We Are Many, We Are One
A Unitarian Universalist Preschool CurriculumBy Colleen M. McDonald
- Theme and Description
- This yearlong preschool curriculum offers children the grounding of a religious community and tradition, along with the freedom to discover and express their uniqueness. The underlying theme throughout is anti-bias and multicultural education, which celebrates diversity and interdependency.
- Goals for Participants
- To be affirmed in their individuality and self-esteem;
To affirm the uniqueness of others and value diversity;
To feel a sense of belonging and importance as part of a Unitarian Universalist community;
To help make their class a peaceable, friendly, and caring place;
To be part of an environment in which all aspects of life can be discussed;
To learn how Unitarian Universalists celebrate holidays;
To use their minds, bodies, senses, and emotions in responding to the world;
To gain awareness and appreciation for our interconnectedness with nature.
- Age Range
- Ages 3 to 5
- Size of Group
- 8 to 12 ideal
- Space Requirements
- A large, cheerful room with appropriate furniture and equipment, and floor space for circle time, activities, and snack time. Occasionally, access to safe outdoor space is needed.
- Number and Length of Sessions
- 36 sessions
Length: 1 to 1 1/2 hours - Leader Training
- Team teaching is recommended. The introduction provides valuable information for teachers on preschooler development, creating a positive and anti-biased learning environment, and classroom management.
- Leader Preparation
- 1 to 2 hours per session
- Strengths
- Includes excellent background information and resources for teachers.
Contains clear, well-organized session plans.
Features sessions that can stand alone.
Includes Family Newsletters and Participant Letters for home mailings to strengthen parent involvement and understanding of Unitarian Universalism.
Excellent activities include creative movement, cooperative games, songs, art projects, discussions, field trips.
A simple closing ritual promotes UU identity and values. - Limitations
- Recommends resources and activities beyond the capability of some 3 year olds.
Exceeds time estimates in some sessions, particularly for larger groups.
Requires careful teacher planning and advance preparation. - Adaptability
- With careful planning, can be used with children through age 6.
Session sequence can be adapted to seasons. - Unitarian Universalist Values
- Helps children identify with their peers and religious community, promotes their acceptance of one another, and nurtures spiritual and ethical growth. Affirms these UU Principles: the inherent worth and dignity of every person; justice, equity, and compassion in human relations; the goal of world community with peace, liberty, and justice for all; and respect for the interdependent web of existence of which we are a part.
Reviewed on June 30, 2004
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Curricula
