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The more a person engages, physically, mentally and emotionally with a Scripture, the more likely he is to retain it. According to Laurel and Associates, an international human resource development training and consulting firm, participatory learning activities are comprised of two modes, interactive and experiential learning activities. Interactive learning activities increase learning by mental stimulation and verbal expression, such as group discussion, games and crossword puzzles. Experiential activities provide emotional stimulation and physical expression with activities such as dramatization, role play, hands-on activities and physical movement. Engage in multiple, varied activities to maximize Scripture learning.
The liturgical calendar lists the various seasons and celebrations in the Christian year. Some church denominations, such as the Catholics, Anglicans and Presbyterians, pay more attention to the calendar. They may use the planned schedule of scripture readings each Sunday. Other denominations honor the main events such as Christmas and Holy Week, and give less attention to events such as Epiphany or Pentecost.
Pentecost, also referred to as Whitsunday, is one of the three great "blessed nights" of the Christian calendar, along with Christmas and Easter. Celebrated by Christians on the 50th day after Easter, the Pentecost celebration commemorates the gift of the Holy Spirit. According to the Bible, the Holy Spirit descended upon the apostles as a flame above their heads and gave them tongues of many languages. Pentecost activities can be performed by families, religious classes and school groups as a form of celebration of the Holy Spirit.
The birth of Jesus is a time to celebrate the gifts you have as well as remember the sacrifices of a brave man. Sometimes, in the excitement of the Christmas season, it is easy to forget the purpose behind the holiday. Making crafts that focus on the actual birth of Jesus can remind children of the core purpose of the holiday season.
Joseph was the 11th son born to Jacob, also known as Israel. Joseph had prophetic dreams that angered his brothers and made them jealous. They also envied Jacob because he was his father's favorite son, and Jacob gave Joseph a multi-colored tunic. Joseph's brothers sold him into slavery. and he ended up in Egypt where he became Pharoah's second-in- command. Children can learn the lessons of Joseph through various children's Bible activities.
Judaism is a rich and colorful source of lore and legend about ghosts and spirits. In addition to believing in the existence of ghosts from deceased humans, the Jewish religion and mysticism have records and classifications of many similar entities going back for thousands of years. Sometimes a force for good, other times a force for evil, ghosts in the Jewish world are complex and multifaceted.
Celebrating the seven sacraments of the Catholic faith demonstrates what is important and significant to believers. The seven sacraments are baptism, Eucharist, reconciliation, confirmation, marriage, holy orders and the anointing of the sick. Each sacrament is celebrated at a specific time. This could be during the mass or outside of usual mass celebrations. Learn about the sacraments by reading about them and participating in ceremonies.
The liturgical calendar is based on the major celebrations of Christianity. The periods of the liturgical calendar are advent, Christmas, ordinary time, Lent and Easter. Family activities during different periods of the liturgical year can be a good way to help children understand the liturgical calendar. The activities also provide the chance to explain parts of Christianity to the next generation.
Ephesians 6:17 tops off the list of a Christian's spiritual armor with the Helmet of Salvation and the Sword of the Spirit. The entirety of the passage in Ephesians 6 discusses the full armor of God, which includes the breastplate of righteousness, shoes of the Gospel of peace, and the shield of faith. Sunday School lessons and Vacation Bible Schools have used these passages, and have made crafts which help the students remember the point of the lesson.
Diwali diyas are a tradition in India during Diwali, which is the Indian New Year. Diyas are small lamps that are lit to commemorate the return of Lord Rama after his 14-year exile and the defeat of the demon Ravana. After being lit, the small lamps are placed in a circle in a family's home or floated down the river to pay tribute to ancestors or deities. Traditionally, diyas are made using a clay basin with a cotton wick set in oil called "Ghee"; however, modern diyas are often electric and come in a variety of styles.
"All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right," according to 2 Timothy 3:16. The Scriptures contain much wisdom regarding what believers should learn and how they should apply it.
The birth of Jesus, also known as Christmas, is an important Christian celebration. It marks the day when Jesus, the Son of God, became man and began his life on earth. Christmas is therefore directly connected to the salvation brought by Jesus, which is the central element of Christianity. Interactive crafts and activities can be used to teach children about this part of their religion.
After teaching the story of Noah, you're may want to get teenagers on their feet. This can help them remember the story and help them burn energy in a fun, productive way. Play games with Noah's Ark as the theme inside a classroom, or take everyone outside for more boisterous games.
