Program Details
A Love-Centered, Child-Led Approach
Making Faith
At TUUC’s Youth Religious Education (YRE) program, we embrace a hands-on, project-based approach to learning inspired by Maker Space principles and grounded in Unitarian Universalist values. Children of all ages—from kindergarten to 12th grade—explore projects that encourage problem-solving, collaboration, and self-expression, empowering children to lead their own learning while incorporating UU Values and Theology. Through this we recognize the holiness in everyday life and nurture continuous spiritual growth.
Our program is designed to foster meaningful relationships among children and with the wider congregation. We create spaces where every voice matters, and love serves as our guiding principle. Our aim is to create a community built on respect, kindness, and mutual care. We also recognize the importance of play and rest for all children (and adults).
Our program includes:
Hands-On Learning: Rooted in UU principles and values.
Exploration: Focus on creativity, exploration, and collaboration.
Flexible Curriculum: No traditional curriculum; flexible, interest-led learning.
Honoring Diversity: Combat inequality across marginalized identities.
Conflict Resolution: Engage in restorative and peaceful solutions
Get a Free Sample Activity or check out the For the Family page for more ideas.
Youth Group
This year, we’ve reimagined our UU Youth Group to create a vibrant and meaningful experience for students in 6th–12th grade. Meeting once a month, the group engages in thoughtful conversations, reflections, and discussions about what it means to live out UU values as young people. In addition to these gatherings, social events like Dungeons & Dragons games led by members of the congregation add a layer of fun and friendship.
The Youth Group also takes an active role in the life of our church. One standout event is the Illuminated Ancestral Trail, an annual offering created and led by the youth. This deeply moving experience invites participants to walk a trail illuminated from above and below, pausing at reflective stations for silent meditation.
Coming of Age
The Coming of Age Program is currently undergoing revisions and will not be offered during the 2024-2025 church year.
During Coming of Age, you can expect students to participate in activities and discussions relating to UU values, exploring UU theology, a service project, exploring the "big questions" in life, writing faith statements, playing games, building community, and laughing a lot!
Our Whole Lives (OWL) Sexuality Education
Honest, accurate information about sexuality changes lives. It dismantles stereotypes and assumptions, builds self-acceptance and self-esteem, fosters healthy relationships, improves decision making, and has the potential to save lives. For these reasons and more, we are proud to offer Our Whole Lives.
OWL teachers must successfully complete a rigorous, multi-hour training. Parents are required to attend an orientation session so that they are fully informed about what is covered at each age level. The curriculum was created in tandem with Church of Christ, with two options: a religious or secular curriculum. We utilize the secular edition and are glad to offer it to UU families as well as those from the community looking for this comprehensive program.
For more information, see our OWL specific page
Additional Information about our program can be found here:
Questions?
Contact Kara Tyler, Director of Religious Education
Phone: 410-825-6045 ext. 4
Email: tuucdre@towsonuuc.org
