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Top 10 Love Bible Verses for Valentine’s Day

Kristin Charles — Tue, 07 Feb 2012 13:59:27 +0000

In the next few days leading up to Valentine’s Day, love will be marketed in advertisements and store displays. Love will be equated with chocolate and cards and flowers and romance.

And yes, love can be demonstrated in these ways. But as followers of Christ, we know that love is so much more! Communicating that kind of love to our children in our homes, neighborhoods, and ministries is essential.

Compiled here is a toolbox of scripture references that define love. Use these verses for personal reflection, lesson plans, games, as memory verses, creative gifts for your students, in visual displays, and in cards that you write. God gave us no better definition of love than in His son Jesus. Let’s communicate His perfect love at this time of year – and all the year through!

1. John 3:16
For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.

2. 1 John 3:1
See what great love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! And that is what we are!

3. 1 John 3:16
This is how we know what love is: Jesus Christ laid down his life for us. And we ought to lay down our lives for our brothers and sisters.

4. 1 John 4:7-12
Dear friends: let us love one another, for love comes from God. Everyone who loves has been born of God and knows God. Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love. This is how God showed his love among us: He sent his one and only Son into the world that we might live through him. This is love: not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins. Dear friends, since God so loved us, we also ought to love one another. No one has ever seen God; but if we love one another, God lives in us and his love is made complete in us.

5. 1 Corinthians 13: 4-8; 13
Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails…. And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love.

6. John 15:13
Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.

7. Romans 5:8
But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.

8. Romans 8:37
No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.

9. Ephesians 3:18-20
I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all the Lord’s holy people, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge—that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God.

10. Ephesians 5:1
Follow God’s example; therefore, as dearly loved children and walk in the way of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.

What are your favorite scripture references that define love? Leave a comment below to share your favorites.

Preschool Lesson about “Sin and Saving Love”

Kristin Charles — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 13:34:41 +0000

Use this free preschool Bible lesson to teach some basic concepts about sin and the saving love of God. We’ve included several learning activities and object lessons to help make these concepts concrete for younger children. You could easily adapt this Psalm 51 Bible lesson for any age children. Please modify this material for the needs of your class and leave a comment below with your suggestions for other readers.

Objectives: To help preschool students comprehend the extent of sin; to identify sin, its consequences, and an initial reaction to it. To identify God as the only One who can cleanse us from our sins. To enable students to look at snow and be reminded of God’s gift to them in salvation.

Supplies: chocolate pudding, “sin signs” (small signs made out of red construction paper to look like a stop sign – write the words sin, transgression, evil, and iniquity on them – one for each child; attach signs to popsicle sticks with tape), construction paper with the word SIN on it, shaving cream, glue, dixie cups, popsicle sticks, glitter, music for the game.

Optional: “Forgive our Sins” coloring page or “Covered by Christ” coloring sheets

Welcome: Create interest in the lesson by welcoming the students into the room with chocolate pudding (or something of the sort) all over your hands. Leave marks on various (easy to clean surfaces.) Exaggerate the issue.

Say: Ugh! Look how dirty my hands are! They are filthy! I’m getting this chocolate pudding everywhere! What should I do about my dirty hands?

When students suggest washing, pretend like you hadn’t thought of the solution before. Wash your hands and pretend to be relieved. Make a parallel between unclean hands and an unclean heart.

Bible Lesson: Psalm 51:1-9

Say: Wow! My hands sure were dirty before. Ew… they reminded me of awful, stinking, messy sin. Can anyone tell me what sin is? Allow for responses.

Sin is when we do what is wrong in God’s eyes. It can be something that we do, think, feel, or say. Sin is when you lie to your mom. Sin is when you argue with your brother. Sin is when you yell or cry or complain to get what you want. Sin is when you do something when no one is looking.

Sin makes God’s heart sad. Sin hurts other people. Sin leaves a mess behind it (point to the chocolate marks.) Sin hurts us. The Bible says that the punishment for sin is death. That means, if you sin, you die. That is serious!

Sometimes, God uses other words for sin like iniquity and transgression and evil. They all mean the same thing. The Bible has a lot to say about sin. Wait till you hear how much! I am going to pass out what we’ll call “sin signs” to everyone. Each sign has a word on it that means sin. I want you to listen carefully for your word, as I read the Bible. When you hear it, lift your sin sign up high for all to see! Let’s listen to hear what God says about sin.

Distribute “sin signs.” These are stop signs with the words sin, iniquity, transgression, or evil written on them.

Read Psalm 51:1-9. Emphasize the words sin, iniquity, transgression, or evil. Encourage them to hold their sin signs high. Paraphrase if needed, so that students comprehend the passage.

Have mercy on me, O God, according to your unfailing love; according to your great compassion blot out my transgressions. Wash away all my iniquity and cleanse me from my sin.

