Elementary Education

Starring Talents

By Roselyn Smith  

Many teachers offer students an opportunity to tell about themselves in an attempt to get acquainted. Instead of having them name their favorite colors and foods, etc. have them describe what gifts they have been given; what talents God has blessed them with. As your students are getting to know each other in this new school year, try this alteration of an age old lesson.  

Read - You are the light of the world. A city built on a hill cannot be hid. No one after lighting a lamp puts it under the bushel basket, but on the lamp stand, and it gives light to all in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father in heaven.” Matthew 5: 14-16

• Discuss with students what a talent is. Many children at this age do not know what their talents are, yet. Often talents are something we are good at, and can develop to use in a special way. Be sure and discuss how talents are not just athletic ability, musical abilities, or something we can get an award for. Being a good listener, a good friend, a thoughtful son or daughter, a good student, and a peacemaker are all examples of talents we can share with others. Whatever your talents, God expects you to put your best effort into it, and give Him the glory. We do that by acknowledging his blessings.

• Activity Using a star pattern, have students cut a bright yellow star out of construction paper, about the size of a whole 9x12 piece. Have them write on about a quarter of a piece of notebook paper, their name in large letters and one or more of their talents. You may want to do a “sloppy copy” on another paper first to check and revise. Cut out the form, place it in the center of the star and decorate the edge of the star with gold glitter. Display with the banner, “Let Our Lights Shine,” “Shining Talents,” or a similar saying.

• Plan of Action – After discussing what talents your students have, it is important to go the next step and talk about what you should or could do with those talents. Help them to discover a way to honor God with their talent this week. Have them write it down and include it in their stewardship offering for the next at Mass.

End your lesson with this prayer– Dear Jesus, show us what our talents are and how we can use them best for your glory. Thank you for all you have blessed us with. Help us to be good stewards in your world today. Amen

Roselyn Smith is a teacher and the Coordinator for Stewardship Education for Children and Youth at Blessed Trinity in Ocala, FL. Her parish is known nation-wide for their stewardship efforts and recently was awarded the Archbishop Murphy award by the International Catholic Stewardship Council. For information on her stewardship curriculum or any other questions, contact Roselyn at rozsmith9278@yahoo.com.