The monks spend several hours leading nature walks and talking with the teens in the guest house living room or around an outdoor bonfire after services. The other monasteries do the same type of thing for their diocesan parishes' youth groups, women's groups, and adult study groups. Whether you live near a monastery or not, setting aside a portion of your family's vacation time each year to visit a monastery is an excellent way to help children establish positive role models and spark in them an interest in monasticism. When children see monks and nuns showing obedience and humility, cheerfully serving others, and spending long, joyous hours in prayer, they better understand how our Faith can be lived every day. You may be able to help with gardening, baking or canning, decorating the Church, cleaning, painting fences or shrines, etc.
Most monasteries have so much spiritual, Church-related work to do that help with chores is welcome.
It is appropriate to bring a small present for the monastery with you, regardless of the length of your stay. Larger monasteries usually have a designated monk or nun whose task it is to guide and look after visitors. Direct all of your questions to this person or to the Abbott or Abbess, unless you are given permission to speak with others when you arrive. To cultivate an attitude of prayer and obedience, most monks and nuns work in silence. You may greet them politely and respectfully, but do not expect them to speak at length.