For I know my transgressions, and my sin is always before me.
Against you, you only, have I sinned and done what is evil in your sight;
so you are right in your verdict and justified when you judge.

Surely I was sinful at birth, sinful from the time my mother conceived me.
Yet you desired faithfulness even in the womb; you taught me wisdom in that secret place.

Cleanse me with hyssop, and I will be clean; wash me, and I will be whiter than snow.
Let me hear joy and gladness; let the bones you have crushed rejoice.
Hide your face from my sins and blot out all my iniquity.

Lesson Discussion

Did you hear how many times sin was mentioned in just a few verses? It was a lot! Did anyone hear what we should do about our sin? Allow for responses. Wash it away! That’s right!

Just a moment ago, I washed the pudding off of my hands. That made my hands clean. Hooray! But how can we wash our hearts – our dirty, messy, stinky, yucky sinful hearts? I can’t get water and soap to my heart. Does anyone know how we can wash our hearts?

We actually can’t do it ourselves. Jesus is the only one who can wash our hearts and make us clean. When He died on the cross, He died for our sins. Remember how we said that the punishment for sin is death? If we sin, we will die, but we don’t have to. He chose to die instead. To save us and to clean us! His love is a saving love.

When we understand what Jesus did and accept his forgiveness for our sins, our hearts get washed. We get clean. But just like in the verses we read, we have to ask for that. We have to say, “Wash me, Jesus.” And when He does, guess what? Our hearts will be cleaned and we will be whiter than snow! Let’s make an art project today to help us remember what we learned.

Art Project: ”Snow Art”

Prepare Ahead: Have the word SIN written on a piece of dark construction paper. On the back of it, either write or glue a print out of Psalm 51:7b: “Wash me and I will be whiter than snow.”

Distribute these pieces of construction paper, along with a Dixie cup of glue, shaving cream, and a popsicle stick to each child. Have the students stir the mixture and create a snow scene to cover the word SIN. Use an example to demonstrate. Once finished, have students sprinkle glitter on their projects. Emphasize how God makes our black sin whiter than snow. His love takes away our sins. His love makes us beautiful like freshly fallen snow.

Game: “Freeze!”

The object of this game is for students to get up and moving and to identify a healthy reaction to sin – getting away from it as quickly as possible. This game, in and of itself, is a great object lesson and a ton of fun!

Play this game in a wide open area. Have teachers and helpers dispersed around the room, with the children. Adults should be holding the “Sin Signs,” used earlier in the lesson. (Only 4-5 are necessary.) Play music for students to move around and act silly. Pause it without warning and have everyone freeze. (We use the “Freeze” song from a Kids in Motion CD by Greg and Steve; this song has “built in” pauses.) As soon as the music gets paused, one adult should hold up his/her sign quickly. When the children see it, they should turn and run away as quickly as they can! When the music starts back up, continue to move around and mingle until the next pause and repeat with a different adult holding up sign. (The adults should coordinate an order to go in prior to the game.)

When the game is over, discuss briefly with the students. You may want to give brief case scenarios to help them understand a proper response to sin. (When you see a friend getting bullied, run away and tell an adult. When you see something on TV that you know is wrong, turn it off. When you want to take something that is not yours, do not do it! Run away from the temptation.)

Songs: Teach the songs: “Create in Me a Clean Heart” (an extension of Psalm 51:10-12) or the Hymn “Whiter Than Snow”

Cross-Cultural Kids Ministry: 10 Lessons from the Field

Kristin Charles — Fri, 04 Nov 2011 13:08:49 +0000

In my first article on cross cultural kids ministry, I included ways to prepare you and your team for serving. This post will address things to consider while you are on the field.

You’ve packed your bags and you’ve no doubt had a journey to get where you are. Maybe airplane turbulence has got you wondering how you’ll step on the plane for the return flight or maybe you have driven over potholes at lightening speeds with a quirky taxi driver. Now it’s go time!

You have landed in an environment much unlike your own. So the question is, how can you best relate to children of a different cultural background than yourself? How can you clearly communicate the universal message of the gospel without getting in the way? Included here are suggestions as to what to do now that you’re in place to serve.

1. Welcome with Warmth and Communicate Joy: Immediately get on the children’s level and look in their eyes. Extend a hand for a high-five or handshake. Smile, let loose, and be silly. Exaggerate movements to act out a funny scenario. Laugh. Perform an outlandish feat like a cart-wheel.

2. Ask Questions: If a translator is present, ask the children simple questions about their favorite sport, food, color, or school class. Ask about their personal life with open-ended questions, like, “Tell me about your home, church, school, or family.” Come equipped with basic sentences in their language, in the event that a translator is not present with you at the time. A basic phrase such as, “You like ________?” or, “You don’t like________?” can carry you far. Draw pictures or pantomime possible choices for answers.

