We light this chalice for our children and youth, and for us:
celebrating the flame of faith lit in each of us,
honoring the light each of us bring into the world,
rejoicing in the community we create together.
—Christian Schmidt (UU Minister)
Children’s Activities (Kindergarten-7th Grade, Fall 2021)
Beginning in September 2021, multi-age Religious Education activities for children in kindergarten-7th grade will be held most Sundays during each worship service. Activities will be held primarily outdoors as a safety measure in light of the ongoing pandemic (weather permitting).
Fall activities are designed primarily to provide opportunities for children to experience community and connection with others in their church and to explore the natural world and our connections with the outdoors. Here’s sampling of some of the planned activities (subject to change):
- Exploring characteristics of different animals and how their traits connect with UU values, using Character Building With True Stories from Nature.
- Creating Thanksgiving cards to send to Eliot homebound members
- Periodic guest speakers from the congregation to share about various Eliot ministries and how children can participate (such as Kirkcare Food Outreach and Pastoral Care).
- Outdoor craft activities connected with the natural world, such as creating bird feeders.
- Outdoor games and activities to foster connection and fun for all ages.
Health & Safety During Covid-19: Click here to learn more about our health and safety protocols for children’s programs (K-7) during the Covid-19 pandemic.
Family Field Trips (Fall 2021)
Families with children in 7th grade and younger (including nursery and preschool) are encouraged to participate in a series of Family Field Trips planned throughout the fall of 2021. These outings are designed for children and their parents/caregivers and will be held at outdoor locations in the St. Louis area. These outings aim to provide children and families with opportunities for fun and connection with others from the Eliot community and provide chances to explore the natural world and our connection with nature. Each field trip will include an outdoor Religious Education experience for families and children and time for fellowship.
Field trips are tentatively planned for September 26, October 10, and October 31 at the following locations:
- Powder Valley Nature Center (Sept. 26)
- Suson Park & Barnyard (October 10)
- Simpson Lake & Park (October 31)
Field trips are tentatively scheduled from 10:30-12:00 on these dates. More specific details about each outing will be shared with registered families closer to the dates.
NOTE: On field trip dates, children’s activities for grades K-7 will not be held at Eliot Chapel. Childcare for children in nursery and preschool will be provided.
Inclement Weather Days
On days when weather prohibits outdoor activities, we’ll gather in Adams Hall to allow more space for distancing and movement and incorporate sessions from CartUUns and Popcorn Theology. These are UU curricula which use Disney and Pixar short films and well-known movies to create dialogue around UU values and principles.
Getting Involved
For more information about activities for children, or to learn more about how to get involved, contact Christie Lee at christie@eliotchapel.org.
