An opportunity for elementary children to serve in a variety of ways, at such places as health care centers, day-care centers, and community centers. Select a day of the week that works best for both children and adult sponsors.
Allow time prior to each activity for orientation, explaining to the children what to expect and what will be encountered. For example, prior to visiting a health care center you may want to play “The Aging Game”with the boys and girls. Children try on sunglasses with petroleum jelly
smeared on the lenses to experience what it might be like to not have clear vision. Place cotton in their ears to help them understand what happens when a person can’t hear well. To understand what people with strokes might feel like when they walk, tie an arm close to the body of
the child. If possible, let each one ride in a wheelchair and use a walker. Participating in these activities will make the children more sensitive in their ministry efforts.
Communication with agency representatives is vital in setting up this program. Everyone needs to be clear on time of arrival; what types of projects the children can be involved in; and how many children will be participating.
Always have a back-up plan. Even after careful planning, your schedule or activities may change due to uncontrollable circumstances.