3. Create Artwork Together: Use chalk, paint, crayons, ink pads, yarn, or any other medium that you have decided to bring. Sketch out the gospel message for the children to visualize. Create something that tells a story or is just simply beautiful. Consider creating a mural with the children, recycling trash into artwork, or teaching them a skill or craft that they can use to generate a small income after you have gone.

4. Play Together: Play a team sport together. Consider soccer first, as it is an all-time favorite and requires little equipment. We usually bring our own soccer balls to donate to the ministry. Goals can be marked off by tape or spray paint if no nets are available. Also consider playing with a parachute (also brought and donated) and playing a game of tag (with multiple variations). Games like rock/paper/scissors, hopscotch, and thumb wars can be played in pairs. In addition, have them teach you their games (either made up or cultural favorites). Play with the toys that they have created, whether it be a taped plastic bag ball, a soda bottle car, or a cloth doll. Recognize the creativity behind each of these toys!

5. Sing Together: Learn simple gospel songs in their language, especially active songs with movements included. Get kids up and involved with a high level of energy. Prior to going, ask your contact about specific kid favorites.

6. Be a Servant Leader: Work hard to serve God by serving the missionaries, the partnering organization, the ministry’s children, and their families. Recognize needs and be responsive to meeting them on a long-term basis. Treat everyone with the utmost respect and love. Do not pity others, but hold them in high regard because Christ would.

7. Take Care of Yourself: Take care of yourself so that you are in the best condition to serve. Watch what you eat and drink and be attentive to how much sleep you are getting at night. As best as you can, eat what is served you, as a way to honor your hosts. However, your digestive system may have issues with the unfamiliar food or the way that it is prepared. Sometimes, a regimen of acidophilus is helpful to prepare your stomach before and during the trip.

In addition, drink lots of water to prevent dehydration, but make sure that it is safe for drinking and brushing teeth. Ensure that you are getting enough sleep at night so that you are fully rested to serve and to prevent a weakened immune system. Wear sunscreen in warm weather climates and re-apply continuously. Be attentive to other safety concerns like dangerous swimming areas, traveling at night, protecting your passport, wallet, or camera, being alone, etc

8. Look Beyond their Surroundings: In many parts of the world, what you may see will bring you to tears. Cry later. Do not make your focus their physical surroundings, but pay attention to their spiritual condition. I have learned valuable lessons from the wealth of poverty-stricken, Christ filled homes, brimming with hospitality. Learn from these local Christ followers how to praise God, how to trust Him to provide, and how to live a life of gratitude. Remember that families will be proud of their meager homes and they have worked hard to maintain them. Be proud with them. Instead of looking at their surroundings, focus on loving the families and bestowing dignity in them, as Jesus would.

9. Go to Learn. God always has more to teach us than we could ever teach others. Learn from the Word and through every victory, defeat, and bump in the road. Learn from each encounter with another. Learn from the missionaries, the partnering organizations, and/or the nationals doing the work of God in that place. Be flexible and change your agenda accordingly.

10. Trust in God: Let Him do the work that He intended through you and your team. Things may not always go as you had planned. Trust in His plan, whatever that may be. Remember that God is not safe and there will always be risks in following Him. But, we can be assured that He is good. What else can be done to minister to kids on the mission field? What recommendations would you add to relate to children of a different cultural background than yourself?

What Can Tree Roots Teach about Ministry?

Kristin Charles — Mon, 17 Oct 2011 13:03:10 +0000

Scientists who study trees have determined that a tree’s roots grow outward to about three times the spread of its branches. Roots have a vast network underground that is largely unseen.

We never consider a tree’s roots unless a problem unearths itself.

Maybe hurricane force winds threaten the structure of a tree. Maybe erosion along a river exposes the roots to the elements and the tree looks like it’s just barely holding on. Or maybe some sort of disease or infestation attacks the roots, jeopardizing the entire health of the tree.

Tree roots develop, survive, and flourish where there is adequate oxygen and moisture. Essentially they need water and space to dive down deep in good soil. However, in compact soil, the roots grow close to the ground surface, increasing the vulnerability of the roots and therefore the tree.

So what does any of this have to do with children’s ministry? Everything.

I don’t know about you, but often times I forget that the saving work of my ministry is what happens before I leave the house. It’s in the quiet study of the Word of God, the stillness of prayer, and the heart of worship that brings action to words of praise.

Problems in our ministries will come. They may be hurricane force winds with children and their parents, our own staff and leadership, our church family, and maybe our own family. Or maybe the issues will look more like quiet erosion; unearthing our patience and withstanding.

