The pandemic has been traumatic for many of us, including our children. As we look for ways to help children cope with their anxiety and loss of structure, there has been a surge of interest in spirituality and mindful practices. A recently released book from Church Publishing, Silence by Jerome W. Berryman, is a wonderful resource to use with children during these stressful times. It is a companion piece to the Godly Play curriculum, which was founded by Berryman and emphasizes children’s spiritual experiences though wonder and play. 

The book, beautifully illustrated by Lois Kilberg, is recommended for ages 3 – 8, but I’m sure many past the age of 8 (including adults) will find it soothing and a welcome respite to frenzied lives. Silence offers the reader a way to experience contemplative silence, the silence that comes from within as we seek silence in our noisy world. Using the experience of entering a forest where there are no “trains, cars, trucks, airplanes, or loud talk” the narrator finds a special silence where words wander away, leaving them feeling God’s presence “like air to breathe.”

Silence will certainly enhance Godly Play lessons, but it also can be used in other faith formation settings and certainly in the home. The last page of the book offers a list of wondering questions to aid discussion about the book and its themes. If you like Silence, you’ll want to check out two other Godly Play companion books written by Berryman: The Great Family and The Good Shepherd.

A review copy of this book was supplied by the publisher.