The dedicated crafter can draw inspiration from the liturgical year. In the Roman Catholic tradition, the liturgical year is divided into six sections, each commemorating a different tradition in the Catholic faith. Liturgical year crafts can help to celebrate these events as a way of deepening one's faith or to create gifts to give to others who share your faith. Work the traditional colors associated with each season into your crafts.
Tudor architecture began in England during the 15th and 16th century. This style represented a movement from the Gothic tradition and toward one influenced by the Renaissance. In rural England, Tudor homes were modest in size, often had thatched roofs, and featured black and white half-timbered exteriors. More stately constructions were also possible with the Tudor style including country manors, long assembly halls, inns and even an occasional castle.
Psalm 8 is considered one of the nature psalms. It talks about the majesty of God and his creation and reinforces the concept that humans have been given dominion over all the earth and are expected to care for it. If you are teaching Psalm 8 in a classroom or a religious class, consider incorporating a hands-on learning activity that will reinforce student learning and make the lesson fun.
The story of Adam and Eve is more than a historical account of mankind's fall from grace. Recorded in the Bible's Book of Genesis, the story addresses temptation and discerning right from wrong. These are relatable to people today and may be of special interest to teens. Discussion helps them connect to the first citizens of the Christian faith, but adding games, projects and other activities reinforces life lessons that span from Eden to the world now.
Simply studying up on the particular liturgical season, or some specific element of it, as a spiritual discipline exemplifies one type of liturgical year activity for Catholics. Individual, family or parish-based activities in observance of the season provide another source of such activity.
It is important to teach children about the fruits of the Holy Spirit. As mentioned in the New Testament book of Galatians, some of these fruits include love, kindness, goodness and faithfulness. Even though children may not fully understand the entire concept, teaching them individual fruits of the Spirit is an excellent way to lead them on the right path to understanding. Once the child is old enough, she will understand that the fruits from the Spirit help her be a better Christian.
Crafts that help teach about the salvation of Christ are taught at Christian schools and churches during vacation Bible school and Sunday school classes. Children and adults share in making jewelry, crosses and ornaments during short craft sessions. Teen and adult crafters may find a hobby making artistic crosses and egguery displays that depict their belief in the new birth in Jesus.
For Christian denominations which embrace the sacramental nature of the Eucharist such as Catholicism and Orthodoxy, there are many principles and rules governing when you may and may not receive the Eucharist. One of the most important of these is during the course of a civil divorce, which may or may not have religious ramifications. Events such a this have important effects upon your ability to fully participate in this sacrament.
The Bible teaches children and adults many lessons about the history of Christianity and Judaism. Many of these lessons translate to today's world. Jesus' parables can come to life through interesting activities that will leave the kids with a lasting reminder of what the story is meant to teach.
Parents want to find effective and compassionate ways to shield and to protect their sensitive children from the emotional pains sensitivity brings. Christian parents want to introduce Scripture-centered and faith-based solutions as they provide their children with tools and a foundation for successful and joyous Christian living. While a sensitive child can pose a continuing challenge for concerned Christian parents, a Christian approach can yield rewards for parents and child.
Activities that are appropriate for Muslim children should take into account the beliefs of the Islamic culture. While young girls are captivated by Barbie, the doll's flamboyant clothing fails to reflect Islamic values. The Muslim answer to Barbie is Razanne, a doll that wears a hijab. Because Muslims only worship God, they don't depict humans or animals in their religious art. Instead, they use geometric designs or calligraphy. In addition to products developed by web and game developers for Muslim children, you can also tailor arts and crafts activities to honor Islamic beliefs.
Whether you are teaching a Sunday school class or you are a teacher in a Christian school, you will have to teach the parables -- simple lessons -- of Jesus to children at some point. Present a variety of activities to draw the children into the learning experience and leave them with the most important lessons.
It is never too early to teach children how and why they should share their faith in Jesus. Stressing this will increase a child's understanding of the revelation of Jesus by helping them know how to put what they have learned about God into words. This topic serves as an appropriate topic for a Sunday School lesson.
Writers create to share their ideas with others, and that motivation is even stronger when the ideas witness to your faith and the others with whom you want to share them are children. Unfortunately, curriculum publishing is mostly a business like any other. What that means most of all is that your first step to sharing your faith through publishing should be to know the business value of your unique witness: What does your curriculum offer that others don't, in its format, its applications, its insights or some other factor? Communicating that business value is what will get your material…
The May Crowning is a Catholic tradition that celebrates Mary, the Mother of God. May, a month named for Mary, brings an abundance of flowers in most parts of the world. The idea to decorate an image or statue with flowers grew out of pious tradition. At no time does the Catholic Church intend to worship the statue itself. Instead, the flowers serve as a way to bring the person the image represents into our minds. Much the same way a fancy, decorated frame goes around a picture of a loved one.