Without ensuring that we have adequate breathing room, our roots will be shallow. Things may appear held together, but underneath the surface, our foundation is skewed. Without the Living Water drenching us and absorbing into our soul, our roots will be dry and irritable; our soil shallow. It is not unlike the familiar parable of the soils. Plants wither without good roots.

Jeremiah 17:7 also speaks to this very principle,

“Blessed is the one who trusts in the LORD, whose confidence is in Him [and not himself]. They will be like a tree planted by the water that sends out its roots by the stream. It does not fear when heat comes; its leaves are always green. It has no worries in a year of drought and never fails to bear fruit.”

However this finds you today, I hope that you know how valuable your ministry is. I hope that you know that lives are being changed by Christ in you, whether you can see it or not. I hope that you know that your work is worthwhile.

I also pray that as you have labored hard, you will take time out for yourself; for much-needed rest, encouragement, and soul care. Find some breathing room, drink the water of the Word, and send your roots down slowly and far. You have given much. Now the most valuable thing you can do is receive; from Him who has given you life to the full.

“Do Not Be Afraid” Preschooler Lesson about Halloween

Kristin Charles — Fri, 14 Oct 2011 12:53:55 +0000

Halloween can be a frightening season for small children, with its skeletons, ghosts, witches, monsters, and the like. Even if a child is not exposed to Halloween celebrations at home, the stores are inundated with gory displays. It is almost impossible to ignore.

But Halloween (I don’t think) should be ignored. It is the second highest grossing commercial holiday besides Christmas and strongly integrated into American culture. The Halloween season is a perfect time to talk about fear and trust. Rather than ignore the celebration altogether, use it as a springboard to talk about real issues that children are facing. Real issues like fear.

Bible Story: “Do Not Be Afraid. He has Risen”
Scripture: Matthew 28: 1-10
Target Age Group: Preschool and Kindergarten
Time: 45-60 Minutes
Learning Context: Children’s Church

Supplies: The Little Old Lady Who Wasn’t Afraid of Anything book by Linda Williams, Bible, white paper plates (with “Do not be afraid – He has risen” on the back), orange tissue paper squares, diluted glue, paintbrushes, brown construction paper stems, green construction paper leaves, yarn/ribbon/string for hanging, optional black triangles, optional “You are my Hiding Place” song by Selah

Alternate Ideas:

We also have free “Fear Not” Halloween coloring pages to support this lesson plan.
Watch the Itsy Bitsy Spider song by Go Fish
Check out this spider web snack pretzels idea from Mom Endeavors

Introduction: With Halloween coming up, there are a lot of scary decorations around. Have any of you seen them? They make me very afraid! Do any of you ever get scared? (Be the first to raise your hand and admit fear.) Today we’re going to read a story about a woman who was not afraid of anything. I wonder if it’s going to be a true story or not. Can you help me read it today? Here is what I need you to do.

Learning Activity #1: Read The Little Old Lady Who Wasn’t Afraid of Anything by Linda Williams. Pick up a copy at any library, bookstore, or online. The story is about a woman who runs from a scarecrow and then realizes that she doesn’t have to be afraid.

Before reading, teach the motions from the book so that your students are engaged. For example, when the shoes go CLOMP CLOMP, have everyone stomp their feet. When pants wiggle, have them wiggle. When the shirt shakes, have them shake their hands.

Alternative: If you do not have access to the book, the Harper Collins website allows you to preview the book pages online. Knowing the story would still allow you to do a dramatic retelling of it.

Ask the following questions.

In the story, was the Little Old Lady afraid? (Yes, in the beginning. Why?)
What makes her not afraid? (She tries to be brave. Maybe she knows she doesn’t have to be scared of a scarecrow.)
Was this a real or pretend story? (Pretend.) Are there really pumpkin people who chase us at night? (No!)
Are there things that make us afraid? (Yes!)
What sorts of things make people afraid? (spiders, snakes, the dark, monsters, something hiding under your bed, big dogs)
Have you ever been afraid? (Yes!)

I have been afraid too. Sometimes I am afraid a lot. Let’s play a quick game to see that we can all be afraid sometimes. You are not alone! Follow along with me as I teach you a new song!

Learning Activity #2: Sing: “If You’re Scared of _________, Clap Your Hands” to the tune of “If You’re Happy and You Know It”. (The purpose of this interactive song is for children to identify their fears and understand that they are not alone in feeling that way.)

If you’re scared of spiders, clap your hands.
If you’re scared of spiders, clap your hands.
If you’re scared of spiders, then your face will surely show it (scared face and scared noise!)
If you’re scared of spiders, clap your hands.

Repeat with common other fears, especially child fears. Replace clapping with other motions such as stomp your feet, jump up and down, slap your legs, wiggle around, shout, “Oh no!”

(Last verse) If we’re all scared of something, turn around.
If we’re all scared of something, turn around.
If we’re all scared of something, then we are not alone.
If we’re all scared of something, turn around. Sit down!

