We turned off the lights and created darkness.

Basically, I take paper boxes (the boxes that reams of paper are shipped in) and label them for each religion: i.e. UU, Hindu, Christian, Islam, Buddhist, etc. I put religious artifacts in each that will enhance the classroom experience.

My box on Islam contains, a prayer rug, the compass to find east, Koran, several videos, a book from the Islamic Center for each grade, and any interesting pictures that I have found.

The Buddhist box has a statue of Buddha, red cloth, silk lotus flowers, incense and incense burner, pictures and/or articles.

The Jewish Box contains Mezuzahs, color pictures of Mezuzahs from a Jewish catalog, Yamikas, a menorah and candles, booklets on the Jewish religion, a Passover plate for children, a shofar, etc.

I think you get the picture.

I find that young children, especially, are more engaged when they can see and touch these items. Teachers appreciate having these items available to them as well.