Scottsdale, Arizona, is one of the largest suburbs in the greater Phoenix area, and offers children the opportunity to tour art galleries and visit historic landmarks. When August rolls around, children have their last chance at summertime activities before school begins. The daily temperatures in Scottsdale during August are consistently over 100 degrees, so many children's activities take place in the evening, early morning or indoors.
In the Christian faith, Lent is the 40 days (not counting Sundays) before Easter that reflects a time of reflection, growth, sacrifice and prayer. Lent begins on Ash Wednesday and continues until Easter Sunday. When Lent begins, you may need ideas to teach your children the lessons that Lent offers. Children can learn about Lent by participating in activities with family or friends.
The Korean Peninsula of East Asia is home to North Korea, a Soviet-style socialist state, and South Korea, a free-market democracy; both were a unified country until 1948. Children from the Korean region are accustomed to being surrounded by friends and family members, and they play games and participate in other activities to pass the time. Despite the differences that divide the two countries, these children's activities are enjoyed by Koreans throughout the peninsula and across the globe.
Mark 2:1-12 from the Bible is the story of very special friends determined to bring their paralyzed friend to Jesus. They did not give up because the house was crowded. They opened a hole in the roof to let their friend down right in front of Jesus. Jesus healed their friend and then silenced those who criticized him when he also forgave the man's sins. Activities can help children better understand love and friendship.
Your friends or relatives have asked you to serve as a godparent for their baby -- but you belong to a different denomination. Because the role of a godparent is to raise and educate the godchild in the Christian faith, you may feel uncomfortable with the idea of teaching the child another tradition's beliefs. However, you can become a godparent or Christian witness for a child of another tradition, as long as you are willing to cooperate with her parents.
The Bible story from Mark 12:41-44 focuses on a poor widow who put all she had into the temple offering box. Though rich people put in greater amounts, Jesus told His disciples she actually gave the most because she gave all she had to give. Children's activities based on the story, sometimes known as the "Widow's Mite," can focus on a heart attitude toward God and how giving to the church helps others.
John Chapman was an orchardist who planted hundreds of apple trees throughout Illinois, Indiana and Ohio, thereby earning his nickname, Johnny Appleseed. Information on this American folk hero can be found at your local library, in the "A" volume of the encyclopedia, in some U.S. history books and in the children's section under "biographies." Information also can be found on the Internet by researching the names John Chapman and/or Johnny Appleseed.
Sometimes imparting beliefs to children can be difficult, since they don't necessarily understand complex issues or think abstractly like adults. That's why one of the easiest ways to pass on beliefs to children is to make the complex issue fun or interesting. For those who want their children to understand Jewish beliefs, those beliefs can be presented in the guise of games and activities.
Easter is a time of wonder for children. The Easter bunny leaves candy in the night, they search for eggs to win prizes and they hear the miracle of the Easter story. There are many activities for children that go beyond the egg hunt both in and out of the classroom.
In Luke 6:27-36 in the Bible, Jesus admonishes us to love our enemies. This is a difficult concept for anyone to completely grasp. Teaching it to children requires the instructor to be creative and offer fun activities along with the lesson. There are many options available to make this lesson fun.
Santa Claus, Christmas lights, decorations, trees and gifts often dominate the Christmas season. By keeping the activities in Sunday school about the birth of Jesus, it reminds children "Jesus is the reason for the season." Keeping the activities fun, while focusing on Jesus being the best gift of all, counteracts some of the commercialism that has overtaken the Christmas season.
Whether you're a parent or a Primary teacher, teaching LDS children to learn and love the scriptures can be a challenge. There are, however, a variety of games and activities that are designed to help you help children become familiar with the Standard Works of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, which are comprised of the Old Testament, New Testament, Book of Mormon, Doctrine and Covenants and Pearl of Great Price.
Games and activities are effective tools for going more deeply into Bible verses with children. Whether it's at Sunday School, Vacation Bible School or simply devotional studies at home, the understanding of Jesus' words in John 4:24, "God is a Spirit: and they that worship him must worship him in spirit and in truth," can be demonstrated to children through interactive games.
Jesus often taught in parables, stories with a meaning. He used stories because they were easy for the people to remember and relate to. He used common elements people would know. The Parable of the Pearl is actually two analogies found in Matthew 13:44-46. Children love stories and find parables easy to understand. Teachers enjoy parables with activities because children engage in ways that help them remember the story later.