We can learn from this song that everyone is afraid sometimes. God knows that we will be afraid, but He doesn’t want us to stay that way. The Bible says so many times, “Do not be afraid!” Today we’re going to learn how we can do that.

Learning Activity #3: Bible Teaching (Matthew 28: 1-10)

Prior to the reading, assign half of the students to listen for any mention of the word “afraid” in the text. When they hear “afraid,” they should look scared. Have them practice first.

The other half of the students will be listening for the words, “He has risen.” When they hear those words, they should stand up and sit back down. Have them practice also.

Let’s look in the book of Matthew for our answer. This book is a true story, NOT like the first pretend one we read. This book tells about Jesus’ life. It talks about how he was born, tells about His teachings, and even of His death on the cross for our sins. But Jesus’ life does not end on the cross. Let’s see what happens after He died.

Now listen closely for your part. Let’s practice one more time. Do not be afraid. He has risen. (Have students do accompanying movements.) Okay, ready. Set. Listen!

Read Matthew 28: 1-10. (Please note: I have added parenthetical explanations for preschoolers to ensure vocabulary comprehension.)

After the Sabbath, at dawn on the first day of the week, Mary Magdalene and the other Mary went to look at the tomb (the place where his dead body was.)

There was a violent earthquake (the ground shook!), for an angel of the Lord came down from heaven and, going to the tomb, rolled back the stone and sat on it. His appearance was like lightning, and his clothes were white as snow. The guards were so afraid of him that they shook and became like dead men.

The angel said to the women, “Do not be afraid, for I know that you are looking for Jesus, who was crucified (killed). He is not here; he has risen (He is alive!), just as he said. Come and see the place where he lay. Then go quickly and tell his disciples: ‘He has risen (He is alive!) from the dead and is going ahead of you into Galilee. There you will see him.’ Now I have told you.”

So the women hurried away from the tomb, afraid yet filled with joy, and ran to tell his disciples. Suddenly Jesus met them. “Greetings,” he said. They came to him, clasped his feet and worshiped him. Then Jesus said to them, “Do not be afraid. Go and tell my brothers to go to Galilee; there they will see me.”

Congratulate students for their good listening ears! Consider repeating the story for emphasis (if time allows) and switch students listening roles.

Ask the following questions:

How did the women feel when they got to the tomb? (Afraid.) Why? (They didn’t know where Jesus’ body was!)
What did the angel tell them? (Do not be afraid.) Why? (He has risen!)
So what did they do then? (They ran to tell others.)
Who did they meet along the way? (Jesus!)
What did Jesus say to them? (Do not be afraid!)

I LOVE what happened here, so many years ago. People were afraid, just like we are today. But they didn’t have to be, because Jesus had risen from the dead. See? That’s the answer! Today, we are afraid of so many things. But we don’t have to be, because Jesus has risen from the dead. He is alive and He is with us when we are afraid.

Does anyone know what the word TRUST means? Trust means to believe. We can believe in a lot of things, but God says that the MOST IMPORTANT thing is to believe in HIM. When we put our trust in God, He helps us to not be afraid anymore.

Let’s learn God’s Words in Psalm 56: 3-4. Teach the verse with motions to the tune of “Happy Birthday.”

When I am afraid (hands on mouth, mouth open wide in fear);
I put my trust in You (point straight upwards to God.)
In God (point up again), whose word (fold open hands like a Bible) I praise
In God I trust (point up) and am not afraid (shake head).

Sing the song through multiple times. At first, sing it slowly. Every time after, continue speeding up until you can barely get the words out.

Learning Activity #4: Pumpkin Art

Prepare: Write “Do not be afraid. He has risen. (Matthew 28)” on white paper plates (1 for each student.) Cut up orange tissue paper squares, a brown stem and a green leaf out of construction paper. Punch a hole in the top for hanging and thread with a ribbon, yarn, or string. Optional: black construction paper triangles

Paint the paper plates with slightly diluted glue. (Do not cover the verse.)
Stick orange tissue paper squares to make it look like a pumpkin.
Glue on the brown stem and green leaf.
Encourage the students to hang it on their doorknob at home so they can remember to smile at the silly pumpkin story we read and remember to not be afraid because of Jesus.
(Optional) Have black construction paper triangles to make a Jack O Lantern.

