"While noise takes us away from ourselves, through silence we build bridges to our own souls."  --Dr. Forni

Activities:

1. Use voices, body parts, rhythmn instruments, and other devices to make as much noise as possible for 60 seconds.  Then,  have everyone remain silent for 60 seconds.  What did you hear  while making the noise?  What did it feel like while you made the noise?  What did you hear when you remained quiet?  What did it feel like to remain silent?  What was better--quiet or loud?
2. Celebrate International Noise Awareness Day.

Discussion questions:

1. What are some appropriate situations to "keep it down"?  What are some situations when noise is appropriate?
2. How does keeping it down help us to be more civil?

Books:

• Children
• Teens