Yom Kippur is the Jewish day of atonement. During this highly spiritual holiday, any female 12 years and older and any male 13 years and older refrains from eating and drinking. The holiday requires introspection. Each person examines relationships to other people, to God and to themselves. As children do not fast during the holiday, some activities offer a way for them to mirror their parents' observance. Other activities offer background and stories associated with the holiday.
In 2 Corinthians 12:9 Paul says, "I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ's power may rest on me." When most people talk about themselves, they try to highlight their best qualities. Paul, in this letter to the Corinthians, boasts about his weaknesses. He references a "thorn" in his flesh that the Lord would not take away. The Lord said to Paul, "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." There are many creative ways to teach this lesson to children.
During the season of Advent, religious teachers can use art activities to supplement their lessons about the Christmas story. Not only can these art projects be used as an educational tool, students can then share their work with their families for added decoration during the holiday season.
Learning about Russian culture involves not only understanding the historic aspect but the more modern portions as well. Children can learn about Russia through an assortment of activities focusing on the key cultural areas most easily understood by their age group. Centering activities around ideas and concepts children can understand can make for a good and enlightening experience.
The Southeast Asian country of Myanmar was know as Burma from the time it was conquered by Great Britain in the early 1800s until 1989. It has a population of more than 50 million, with nearly 30 percent under the age of 14. There are a number of traditional children's activities that can be used to teach children about the Burmese culture.
Christians revere Moses as a great man of faith. It was he that God used to lead the Hebrews out of the bondage of Egypt. According to tradition, it is he who wrote the first five books of the Bible. Studying the life and role of Moses is an integral part of any child's Bible education. Listed here are several activities to help teach children about Moses.
Anthropology, the study of human culture, is fundamental in every child's education to prevent discrimination and stereotypes. Children need to learn about cultures from all over the world, and with India being the second most populous country, it becomes an essential topic for every child. India is one of the oldest civilizations, so there is plenty of information for kids to learn, from food to religion and festivities.
Colonial children had less free time than children today and spent less time in school. Instead, most of their days were spent alongside their parents working to keep the house or farm running. Children were needed as helpers around the house, so leisure time was something that was not taken for granted.
Psalm 23 is part of the Old Testament, describing God as a shepherd. The Psalm depicts God taking care of his flock with goodness and mercy. In the Jewish tradition, it is believed that King David wrote this Psalm, as he was a shepherd during his youth. In Christianity, it depicts how God guides people to eternal life. When studying Psalm 23, arts and crafts activities for children may be incorporated into home worship or Sunday school, to help children gain understanding of the Psalms.
Saint Matthew was one of the twelve apostles of Jesus. Along with Saints Mark, Luke and John, Matthew was one of the four Evangelists credited with being the author of a gospel in the New Testament. Children often learn about Saint Matthew in Sunday school or other Christian studies programs through age-appropriate activities.
Biblical scripture is filled with timeless stories and lessons about what it means to be children of God. Nevertheless, sometimes children and families would like to celebrate this message in a more active, participatory way. Simple activities make it easy to learn about, express and share in the many ways and joys of being children of God with friends, family and neighbors.
The book of Genesis is filled with many captivating stories, including the story of Joseph. Many things---good and bad---occurred in Joseph's life at the hands of his family, the Pharaoh and God. The story includes many valuable life lessons that could be applied in real life. Use creative activities to assist children with the comprehension of Joseph's story.
Chapter 18 of the Book of Joshua describes the surveying and division of land among seven of the tribes of Israel. Joshua is responsible for dividing the land, and he does so by casting lots to determine where each tribe will settle. While Chapter 18 ends with the assignment of land boundaries and cities to the Tribe of Benjamin, this chapter is typically read and taught along with Chapter 19, which describes the rest of the tribes' land assignments and ends with Joshua receiving his inheritance from the seven tribes.
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints holds a General Conference twice a year in Salt Lake City, Utah. The event, which is broadcast around the world, draws more than 100,000 Mormons. The conference includes four general sessions over the course of the weekend that all church members, including children, are expected to view, and one special conference session for men and one session for women.
When designed for a variety of Bible themes and scenes, Christian children's coloring activities can range from simple picture coloring to craft coloring. When planning a coloring activity, ensure the activity relates to the planned lesson and that children can complete the activity in the allotted time. Plan your lessons so that each activity is age-appropriate for the children.
When the disciples rebuked parents for bringing their children to Jesus, Jesus stopped them, told them to bring the children to Him, and blessed them. Jesus said all must come to Him and trust Him as a child would. This Bible story can spark many meaningful activities for children, either in a religious education setting or at home with the family.