Optional Song (to teach or listen to during the art project)

“You are My Hiding Place,” by Selah

You are my hiding place
You always fill my heart
With songs of deliverance
Whenever I am afraid
I will trust in You

I will trust in You
Let the weak say
I am strong
In the strength of the Lord
You are my hiding place
You always fill my heart
With songs of deliverance
Whenever I am afraid
I will trust in You

I will trust in You
Let the weak say I am strong
In the strength of the Lord
I will trust in You

Preschool “Fall into Harvest” Teaching Games for Kids

Kristin Charles — Thu, 06 Oct 2011 12:09:57 +0000

Looking for a way to merge the fall season into your Sunday School lesson, Bible club, Christian classroom, or Awana meeting? Here are three age-appropriate game ideas for preschoolers. They are sure to not only engage and entertain the youngest crowd, but also teach them an applicable Biblical truth. Get ready to get out of your seats, laugh, encourage, learn, and wiggle!

Wiggle Those Bones: This game is a perfect way for preschoolers to burn some energy, particularly if you find them losing focus in the middle of a lesson.

Ask them if they have seen any skeletons at this time of year. (Hold up a picture of one if available.) Explain that God uses our skeletons to hold our body together. If we didn’t have skeletons, we would be like a rag doll and flop around. (Show an example, if available.) God formed our bodies so perfectly! He thought of everything! In the Bible, God says, “We are fearfully and wonderfully made.” That is so true!

Let’s play a game called, “Wiggle Those Bones” today! Have your students stand up and lead them in wiggling parts of their body. “Everybody wiggle your nose; your toes; your knees; your elbows; your ears…” There will be a ton of wiggling and a ton of giggling! You could also play an adaptation of Simon says, called “Skeleton Says,” for a greater challenge.

I Spy Thankfulness: Remind the students that Thanksgiving is coming up soon! Lead a short discussion about Thanksgiving, briefly discussing your favorite Thanksgiving traditions and asking the children what their family does to celebrate it. Talk about how great it is to be thankful not only at Thanksgiving, but all the year through!

Colossians 4:2 says to, “Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful.” That means that we really need to watch or look for things to thank God for! There are little gifts all around us that we should be thankful for; gifts like our parents, our church, Jesus’ love for us, friends, food, football, etc.

Have the students put on inexpensive sunglasses for this game or pretend binoculars (hands around their eyes.) Look for people and/or items around the room that we can be thankful for. For example, “I spy something cuddly and soft that makes me smile.” Have the students guess the answer, then say, “A teddy bear! You’re right! I am thankful for teddy bears!” Or, “I spy something that tells of Jesus’ love for me.” “That’s right! The cross! I am so thankful that Jesus died on the cross for my sins!” If your venue allows (and if getting your students up and moving is a necessity), take them on a small “I Spy” walk around the church. Have the preschoolers hold onto a rope to keep them together, stop them at certain moments, then have them look around as you describe the clue. (This will hopefully prevent a domino effect of children falling on one another!)

You may also want to utilize the “I Spy” game in the classroom as a time to celebrate your students’ strengths. Provide clues by saying, “I spy someone who is wearing pink and who is really good at sharing” or, “I spy someone with a striped shirt who is good at sports but always plays fair” or, “I spy someone wearing green who is a great listener and friend! When your students guess the correct individual, say, “That’s right! Today I am so thankful for Rebecca!”

The Scarecrow Team Game: For this game, you will need two adult volunteers to be the scarecrows. Divide the students up into two teams. Using various scarecrow clothing items (hats, flannel shirts,bandanas, big sweatpants or overalls, big boots, scarves for straw, silly glasses, etc.), the children will play in a relay to see who can dress the scarecrow the fastest and/or the funniest. Each team should be in one line and take one clothing item to the scarecrow volunteer. (There should be one clothing item for each member of the team.) When the teams are finished dressing the scarecrow, they should sit down and be quiet. When both teams have finished, laugh over the silliness of the scarecrows and celebrate how each team worked together.

Briefly discuss Ephesians 4:16, which states, “From him the whole body, joined and held together by every supporting ligament, grows and builds itself up in love, as each part does its work.” Draw a parallel with the students. “Who built our scarecrows today?” (All of us.) “Did one person do all of the work?” (No. We worked together.) “Isn’t it better to work as a team?” (Yes!) “Did you know that God wants us to work as a team too? He wants us to love Jesus and one another. He wants us to grow in love, as each person does his or her part. That might mean that some of you should encourage others, some of you might teach a friend about Jesus, others of you might play with someone who doesn’t have a friend, pray for a missionary, or go visit someone who is sick. How does God want you to be a part of His team of love today?”

10 Ways to Manage Behavior Problems in Sunday School

Kristin Charles — Wed, 24 Aug 2011 12:12:50 +0000

It’s happened to all of us. We’re in the middle of an awesome lesson. Most of the kids are tracking with us, except that one.

That one is not only tuning out every word, but that one is hiding under the pew, flying a church bulletin airplane your way, or attempting to fit his entire foot in the offering envelope. Ahhh…. That one.

Let’s be honest. You love that one. You want to reach that one. You just don’t always know what to do with that one.

