designed (i.e. home, camp, church, etc.)?
This program is specifically formulated to allow families to develop their faith in their home setting. There is a Sunday morning program that serves as a support for the participants, but the primary work is to be done in the family's home. - What
are the central goals of the resource?
The authors of this curriculum recognize that the home is a very influential setting and want to utilize that influence to help guide parents and children in their faith development. The program seeks to encourage parent-child discussions on: -God of the Trinity -the Church -Christian worship -Understanding sacramental living - What
is the basic content or subject matter?
The resource contains materials for daily discussions, scriptural reading and exploration and questions for reflection. - For
what age(s) is this resource intended?
The resource is ideally suited for families with children from ages 4-12, but it also provides appropriate outlets and opportunities for older and younger children as well. - How
does the resource explicitly or implicitly understand the age groups for
which it is intended – what is its developmental, cultural, psychological,
spiritual, etc. view of the needs, interests and abilities of the learners?
This program is extremely child-oriented, offering those parents who facilitate the learning experience helpful tips on how to present to different ages. It details what certain aged children are likely to grasp and what they may need to help in their understanding. - As
this resource seems to understand it, what IS “learning”?
It appears that the authors would define learning in this resource as 'growing, experiencing and developing together'. - What
are the central teaching/learning methods used, and how do they relate to
the resource’s understanding of the age group?
There is, of course, time set aside for study and discussion of the Scriptures. But there is also time for shared activities and experiential learning that pertains to the noted text. - Does
the resource include Biblical or theological material?
If so, specifically what is this material and how is it approached or
handled?
The resource makes it clear that the Bible is central to the discussions and learning. It also gives a significant amount of attention to different creeds that have been an established part of the Church's history. The authors offer options on how to address this material with older and younger youths. - What
are the strengths and weaknesses of this resource?
Strengths: + Doesn't require a large amount of prior experience with / knowledge of the Bible + Extremely child friendly + Family oriented + Effective tool for building family unity + Encourages sharing +Beneficial toward developing good spiritual habits + Broad definition of "family" (single parent, dual career, blended, etc.) + Strongly integrated with the church Weaknesses - Not a good option for the typical 'family-on-the-run" - Large amount of time investment - Requires significant amount of time for preparation
