SPOTLIGHT ON: TREASURE HUNTING

Robyn M. Perrin, Member of the Children’s RE Ministry Team

Every weekend this year, a total of 32 kindergarteners and first graders at First Unitarian Society have been gathering with their volunteer teachers for the Treasure Hunting class. The curriculum introduces the basic tenets and principles of Unitarian Universalism as “treasures” that are added to a chest of learning through games, stories, music, and art.

When asked what they enjoyed most about teaching, many of the teachers noted the curiosity, creativity, and capabilities of Treasure Hunting students. “They come in with a lot of knowledge already and are eager to show what they know while learning new ideas and skills... they also have a great spirit of fun,” said Dory Lightfoot, PhD.

Mark DuRussell agreed, noting how much the students enjoy expressing themselves. “They’re delightful. We’re constantly amazed at their unique insights!”

A recent 9 am Sunday class provided a chance to observe the students and teachers in action. Students filed in, and a brief movement activity helped “get the wiggles out” and set the stage for teachers Florence Edwards Miller and Melissa Apland to describe the focus of the lesson: creation stories.

Everyone formed a circle on the classroom rug and participated in an opening ritual that included a chalice lighting with battery-operated votive candles, and sharing joys and concerns. Edwards Miller and Apland then guided the class, alternating stories with movement activities, capping the class off with an invitation to create drawings of what each student imagined the beginning of the universe to look like while Edwards Miller read a book titled The Everything Seed: A Story of Beginnings.

“This is the first class in which students talk about Big Ideas—our UU principles, ideas of God, Creation, Joy, Fear, Happiness, etc.,” said teacher Vicki Jones.

The most important goal, Jones explained, is helping the students connect with each other. Outdoor time on the playground, hide-andseek, and story time of any kind have all proven to be treasured moments in addition to the lessons themselves.

“This class provides an opportunity to learn, yes, but mostly it’s about building community among the children,” said Jones, adding that regular attendance is the key to success for nurturing strong bonds between classmates.

When asked how FUS members can best support Treasure Hunting students and teachers, several teachers emphasized inclusion. “I want the community to remember that FUS is not just for adults,” said Lightfoot. “All of us are part of the community—including the youngest members. And preschool and early elementary school children have not yet become bored with interactions with adults. They are still very interested in adult attention or interaction.”

Ultimately, the teachers felt they have learned as much from Treasure Hunting students as vice versa. Gwen Pine felt that teaching Treasure Hunting gave her a sense of connectedness to the youth of FUS, describing them as inspiring. “They understand these concepts much better than I thought and are willing to talk about it. The world is going to be just fine when they are in charge!”