Maybe you’ve tried the best preventative strategies, but you are still frustrated with a child’s behavior in the middle of a lesson. Here are some oft-used teacher tricks of the trade to get a child tracking again.

Whisper: Make every child lean in to hear what you have to say, with the hope that the distracted/distracting child will follow in suit.
Stop Talking: Put your train of thought to a halt. Silence is a good attention grabber.
Stare: Glance directly at the child and make eye contact. Hold on until he/she is listening again.
Provide Presence: While you are speaking, naturally move over to where the child is seated. Continue the lesson from close range. Or, send another adult to sit next to the child using non-verbal cues.
Name Call: Work the student’s name nonchalantly into a relevant story, example, or commendation.
Role Play: Invite the student in question to act out a scenario with you. Provide the attention the child needs in a positive framework.
Give Responsibility: Assign the child a task to complete: Pass out papers or Bibles, hold a picture book, distribute other materials, keep time, hold a prop, etc.
Take Three: This technique would be discussed with the child prior to the lesson. If opportunities for discussion are given and the child in question tends to dominate discussion or talk out of turn, allow three times of talking. Have the child count the times on their fingers.
Special Signals: This is another technique to discuss ahead of time. Teach the child two signals that no one else in the room would catch. One sign would represent encouragement for a job well done; the other would be a warning/challenge issued for just them. The more quietly outlandish the sign, the better. (You’ll win a listening ear and a smile at the same time.)
Avoid Public Confrontation: Steer clear of calling a child’s name out for negative behavior. It will generally escalate from there. Instead, speak to the child after the lesson. Ask them if they can identify how they were a distraction. Tell them what you expect the next time. Use this brief chat to encourage them in love.

What tried and true techniques have you used before for that one student? How have they been helpful to you? Click here to leave a comment below.

“Minute to Win It” Game Ideas for Children

Kristin Charles — Wed, 17 Aug 2011 12:16:46 +0000

Do you need an icebreaker of sorts for your next children’s event? Minute To Win It games are great ways to begin an event, engage a crowd of children, and ramp up excitement. All of the games are played with easily accessible household items, so they are easy to prepare and of no cost to your ministry.

NBC provides a list of Minute To Win It games on their website. The following games are adaptations for children to play at home or in children’s church. Each game listed here provides a challenge for kids, but should be within their realm of development and skill, particularly for grades third through sixth. You may want to adapt as necessary for younger children.

If you play one of these games, you want the child to be successful. You also want the crowd to heap encouragement on the player, so lead the students likewise. If you sense a child is not going to make it in the designated time period, help them out. More challenging games can be interspersed for adults to win or lose (the sillier the better). Have “Thank you for playing prizes” as rewards (whether they win or lose). Have fun! “You’ve got 60 seconds!”

Minute To Win It Games for Kids

Bucket Head: Catch three balls in a bucket on top of your head.

Defying Gravity: Keep two balloons in the air.

Breakfast Scramble: Assemble the front of a cereal box that has been cut into eight pieces.

Dizzy Mummy: Unroll a small roll of toilet paper with 360 degree spins of the arm. (You may need to unravel some first to make it an attainable task.)

Elephant March: Knock over bottles using a baseball bat hanging from panty hose worn on the head.

Tissue Toss: Using both hands, empty a tissue box.

Play it By Ear: Place five cans with varying quantities of pennies in the correct order. (With a sharpie, place the numbers on the bottom.)

Separation Anxiety: Separate a pile of 25 multicolored chocolate candies into five separate containers in a set color order.

Candelier: Stack four layers of cans, with paper plates in between.

Tweeze Me: Players use tweezers to relocate five Tic Tacs from one bowl to another.

Have you utilized Minute To Win It games in your ministry? If so, what are some of your favorites for kids? Click here to leave a comment and share your ideas.

For more game ideas like this, check out the Minute To Win It games on Growing Kids Ministry and Effective Children’s Ministry.

Ready, Set, Splash! 10 Water Games for Kids

Kristin Charles — Mon, 08 Aug 2011 17:34:55 +0000

With scorching temperatures this summer, cooling off with some water games might just be the fun you need at your next children’s event. Here is an arsenal of popular water games to use at your next Vacation Bible School, Day Camp, church picnic, family day, or in your own backyard.

All that is required for most of these games are water balloons, giant sponges, containers, and access to a LOT of water. And of course a heads up for parents that it will be a “Water Day!” Make sure you are ready for a soaking as well! Ready, set, splash!

1. Water Balloon Spoon Races: Fill up small water balloons and race them on a spoon, much like an egg race. First to the finish line with balloon intact wins!

2. Water Balloon Toss: Grab a partner and stand across from them. Toss a water balloon back and forth, stepping further back with each toss. For a variation, consider catching the balloon in a bowl, bucket, or towel.

