Life Storyboards

by Michael Novelli   |  March 17 2009    11:33 AM

A few years ago I developed an activity to help students share some of their story with each other in our youth group. I call this activity a Life Storyboard, as each student draws, writes and shares snapshots from their life. Most students seem to love this activity, as it gives them a chance to express themselves in a new way.

A few students (and adults!) groan a bit about having to draw, lamenting, "I am not good at drawing!" I always encourage them that this is not an art competition and I will not allow any one to make fun of what they create. I also tell them, "You can write words around your pictures. Just make the pictures simple. The important thing is that you really think about each snapshot and are ready to share what you created." This seems to set them at ease!

I have found that even the quietest students respond well to this activity. I believe this is because we all have a deep desire to be known, and really would like a safe place to share more of who we are. This exercise, in a small way, seems to help create that kind of environment if guided well. Recently, I have used this in my sunday school class and at two retreats. All of the groups connected with this. Let me know how your group responds!

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