Sign of the Cross Necklaces

To learn the gestures for the Sign of the Cross.

The children will pray the Sign of the Cross.

For each child:

• two tongue depressors
• a length of yarn approximately 18 inches long
• a marker
• glue
• a piece of masking tape

• After reviewing the words and meaning of the Sign of the Cross, tell the children they will be creating necklaces to help them remember the hand gestures that accompany the Sign of the Cross.
• Have each child put a dab of glue on the middle of one on the tongue depressors. Put the other tongue depressor on top of the first tongue depressor so that they form the shape of a cross.
• Then have the children put a small amount of glue on the tips of each end of the yarn and press the two ends together on the back of the top vertical tongue depressor.
• Cover the ends of the yarn with the masking tape to hold it in place while the glue dries. Have the children write their names on the backs of their crosses
• On the front side of the cross, have each child write the numbers 1, 2, 3, and 4 according to the order in which the prayer is said.
• The number placement should correspond to how the child will wear the necklace?that is, the number 3 should be written on the right side of the cross so that it is on the child's left side when worn.
• Have the children practice praying the Sign of the Cross using their necklaces.
• Tell the children to take their necklaces home and to use them as a reminder to pray the Sign of the Cross often.

Art/Space Smart, Body Smart

You may want to have some paper towels on hand to clean up any glue spills.

Have enough supervision to make sure the children don't eat the glue.

If there are children in your group with special needs (physical, visual, hearing, language, or behavioral disabilities), adapt the activity accordingly.