Ages 6–10 with a grown-up · 15 minutes each week
Four weeks with the saints
Choose a regular time, gather paper and pencils, and let each person take part in a way that works for them.
Use your browser’s print dialog. These original activities may be copied for home and parish use with the Life of the Saints credit.
A simple rhythm for every week
Read for 4 minutes, talk for 4 minutes, try the activity for 5 minutes, and finish with 2 minutes of prayer. If attention is short, choose just one question. No preparation beyond opening the story is needed.
Week 1
Listen with care
Read: Benedict learns to listen. Read aloud, or let a confident reader help.
Talk
What helped the monks live together? When is it hard to listen at home?
Try it
Take turns speaking for one minute about something you enjoy. The listener repeats one thing they heard before taking a turn.
Pray
Dear God, help us listen before we answer and notice what others need. Amen.
During the week: Ask, “When did we get to practice this?” Notice effort; avoid turning kindness into a contest.
Week 2
Notice a small kindness
Read: Thérèse and the little way. Read aloud, or let a confident reader help.
Talk
What made Thérèse’s way “little”? What small kindness would be useful today?
Try it
Draw a paper flower. Write or draw one kind action on each petal. Each person chooses one to practice.
Pray
Dear God, help us put love into the small things we do. Amen.
During the week: Ask, “When did we get to practice this?” Notice effort; avoid turning kindness into a contest.
Week 3
Welcome a person
Read: John Bosco welcomes young people. Read aloud, or let a confident reader help.
Talk
What might a newcomer need to know? How can we invite someone without pressuring them?
Try it
Pretend someone is visiting for the first time. Practice introducing yourself, explaining one thing and offering a choice of activities.
Pray
Dear God, help us make room for others and respect their choices. Amen.
During the week: Ask, “When did we get to practice this?” Notice effort; avoid turning kindness into a contest.
Week 4
Turn care into action
Read: Vincent turns care into action. Read aloud, or let a confident reader help.
Talk
Why did Vincent work with other people? How can we find out what help is wanted?
Try it
Choose a small household or parish task. Ask what is needed, decide who will do each part, and agree on a day to finish.
Pray
Dear God, help us work together and serve with respect. Amen.
During the week: Ask, “When did we get to practice this?” Notice effort; avoid turning kindness into a contest.
After the fourth week
Ask each person which story they would like to revisit. Choose another of the fourteen children’s stories, or use the family reflection sheet with a saint of your choice.
Life of the Saints · lifeofthesaints.com · Original learning resource