The Bible begins with creation and the Garden of Eden. God spoke the universe, the earth and all that is into existence. For five more days following the creation of light, God created more things to fill the heavens and the earth. On day six, God created humans to take care of the earth and fellowship with Him. Children's ministry programs can use enjoyable activities to learn and understand the story of creation.
Learning about the Bible may sound boring but in reality it can be a lot of fun. When teaching children about the Bible and its teachings, it is important to do more than just read to them. Having engaging, hands-on activities set up to teach them is the best method. This works well because they learn while they are being entertained.
Saint Gregory, also known as Pope Gregory I or Gregory the Great, was pope from 590 until 604. Gregory was a monk before he became pope. He is famous for both helping spread Christianity to northern Europe and also for various reforms within the Catholic Church, including what is now referred to as the "Gregorian Chant," a type of liturgy music. When introducing children to Saint Gregory, there are a few different activities you can present to them.
In Matthew 22: 34-40 Jesus is asked what the greatest commandment is. He responds by telling his followers the greatest commandment is to love God. It is important to build this lesson into children's ministry program. In addition to reading the Matthew 22 text, engage children in activities that reinforce the importance of the commandment and illustrates ways that children can show their love for God and for others.
Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego and their friend Daniel were hostages to King Nebuchadnezzar in Babylon. They were also royalty among their own people, the Israelites. Chapter 1 of the Book of Daniel tells how the four friends convinced the king and his chiefs that healthy foods, rather than rich foods, made them stronger in many ways. Chapter 3 tells that Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego chose to be thrown into a fiery furnace rather than bow to a golden statue.
Setting time aside daily to meditate on God's word is an important part of a dedicated Christian's service. However, it can be a challenge to keep children interested in doing daily devotionals, which are brief religious services. One way to keep them interested and excited about studying the word of God on a daily basis is combining a devotional reading and an enjoyable activity. For very young children, it helps to use a picture Bible that presents illustrated and simplified versions of classic stories, rather than reading the more complex Scriptures.
Children's Book Week is the annual nationwide celebration of books and reading for youth. Educators and reading enthusiasts in a variety of learning environments have been celebrating Children's Book Week since 1919. There are a variety of fun and inspiring activities that can be carried out to celebrate Children's Book Week.
In the Biblical parable of the 10 virgins in Matthew 25:1-12, the virgins are waiting for the bridegroom to come to take them into the party. Half of them are unprepared and have to go and buy fuel. They are missing when the bridegroom comes and do not get to go into the wedding feast. Christ explains in Matthew 25:13 that the parable teaches the reader to be prepared, because no one knows when He will return in the second coming, and the unprepared will not get into heaven. Use activities that focus on the lesson of the parable to…
Apologetics is the basic study of Christian principles. Apologetics gives children a firm grounding in Christian ideals and principles that in turn helps them to form their opinions about God and the world from an early age. There are many ways and activities that parents can use to guide their children so that they can defend and express their Christian identity.
There are many activities you can use to teach children the Parable of the Good Samaritan. Jesus told the story in the Gospel of Luke, recounting how a Jewish man was beaten, robbed and left beside the road. Two people passed him by before a Samaritan stopped to help him. The story resonated with Jesus' audience because Samaritans and Jews generally hated one another and went to great lengths to avoid one another. Jesus used the story to illustrate to his listeners how each person should be treated with compassion, no matter the individual's background. The lesson of the Parable…
The story of Noah and the ark is highly visual. It appeals to children because boats, animals and rainbows catch their attention. It is easy for children to find ways to express the excitement of the story and the happiness of its outcome. The story of Noah has been represented in the toy box for centuries. Children and adults in each generation have crafted models of the ark and the characters in the story.
Children often occupy their leisure time in play, but the types of play often differs from decade to decade. The 1930s was the midst of the Great Depression, and children commonly resorted to creating their own games with the few toys they had. Activities were often imaginative and toys homemade or very cheap, yet children were still able to enjoy their free time.
Children's activities on the Tudor Trail can cover numerous topics on the reign of the Tudor Monarchs. Activities can revolve around the wives of Henry VIII and the reasons he married multiple times, Tudor clothing, architecture, music and food. Children can also explore major events, such as the Spanish Armada and the Protestant Reformation, via time lines and role-play scenarios. The Internet offers an abundance of historical photographs and documents that reflect the Tudor style of English handwriting and lifestyles of the Tudor people.
