The Nativity, illus. By Juan Wijngaard and Cumbayah by Floyd Cooper. Yes, good to produce work they can follow. Use Lima beans and present objective to pour one at a time. Most kids aren't used to being able to select their own activities-give them as much time as possible, only helping after what seems an excessive amount of indecision.
Discussion is good when it's about what's happening in Atrium.
If social discussion continues, take the talker out in the hallway for a listening exercise to assist in calming. St. Peter's atrium keeps items fro prayer table next to it. They set up the table together, sing songs, ask for prayer. It also helps to pass something around for each child to hold while they pray, silently or aloud. You can suggest creating a quiet prayer place at home.