The following resources are useful for developing as an Orthodox educator, providing both insight and practical guidance.
CATECHIST TRAINING PROGRAMS
Teacher Certification Program of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America. It took me about two years – and a lot of report writing – to complete this program, but the effort was well worth it. It really helped form a comprehensive view of what catechesis is all about.
Effective Christian Ministry. I completed this online training launched by the Youth and Young Adult Ministry of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese as part of the GOArch Teacher Certification Program. It focuses on identifying the needs in the lives of young people, addressing the challenges they face today, and implementing practices that help to form faithful Orthodox Christians. Again, it was very helpful in forming a holistic view of catechesis.
Orthodox Christian Education Commission Teacher Training Workshops. I attended two of these workshops in my first few years as a catechist. Both provided an invaluable foundation in Orthodox catechesis.
Catechesis of the Good Shepherd. This Montessori-based training offers an alternative, child-centered approach to spiritual formation. I have seen an Orthodox atrium in practice while conducting a retreat in Birmingham AL, and it was truly marvelous. I wish this training and teaching practice would be gradually expanded throughout the Orthodox community, as for the moment it is not easy to find a way to participate in it.
BOOKS
Sowing Seeds for Christ by Elaine Michaels. A small but very insightful book by the Greek Archdiocese.
32 Ways to Become a Great Sunday School Teacher by Delia Halverson. This is a non-Orthodox resource, and the parts of it dealing with doctrine should be reviewed with great caution. However, the practical parts of organizing and conducting a class are very useful.
CLASS MANAGEMENT
Etacude YouTube Channel. This is a channel created by an ESL teacher that also includes a comprehensive section on class management. I have found it immensely helpful.
Teachers Making the Basics Fun. Another really helpful YouTube channel with a lot of class management ideas for younger children, including stations and chants for class routines.
Orthodox Pebbles 