Daphna Flegal gives a new toy to a girl at the Child Development Program at the Bethlehem Center in Nashville, Tenn. The center and its work of making children healthy, safe and school ready are highlighted in the new “Live B.I.G.” Sunday school curriculum.

Sunday School:
‘Wire’ your Sunday
school class

Today’s children are the first completely digital generation. They’ve never known life without the Internet, video games or CD, MP3 and DVD players. Knowing this, Sunday school teachers may choose to include multimedia activities in their weekly lessons.

“It’s a tool (children) already use, so we can address biblical teachings in an exciting way,” said Marj Pon, director of children’s resources at the United Methodist Publishing House, which this fall will release “Live B.I.G.,” a new, interactive Sunday school curriculum for multiple age levels.

“When media and curriculum are integrated, children learn better,” Pon added.

Multimedia resources can include computer-based activities, PowerPoint¨ presentations, CDs, DVDs, video games and projected images.

Pon said that using media in a lesson promotes active learning. “The kids can operate the computers or DVDs themselves, and it’s a springboard for more open discussion. Press the pause button often and talk. You don’t want them to just watch the video without participating.”

Daphna Flegal, lead editor of children’s resources at the Publishing House, said, “Technology is just a tool. Teachers are still the most important part of learning and faith building.”

Budgets for multimedia equipment may be a concern, but Flegal said it’s not necessary to purchase equipment specifically for the class. If the church office has a computer, arrange to use it during class time. Make sure all students take turns at the activity. Lessons aren’t as effective if some children simply watch.

Adult groups might sponsor a project to fund a multimedia lab for the church. It could consist of a few donated computers, a DVD player and a monitor. Be certain the donated computers have enough capacity to run the software for lessons.

The United Methodist Publishing House offers several multimedia Sunday school activities at www.cokesbury.com:

Live B.I.G. — DVD curriculum set for five age groups, from 3 to 13, plus a one-room format for small membership churches. www.ilivebig.com

Faith Explorer —Video game to reinforce weekly Sunday school lessons. Children receive a new game each week, which families can play together to spark discussion.