School is out! We hear many children say, “I’m bored!” or “there’s nothing to do!” Here are a few ideas to help children grow in their understanding of Stewardship as a Way of Life.

Planting the seed of stewardship: Give children several bean seeds and a small pot or plot of ground. Have them prepare the soil, plant the seed, and give it water. Make sure it is in the sunshine! Talk to them about the importance of taking care of God’s seed. (The seeds will sprout quickly in the summer heat!)

Have a neighborhood talent show: Talk to your children about how everyone has been given a talent from God, and they could plan a special show to entertain the neighbors, family members, and friends. Encourage them to recruit participants with a variety of talents such as: singing, dancing, showing an art project, telling a story, reading a poem, showing an athletic skill. Decide on a place, date, and time. They should create invitations and handle all the work.

Plan and carry out a neighborhood clean-up and recycle day: Make one day each week your stewardship of your neighborhood day. Give each child a garbage bag and latex gloves. Make one garbage bag for recyclables and the other for garbage. Go for a walk, picking up the trash and putting it in the proper bag. When you get back to your house, put the material collected in the proper receptacle.

Write a Litany of Gratitude: Give your children a special notepad and pencil for recording a Litany of Gratitude. Ask them to write down things for which they are grateful all during the day. Some examples might be a kind word from a friend, a beautiful flower, the softness of a puppy, some help with chores, a favorite song, a refreshing swim, cold lemonade, etc. At the end of the day make the litany part of your night prayer. Have as a response, “Thank you, God, and help us to care for all you have given us.”