I hate when I can’t answer a Rosary question. Mike wrote:
I was recently asked by a group setting up a work center for Down’s kids if I could help them set up a line to make rosaries. Most the these kids have very limited capabilities so the rosary design must be very simple. I’m thinking of cord/wire rosaries that have a max of 4 knots/crimps. I can then set the line up so the kids basically load the beads and, if necessary the supervisor, can do the knots.
My request to you is for information. Have you don’t such a program in the past? Do you have rosary designs/techniques that might be useful. Do you know of a source of inexpensive supplies where we might buy bulk supplies through the non-profit.
I think the center should be operational in the next 60-90 days (my estimate) and I think I need to get on my horse to be ready.
My response was:
The Rosaries we make with Rosary Army would probably not be the best in this case as they require some intricate knots, but there are other “big bead” Rosaries I’ve seen that might make more sense. Unfortunately, I’m not sure where to direct you for supplies. I wonder if a place like Michael’s or Hobby Lobby would sell large wooden beads that could be threaded onto string? I’m completely unfamiliar with making the cord/wire Rosaries.
I so wish I could be of more help! I’ll keep an eye out and if I see anything, I’ll let you know.
Anyone have suggestions for what Mike could use to teach these kids to make Rosaries?
Regarding the post about Downs’ kids and rosary making. I think Greg and the poster are on the right track. DS kids and teens can really do well with patterns and sequences. It’s a strategy often used when teaching them basic skills for the workplace; repetitive activities and creations. So, I think the use of various beads in colors and sizes could work. Ten big wooden beads and intervening smaller (pick a color) beads as spacers. Then X-number of beads to separate it from the next decade (probably should be another color to help with the sequencing/sorting).
Repeat. The model could be put up on the board, a poster, and hands-on and the kids could match it. This type of work builds their counting and sequencing skills and taps into those skills they’ve likely been taught.
Who knows, once the sequence for stringing is learned and mastered, they might say the first part/name of the prayer as they slide each bead on (e.g., “Hail Mary. Breathe. Hail Mary. Breathe [for the spacers] …” or “Hail Mary. One. Hail Mary. Two [counting for the spacers]).
I hope this helps.
I am so touched at someone trying to introduce faith to DS kids; our diocese really has very limited services, and many are in the same boat as it’s very hard to find volunteer teachers for CCD/CCE who have experience and/or are special education teachers by training.
Best wishes! Anything you do will be a blessing to the kids and their parents.