Theme for the Year: Love at the Center This year, our theme is “Love at the Center.” This guiding principle underscores everything we do, emphasizing that love is the core value driving our actions, discussions, and projects. Through this theme, we aim to help our children and youth understand and practice love in its many forms—self-love, love for others, and love for the world around us.  

Our children and youth programs are open to all regardless of your background, beliefs, or identities. We celebrate diversity and strive to create a space where every individual feels valued and included.

• Focus on Inclusion: We are committed to fostering an environment where every voice is heard, and everyone feels welcome. This means actively addressing and embracing differences, and ensuring that our activities and discussions are accessible and respectful of all participants.
• Community Building: We prioritize building strong, supportive relationships among members. Our gatherings include team-building activities, open discussions, and collaborative projects to strengthen our sense of community.

Elementary Aged Program

Sundays 10am-11.15am – Led by Twinks 

Unitarian Universalist Elementary School Program: “Love at the Center”

Overview: Our Unitarian Universalist elementary school program is designed for young learners to explore their values and develop their understanding of the world through a blend of creative arts, storytelling, and outdoor activities. This program is centered around the theme “Love at the Center,” and follows the monthly Soul Matters themes, providing a rich and engaging environment where children can grow spiritually and emotionally.  This program meets in our intentional and inspiring children’s space, and each child can choose between several activities every morning.

Highlights for the year:

Art Projects: Monthly art projects are designed around the Soul Matters themes. For example, a theme on “Courage” might involve creating superhero capes or masks, while a theme on “Compassion” could include making “Kindness Rocks” to be shared with others.

Storytelling: Each month, children listen to and engage with stories that reflect the Soul Matters themes and the central theme of love. Stories are carefully chosen to resonate with their developmental stage and to spark discussions about values and feelings.

Nature Exploration: Outdoor activities are integral to our program, allowing children to connect with nature and experience the theme of love in a natural setting. Activities might include nature walks, scavenger hunts, and outdoor games that reinforce the monthly themes.

• Community Building: Group outdoor activities, such as team-building exercises and cooperative games, help build a sense of community and mutual support among the children. These experiences emphasize teamwork, respect, and kindness.  Activities and group projects help strengthen these community bonds.

Middle School Youth Group: “Love at the Center”

Sundays 4-6pm – Advisors Finn Allen, John Kielb and Twinks

Overview: Our Unitarian Universalist middle school youth group is a brand new inclusive community where young people come together to explore their beliefs, make new friends, and engage in meaningful social action. This year we are  guided by the “Re-Imagine RE” social action curriculum, which empowers our youth to become thoughtful, compassionate, and active members of their communities.

Highlights for the year:

• Social Action Projects: Throughout the year, we will undertake various social action projects that align with our theme of love. These might include volunteering with local organizations, participating in advocacy campaigns, or organizing community events that promote inclusion and justice.
• Reflection and Discussion: Regular meetings include time for reflection and discussion. We explore how the theme of love applies to our lives, our communities, and the broader world. This helps us connect our actions with our values and grow as thoughtful, engaged individuals.

High School Youth Group

Sunday 6-8pm – Advisors Marie Hartley, Irie Mullin, Margaret Emmett and Twinks

Overview: Our beloved high school youth group is a place where resect,, inclusion, and social action converge to create a transformative experience. By centering our efforts around the theme of  “Love at the Center” this year, we will be working to become thoughtful, engaged leaders and advocates for positive change. Together, we strive to build a community rooted in empathy, respect, and a shared commitment to justice. Members interact with one another in a supportive and non-judgmental manner, creating a safe space for open expression.  We encourage all members to actively participate and bring their unique perspectives to the group. Engagement in discussions, projects, and leadership opportunities is key to our shared growth.

Highlights for the year:

• Social Action Projects: Throughout the year, we will undertake various social action projects that align with our theme of love. These might include volunteering with local organizations, participating in advocacy campaigns, or organizing community events that promote inclusion and justice.
• Reflection and Discussion: Regular meetings include time for reflection and discussion. We explore how the theme of love applies to our lives, our communities, and the broader world. This helps us connect our actions with our values and grow as thoughtful, engaged individuals.
• Trips and Overnight retreats: The youth group participates in several trips and overnight experiences, including youth CONs with youth from the larger district.

The Nursery at First Parish Brewster

Sundays 10-11.15am

Overview: Nursery at First Parish Brewster is a warm, welcoming space designed to provide professional, nurturing care for pre-kindergarten children. Our goal is to help young children feel comfortable, secure, and valued as they begin their journey into the broader life of our church community.

Caregivers:

• Experienced and Compassionate Staff: Our nursery is led by Claudia Hardewick who is experienced in early childhood development and committed to creating a supportive and engaging environment. She brings a deep sense of empathy and expertise to their role, ensuring that every child receives individualized attention and care.
• Child-Centered Approach: We employ a child-centered approach, recognizing and respecting each child’s unique needs, interests, and developmental stage. We focus on creating positive, trusting relationships with the children to help them feel safe and supported

• Safe and Inviting Space: The nursery is designed to be a safe, clean, and inviting space where children can explore, play, and interact comfortably. It is equipped with age-appropriate toys, books, and activities that stimulate curiosity and learning.
• Welcoming Atmosphere: We invite parents to visit the nursery and meet the Claudia. We believe that a strong partnership between caregivers and parents is key to helping children feel more comfortable and confident.