Pentecost originates from the Jewish Festival of Weeks, celebrated 50 days after Passover. Today, Christians celebrate the feast of Pentecost 50 days after Easter. It celebrates the moment when the Holy Spirit empowered the followers of Christ. According to the Bible, the followers of Jesus were hiding in an upper room when the Holy Spirit descended upon them with a great wind and tongues of fire. Afterward, the followers went into the streets, where they spoke in a variety of languages.
Teaching children about their heritage and culture is a vital step in their formative learning and social awareness. Indian children in particular have a rich and vibrant culture that can be easily tapped into without breaking the bank or having to take them aboard. You might have an Indian family yourself or you could just be raising awareness with your children and their Indian friends -- either way, some fun activities include cooking and putting on an Indian-themed party.
The liturgical calendar, or church year, is a calendar used predominately by the Catholic Church to mark religious feasts and saints days. Movable feasts change date in accordance with Easter, other celebrations, like Christmas, occur on the same date annually. Both Christian and Catholic schools often celebrate events on the liturgical calender. Activities to celebrate feasts and saints days should be both edifying and fun for children.
The Beatitudes are a series of of eight phrases that were uttered by Jesus, explaining how Christians should act toward others and themselves. The Beatitudes are taught to children within the Catholic Church as a part of their training leading to their first communion. Teachers can use activities to help the children learn and memorize the Beatitudes for the purpose of their first communion and to carry with them for the rest of their lives.
The Bible describes the Shunammite woman as a wealthy and well-respected person in the society. Three qualities that the Shunammite woman possessed and that are said to be essential in every woman of God were contentment, a kind heart/compassion and persistence. Children's activities on the Shunammite woman can either be historical or focus on Bible verses that discuss this topic. The activities might also center around qualities that the Shunammite woman possessed.
While "sin" sounds like a sinister word, it is a simple way to designate all the wrong choices a person makes, the wrong things said and done, and the things that are against the principles God laid out. Activities to help children understand the sin of cheating, stealing and greed start with helping the children "see" the consequences of sin as well as the forgiveness Jesus offers for Christians.
The Lord's Prayer has several variations, most very similar to this traditional version from the Anglican Book of Common Prayer, 1662: "Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name. Thy Kingdom come, thy will be done, on Earth as it is in heaven Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom, the power and the glory, for ever and ever. Amen."
As children's responses to information mature, introduce them to elements of the Bible to satisfy their curiosity and to challenge them. The Bible offers page after page of learning opportunities. Its stories about God's interactions with humans can teach children fundamental Christian beliefs and values. They can begin a lifelong journey of faith rooted in the primary source of all Christian understanding -- the Holy Bible.
Every Bible narrative, hymn and prayer teaches the central idea of obedience to God out of gratitude for His mercy and blessings. Engaging children in activities with Christian obedience lessons lays a foundation for understanding concepts that are more complex in later years. As you introduce children to the idea of Christian obedience, they explore the Bible, which strengthens their religious education. Show children the many ways God calls them to obedience in their daily lives.
Saving the environment is a big task, but you don't have to be a grownup to make a difference. Children can play a part in making the world a better place and keeping Mother Earth healthy by engaging in environmentally sound activities. By encouraging children to use their time in this productive and earth-friendly manner, you can prepare them to be greener citizens in the future.
Children who have lost loved ones may not have a concrete concept of what Heaven is, who goes to Heaven, how people go to Heaven and why there is a Heaven at all. Activities help children understand the concept of Heaven.
Ramadan is the ninth month on the Islamic calendar, an important holiday celebrated by billions of Muslims worldwide. The holiday is based on the moon's movements, inner reflection and a desire to get closer to God. Children can participate in the holiday through engaging activities teaching them its cultural importance.
Psalm 121 is one of the Songs of Ascent. These 15 psalms are thought to have been part of a collection of hymns sung by people making a pilgrimage to Jerusalem for one of three yearly celebrations. Help children understand the context and meaning of this psalm by involving them in some of the following activities.
The creation story provides ample opportunities for a teacher to reinforce God's love and power through activities relating to the seven days of creation as revealed in Genesis, the first book of the Bible. Activities focus on what happened each day of creation and focuses on the reasons God created not just a beautiful world, but also humans and animals to inhabit this world.
In Catholicism, Ash Wednesday is a significant day that marks the beginning of Lent. Traditionally, mass services are held where practitioners receive ashes on their foreheads in the sign of a cross. For children learning about Ash Wednesday and Lent, games and activities help to educate them on the significance of this traditional Catholic celebration.
"The Pilgrims' Progress" isn't a book to be read quickly. It is a classic adventure story of Christian's journey to the Celestial City. Along the way, he is encouraged and assisted, as well as discouraged by enemies and his own bad choices. The book is a series of adventures that provides learning and follow up opportunities for children who are either reading it themselves or listening to the book being read.
