Exploring Children's Spirituality through Storytelling

Children, Young People & Families

Saturday 11 April 2026

‘OutoftheBox’ and ‘Godly Play’ storytelling offer a safe space to ‘breathe’ to ‘listen’ to ‘wonder’ and to explore where children can question, play with ideas and express their thoughts and feelings. In this space adults don’t tell children what to believe, instead they wonder alongside them and delight in knowing children are capable, curious, and deeply spiritual.

This day workshop explores the spirituality of children through teaching, interactive exercises, an introduction to OutoftheBox and Godly Play storytelling and response.

Who is it for: Those working with children, both clergy and lay, in parishes and schools.

Course Hosts: Revd Debbie Smith (Warden of Dovedale House). A former parish priest and was for eight years the National Messy Church Leader in New Zealand and then Children & Families Leader for the Diocese of Wellington, New Zealand. She is a Godly Play tutor and trained in OutoftheBox's storytelling and Deep Talk. 

Time: 10:00am - 4:00pm

Venue: Dovedale House in Ilam, Ashbourne, DE6 2AZ

Cost: £25

Booking: For further details, and to book, please email jean.overton@lichfield.anglican.org (please note, places are limited to 12).