3. Dunk Tank, Water Balloon Style: There is no point to this one, except for getting wet. Place the water balloon on your head and squeeze until it pops. Substitute water balloons for water balls or giant sponges. Who looks the wettest?

4. Water Balloon Teamwork: Divide children into two teams. Have the children pair up within their team with a partner, back to back and linking arms. Place a water balloon between the two players. Have them carefully walk to a designated spot with a bucket. Together, they must get the water balloon in the bucket without popping it. After they run back, the next two players can go. The team with the most intact water balloons is the winner at the end.

5. Water Balloon Smash: Divide players into two teams and give everyone one water balloon. The objective is to run to a designated place with the balloon, sit on it to smash it, and run back.

6. Wet Sponge Relay: You will need two buckets filled with water, two empty jars, and two large sponges (like car wash sponges) for this game. Form two teams. Each team makes a line next to a bucket filled with water. When the game starts, have the first member of each team put the sponge in the water, put it on their head, and run towards a jar at the other end of the playing area. Squeeze the water into the jar and run back. Continue on with the rest of the players. The first team to fill the jar to overflowing wins.

7. Wet Sponge Over and Under Relay: You will need the same supplies as the Wet Sponge Relay. Form two teams. Each team makes a line. There is a bucket in front of the first player and a jar behind the last player. The first player fills the sponge and with two hands lifts it over his/her head to the next player. The next player takes the sponge and hands it back under their legs. Continue to hand it back over and under until you reach the last player, who squeezes it in the jar. Then he/she runs towards the front of the line to fill the sponge again and pass it. The first team to fill the jar to overflowing wins.

8. Wet Sponge Hot Potato: Everyone sits in a circle. Play music or sing a song. Pass the wet sponge around the circle. When the music has ended (just play a short segment) or the song is over, the person left with the wet sponge can squeeze it over their head. They can also choose to squeeze it over another child’s head. Refill the wet sponge and play again.

9. Wet Sponge Tag: Play the traditional game of tag. Designate a person to be “It”. “It” should have a wet sponge and run around to chase the others with it. The first person tagged becomes the next “It” and refills the sponge with water.

10. Wet Sponge Basketball: Divide the children into pairs and give each pair a wet sponge. One child will hold their arms in a hoop in front of them. The other will shoot for the hoop with the sponge. Substitute hula hoops if they are available.

What are some of your favorite water games to play with kids? Click here to leave a comment and let us know.

Preventing Heat Related Illnesses in Children

Kristin Charles — Sat, 23 Jul 2011 13:23:24 +0000

It is vital to be aware of heat related illnesses in children, especially if they are entrusted to our care for summer programming. The entire staff should be briefed on prevention, identification, and treatment.

Most likely, a child experiencing an illness of this nature has a hard time knowing what is going on. They could be engaged in a lively game, they might feel confused as to how they are feeling, or they may feel uncomfortable talking to a staff member about it.

Have you faced this problem with kids in your ministry? You can share your stories about heat related illness below.

Prevention of Heat Related Illness

Ensure that children utilize many opportunities for water breaks.
Plan outside activities in the early morning hours or in the evening.
When outside play is scheduled, meet in the shade or under a tent.

Identification of Heat Related Illness

According to WebMD, dehydration symptoms include thirst, fatigue, irritability, dry mouth, and feeling hot. As initial dehydration symptoms are ignored or unnoticed, heat illness with dehydration can occur. In that case, be on the lookout for these symptoms:

Heat Cramps: Cramping in the abdomen, arms, or legs
Heat Syncope: Weakness, fatigue, or fainting after activity
Heat Exhaustion: Excessive perspiration, fatigue, headache, dizziness, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, chills, weakness, cramping, severe thirst, irritability, blurred vision, and/or unconsciousness
Heat Stroke: This is characterized by a high body temperature (104-105 degrees), nausea, vomiting, seizures, disorientation, hot dry skin, unconsciousness, difficulty breathing, and decreased urination

Treatment of Heat Related Illness

Get help immediately.
Take the child to a cool, shady place.
Encourage child to drink water and sports drinks (such as Gatorade).
If he/she has layers of clothing on, have them remove the outer layers.
Have the child lie down.
Place a cool compress on his/her forehead.
Monitor him/her carefully.

***If a child experiences any symptoms of Heat Exhaustion or Heat Stroke, this is a critical medical emergency. Seek immediate professional medical attention. Heat Stroke can be life threatening. Until an ambulance arrives, hydrate the child if they are conscious. Keep them cool by spraying water and applying ice compresses. Contact the parent or guardian immediately.

Above all, safety in our ministries is a priority. Prevention and awareness of Heat Related illnesses is key. Be on the lookout for signs of stress and keep everyone drinking plenty of water!

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