The five-year-old child, in order to develop holistically (spiritually, emotionally, physically, intellectually, socially), needs to be recognized, valued, praised, and accepted for the unique and special person he/she is.The five-year-old child, in order to develop holistically (spiritually, emotionally, physically, intellectually, socially), needs to be recognized, valued, praised, and accepted for the unique and special person he/she is.
This child needs to feel loved by God and loved and appreciated by others. He/She needs to experience a sense of security and belonging which is essential to growth and healthy expression.
The Pre Communion child needs to see and experience how to share. He/She needs models from real-life, Scripture, the lives of saints, and especially from familiar adults in his/her life. (Justice, Fortitude) (Moral training)
This child needs to experience a climate in which self-discipline (Moral training) is fostered by giving him/her real responsibilities and allowing him/her to experience that all actions have related consequences, either positive or negative. (Justice, Temperance)
The catechist helps the child to choose the good for its own sake.
The five-year-old learns best by doing rather than listening; he/she needs to participate in activities like role-playing, storytelling, singing, and celebrating.
The catechist is encouraged to involve the child in group prayer and related religious activities. He/She can be introduced to brief moments of silence in which to communicate with God, to wonder and to imagine. He/She may describe what God has communicated to them.