Crosswords and puzzles based on the Bible are excellent ways to engage students and extend Bible learning beyond the classroom. Puzzles and crosswords are fun compared to simple study activities and will help to keep your students motivated toward their studies. Finding Bible activities is relatively straightforward as there is a vast community of people who develop Christian games and puzzles and provide them in several different media formats.
For adults who work with children, as teachers, coaches, counselors or others, there are special concerns associated with children from single-parent homes. Because so many children live primarily with only one of their parents, experts have had many years to determine some basic guidelines to working with these children and their families.
Children love dramatic play. During the fall season, leaves are usually abundant, and teachers and other caregivers can use these to create themed activities for children that ask them to focus on storytelling and acting. These activities can be modified to fit different acting abilities and preferences.
In the parable of the great banquet (Luke 14:15-24), Jesus tells of a man whose friends reject his invitation to a feast. In response, the man opens the invitation to everyone--"the poor, the crippled, the blind and the lame"--just as God welcomes the poorest and most despised to his heavenly feast. Some simple activities can help bring the story to life for children.
Worship songs are a popular Christian faith phenomenon, especially in the U.S. These songs are usually set to catchy tunes, meant to stimulate the emotions of the congregation and to encourage their active participation in the services. There are worship songs for all ages, from the adult church congregation to preschoolers and kindergartners in Christian Sunday school.
The Feast of St. Francis on October 4 each year honors St. Francis of Assisi, the patron saint of animals, merchants, and ecology. Francis, who died in 1226, created a brotherhood, known as the Franciscan Order, after he experienced a spiritual shift in which he turned from a life of luxury to a life of simplicity. Get children involved with aspects of St. Francis' mission with activities that help them learn about and experience the beauty of the natural world and the creatures inhabiting it.
Christian retreats emphasize community and faith. Plan retreat activities to bring children into closer relationship with each other and with God. Christian children's retreat activities include icebreakers, prayer exercises and faith-focused team building. Organize activities according to your retreat theme, the length of the retreat and the participants. Gather participants throughout each day and in the evening to keep them grounded. Stretch guests' comfort zones to guide them into closer harmony with God and their fellow humans. Provide a sense of strength and wisdom throughout all of your retreat activities.
The development of self-esteem begins very early in life. Knowing this, it's important for parents to be aware of how their child's self-image begins to develop and to respond accordingly. Many different activities can help your child develop appropriate self-esteem and a proper view of himself.
Diwali is a Hindu festival celebrated in India and Nepal. The festival is celebrated in October or November, and features lighted decorations, fireworks, gift exchanges, sweet treats and many other fun traditions. Symbols of light and good luck are displayed; and traditions such as using noisemakers to scare away bad luck are practiced. Diwali crafts and activities will teach children about this Indian holiday.
In the Bible, Jesus talks about faith the size of a mustard seed moving mountains in Matthew 17:20. Help children understand this concept by showing them a mustard seed and extending the story into activities to reinforce their learning. Take into account the age and ability level of the children to help you select the best mustard seed faith activities for your group.
Parents spend hours agonizing over choosing the perfect, most unique, special and original names for their children, yet sometimes these names just don't fit. Luckily, anyone over the age of 18 may legally change her first or last name, provided that it is for a legal reason and not as a means to commit illegal activities. Parents may also change the first and last names of their minor children.
A Christian children's choir is a practical way to exhort creative and social development in youngsters, while simultaneously strengthening their relationship with God. Music serves as the bonding glue between the children, the instructors and their faith in Jesus Christ. Having a wide variety of activities for a Christian children's choir helps the children stay interested in their spirituality and devoted to their commitment to the Lord.
According to an Allpsych journal article called "The Psychological Effects of Violent Media on Children" by Aimee Tompkins, sixty percent of television shows that children watch include violence. Kids at the age of six watch about two hours of television per day. That may seem like a small chunk, but in that time, children's minds are being fed media images and television shows that are full of negative images and violent behaviors. A parent should know the risk and must recognize the signs that the child is becoming a risk taker and engaging in violent activities.
In Mark 9:14-29, Jesus healed a boy who had a an evil spirit. Jesus' disciples could not cast out this demon. Some elements of this lesson include Jesus' power that can overcome even the most difficult circumstances. Jesus said that this kind of difficult obstacle can only be solved with prayer; and Jesus showed compassion when he healed the boy. A familiar memory verse is Mark 9:23, "Everything is possible for him who believes."
