What happens in a class?
A class begins with prayer. The children share songs they have learned. A short story is told. The class reflects on a quality such as truthfulness, kindness, or perseverance, then practises that quality through activity, art, and games.
Classes follow a curriculum developed by the Ruhi Institute, organized into grades that take children gradually deeper into the study of the Word of God, the development of habits of service, and the formation of a noble character. Each class is unhurried, generous in its rhythm, and shaped by the children who are part of it.
Who teaches?
Most teachers in Ontario are not professional educators. They are youth, mothers, and neighbours who have decided to take this step of service. They prepare in small teams, study the lesson together, support one another in practice, and are accompanied by experienced friends. Teachers can study the third course of the institute to develop their capacities as teachers even furhter. Many find that teaching a children's class transforms not only the children but themselves.
Where classes are held?
Wherever the children are. Most often, in a host family's home or front lawn. In some neighbourhoods, in a community centre or a school after hours. In summer, often outdoors. A children's class needs no permission and no infrastructure beyond a place to sit, a teacher to teach, and children to take part.