It’s finally time to reveal our new children’s ministry curriculum lineup for 2026 and I couldn’t be more excited. The first installment is for January 2026 teaching dates. Level Up 4-Week Children’s Ministry Curriculum has a fun video game theme to encourage kids to take their relationship with Jesus to the next level in this New Year.
You can download the free sample lessons for Kids (ages 6-12 years old) and Preschool (ages 3-5 years old) directly below. Visit The Sunday School Store to purchase the complete units. All our 2026 curriculum lineup is available now in the 52-Week Children’s Ministry Scope & Sequence for 2026.
Here are the full details on the Level Up Curriculum for New Year.
💡 Big Idea: With Jesus, we can “level up” into a brand-new life and grow stronger in Him.
📖 Memory Verse: 2 Corinthians 5:17 — “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!”
🔍 Theme Hook: Retro video-game world. Use language like “press start,” “power-ups,” “coins,” “boss battles”—as kids “level up” their faith each week.
Kids hear a lot about New Year “resolutions,” quick fixes, and cheat codes—but those messages fade fast. This series helps children discover what God’s Word really says. Nothing in this world compares to God’s power to make us new.
✝️ Gospel Connection: Across four Sundays, kids see our need for a Savior, Jesus’ rescue, and how His Spirit helps us grow—so we trust Christ, not self-effort.
Video Bible Stories: Use this link to access recommended Bible story videos and bonus content for this curriculum series. https://linktr.ee/LevelUpLessons
4-Week Lesson Overview
Week 1 — Press Start: New Year, New You
Bible Story: New Creation in Christ (2 Corinthians 5:17)
Key Discovery: In Jesus, I’m made new—I get a fresh start.
Takeaway: I can always: Turn to Jesus and take my first step following Him.
Week 2 — Choose Your Player: God Knows You by Name
Bible Story: God’s call of Jeremiah (Jeremiah 1:5)
Key Discovery: God knows me, made me on purpose, and has a plan.
Takeaway: I can always: Trust God with who I am and use my gifts for Him.
Week 3 — The Ultimate Cheat Code: Prayer
Bible Story: Pray about everything (Philippians 4:6–7)
Key Discovery: I can talk to God about anything; He gives peace.
Takeaway: I can always: Pray first and receive God’s peace and power.
Week 4 — Final Boss: Jesus Resists Temptation
Bible Story: Jesus in the wilderness (Matthew 4:1–11)
Key Discovery: Jesus beat temptation with God’s Word—and helps me do the same.
Takeaway: I can always: Fight temptation by remembering Scripture and asking Jesus for help.
