Guest Author - Alice Rienzo

Previously, we looked at how orderly planning can be an asset and time blocking can be a drawback when dealing with little ones. Toddlers do not understand the concept of time, and as such, they will send obvious cues as to when they are ready to move on – with or without you! In this section, we will focus on the time from the snack and lesson through the end of the day.

Once the children are ready for snack time to begin, turn off the music and have the children sit around the table. Help one of the children, possible your snack helper, with a prayer before the snack is served. Even as an adult, I still struggle with wanting to dive right into my food when it is in front of me! It is even worse for kids. I allow the children to take part in a family-style snack where a bowl is passed around and they are allowed to help themselves. This gives them a sense of pride, ownership and a “can do” attitude. In addition, I prefer to provide sippy cups; one labeled with each child’s name and/or photo. This eliminates many frustrations for children and leaders alike.

After everyone has been served, begin the lesson. One of the pitfalls many Nursery Leaders fall into is reading directly out of the manual. You will most certainly lose the interest of a toddler if you develop this habit. A lesson should be prayerfully prepared prior to Sunday morning. Although this is not always possible, it is desirable. Children know when adults are not prepared and they will capitalize on that disorganization. Here are a few tips to breathe life into your lessons:

• Tell a story
• Make eye contact
• Be verbally and physically expressive
• Use props such as stuffed animals or puppets
• Offer the children their own props to use while you use yours
• Note: Flannel boards are okay at this age, but you may encounter many
obstacles (i.e. taking the pieces down or fighting over the pieces)

Following the snack/lesson, have the children help you clean up, then engage them in some active songs or even a walk around the meeting house. If you do decide to take a walk, please make sure the children are dressed appropriately for the weather. This can be an awesome opportunity to get the children to open up and engage in conversation with you. Be sure to collect something along the way as a keepsake.

Finally, a peaceful way to end the day would be to offer a quiet activity. These could include:

• An activity that goes with the lesson
• Play dough
• Painting
• Sticker art
• Coloring
• Lacing
• Educational table toys

Once all the children have left, you can breathe a sigh of relief. You made it! Give yourself a pat on the back, and then begin planning for next week. :-)