By Jan Cagno

With the approach of spring, much of the population is in danger of becoming infected with "spring fever." This affects all ages and is apt to cause housewives to go into a frenzy of housecleaning, men to be caught up in a flurry of gardening and young people’s thoughts to turn to love. Children are not exempt from symptoms of their own. They become restless, excitable and sometimes hard to discipline. How can we best deal with this in our Sunday school?

Begin by "sprucing up" your classroom. Students of every age enjoy a change. Plan a "work day" for your students. Arrive on that day armed with cleaning supplies, bulletin board materials, posters, pictures, etc. Plan to rearrange the furniture in your classroom to give it a new look, if possible. Perhaps you need some bright new curtains to freshen your room. Maybe someone has some stored away in a closet or attic that they would like to donate. You may wish to add a rug or carpeting to one area of your classroom if you are teaching little children. This will provide you with a splendid spot for your story time. Most young children are more comfortable on the floor than in a chair. Often, someone has a rug or carpeting that they would be willing to contribute.

Have your students bring a bag lunch and you can have fun as you "picnic" together.

Be sure to let your students help you arrange furniture, change the bulletin board, place posters or picture on the walls, etc. You, as the teacher, will direct or supervise, but it is important for everyone to feel that they can have a part in getting the job done.

If you are teaching pre-schoolers, then obviously they are a little young to accomplish these kinds of tasks. Therefore, it would be better to invite an older class to help you. The "finished product" can be a pleasant surprise for them.

Add cheer and beauty to your classroom this year to help cope with the epidemic of spring fever!

(This article appeared in the "Spring, 1991" issue of "The Herald.")