What is a Children’s Class?
It is a spiritual education class focusing on the development of qualities (such as truthfulness and honesty) and learning about spiritual principles (such as the Golden Rule). The materials used in these classes have been developed over many years and classes are offered in almost every country in the world.
Even though the children learn the basic principles, teachings and beliefs of the Bahá’í Faith, we believe everyone from all faiths can benefit from them. The emphasis is on teaching them to think and to reflect on their thoughts and actions, and how they can positively contribute to their community.
These classes are open to children of all religious and cultural backgrounds.
Will you talk about God?
Bahá’ís believe that people from all religions worship the same God even if they call Him by different names. We also believe that God is essentially unknowable, and that everyone has his or her own understanding of and connection to God.
Who teaches the classes?
People in the community volunteer their time and are trained by completing a course of study to offer these classes to children in their communities and neighbourhoods. The teachers of these classes are not spiritual leaders. In fact the Bahá’í Faith has no clergy.
What are some Bahá’í beliefs on education?
A fundamental principle of Bahá’í education is that each child is created noble and is a “mine rich in gems of inestimable value”. It is only through education, both material and spiritual, that the true worth of these gems may be realised. It is the role of the teachers to help the children uncover and polish these gems, and to identify and nurture the special talents that each child possesses. Emphasis is placed on the development of spiritual qualities and habits.
What is expected from the parents?
This is a team effort! We welcome you to sit in on the classes if you wish or help in the background. Maybe you sing well, play an instrument, or maybe you can teach a craft or bake.
Parents can become teachers themselves by participating in the training, which is offered free of charge. It is run in a study group format.
Children’s class teachers will meet with the parents periodically, share with them the progress they have seen in their children, and answer any questions parents have.
The classes are free, but parents are welcome to make a small contribution towards material costs.