Kids

On UpStreet, we use a curriculum from The ReThink Group called 252 Basics (based on Luke 2:52). Why? Here are a  few really BIG reasons.

1.    It lines up with our strategy.

Because UpStreet is based around small groups, we want to make sure the curriculum we use follows that model. 252 Basics provides resources centered around the small group model, giving us options for K/1st, 2nd/ 3rd, and 4th/ 5th grade groups, respectively. We love the fact that all the activities provided are within the context of a small group that meets every week to learn and grow together.

2.    It works with our morning schedule
Several years ago, we moved from Bible story time led by a coach in the classroom to  providing a full-blown large group experience where we could audition and place the BEST communicators and singers in front of our kids to present the Bible story and lead them in worship. Our schedule calls for kids to start out in their small groups, head to large group for teaching and worship and then back to their groups for closing application time. 252 Basics tracks with the same schedule, providing an opening activity for small group, a completely scripted large group piece, as well as lots of options for different activities in the closing small group time. Not having to move big chunks around and having a curriculum that already tracks with our morning makes things a whole lot easier.

3.    It comes in a format you can EDIT!
From a user standpoint, this might be the coolest thing about 252.  Because the curriculum is web-based, we can download the materials in a Word document and EDIT to our hearts content. Sometimes we edit a little, sometimes we edit a lot. It depends on what’s going on in our ministry, or room size constraints due to numbers of kids or maybe a supply we can’t find or afford for the numbers we run. Whatever the case may be, it’s pretty cool to be able to edit the content to fit the needs of your individual ministry.

So why use this curriculum? 252 Basics teaches kids to make the wise choice, to treat others the way you want to be treated, and to trust God no matter what.  But the most compelling reason why we use 252 Basics is because it provides materials that lead kids into a relationship with Jesus so that they can grow up just like He did.

To check out a sample of 252 Basics go to www.252basics.com

Post written by:  Emily Meredith - UpStreet Director - Buckhead Church