Teaching strategies used in a classroom by teachers change over time. It can be defined as the way students learn. For instance, using the Internet within assignments was impossible decades ago. As technology and information evolves, the teaching strategies implemented do as well. Depending on the students, some methods work more effectively. It is the teacher's job to discover the key and use classroom teaching strategies to engage the students effectively. Teachers, instructors and professors all share the same duty; they must disseminate knowledge to their classes using the best strategy possible.
Christmas is not a commercial celebration in Spain. It is a religious holiday that gives families a chance to go to church and then enjoy a special holiday meal together. Spanish Christmas celebrations include beautiful carols, tasty holiday foods, charming holiday decorations and long-standing family traditions. Give your children a taste of a Spanish Christmas with these simple activities.
The Third Sunday of Easter generally celebrates Christ's appearances to the disciples and others after the Resurrection and before the Ascension. Children's activities for the Third Sunday of Easter should be guided by the annual calendar of biblical readings (lectionary). For example, in 2010, the reading for the Third Sunday of Easter included the Gospel reading, John 21:1-19, which describes Jesus' appearance to the disciples at the lake. Activities for the gospel reading invite children to imagine the miracle of the Resurrection and its meaning for life today.
Noah's Ark is one of the most familiar Bible stories. Noah was a man who obeyed God's instructions to build a huge ark. Noah then collected animals to live in the the ark with him and his family while God flooded the earth. Noah's Ark is a popular theme for room decor and Sunday School lessons, and the story inspires many activity ideas as well.
Lent is the season beginning with Ash Wednesday and continuing 40 days through Easter. During the Lenten period, Christians focus on the sacrifices Jesus made for them, and there is an emphasis on sacrificing for others. This theme lends itself to several activities for children which will help them better understand the meaning and spirit of the Lenten season.
Children are the future of the world today. If we invest values, principles and honor into raising our children to reflect goodwill and peace toward others, then their future will be enhanced tremendously. Not only are children highly impressionable, but they are also very creative, honest and playful. There are many examples of peacemaking activities for children to engage in that will help to teach and transfer the principles that make up attaining and maintaining peace between people and communities.
Some Christian denominations observe Advent the four weeks before Christmas. It is characterized as a season of waiting, which can be difficult for children who are excited for Christmas. Advent crafts and activities help children understand Advent and provide a concrete way to mark the time until Christmas.
There are many ways to connect with the kids in your care at church. Get on their level by leading activities that promote relationships and you're sure to touch their hearts. Whether you're looking for activities for children's church, Sunday school, vacation Bible school or any other type of ministry, these suggestions will appeal to kids.
Many activities can help children understand Jesus' three parables in Luke 15. Luke 15:4-7 tells about a shepherd who left his 99 sheep to find the one sheep that was lost. In Luke 15:8-10, a woman who lost one of her 10 silver coins immediately swept her house to find it. Luke 15:11-32 is the familiar story of the prodigal son who squandered his inheritance and was welcomed with a feast when he returned home.
Jesus' parable of the rich fool is told in Luke 12:16-21. Jesus recounts the tale of a rich man who wonders what to do with his abundant crops. He decides to build larger buildings to hold his bounty, but does not realize that he will die that very night. The parable is a classic warning against greed, encouraging us to look after our souls as well as our physical possessions.
Building character qualities like honesty, compassion and determination are a growing component of scholastic programs as well as extracurricular programs for children. Nonprofit organizations that work with children frequently include character education as one of their goals for participants. Classrooms and schools also often have lists of character traits that they want students to learn and practice. The best way for children to learn these kinds of traits is through projects and activities that give them opportunities to demonstrate and practice them.
Building relationships within a group of children takes time and patience, even in a church setting. To help them along, try some icebreakers and group activities that will require them to interact with each other, especially with those that who are outside their clique of friends.
The Lord's Supper is a meal that was shared by Jesus and his disciples just before Jesus' death. During this meal, Jesus predicted his death, and he used bread to symbolize his body and wine to represent his blood. Taking communion (as some denominations term it) is a way for Christians to remember the sacrifice that Jesus made. Using crafts is a good way to help children understand the meaning of the Lord's Supper.
It is important to teach children the importance of the seven sacraments as a part of the Catholic Church--baptism, the Eucharist, reconciliation, confirmation, marriage, holy orders and anointing of the sick. These ceremonies not only point to what is sacred in Christianity, but also provide a means of ritual so that transitions within the faith are smoother and more special for the individual and community. Activities that gently educate kids about these sacraments will give them a better understanding of their meaning and importance.
The story of Moses is shared by Jewish and Christian traditions. Moses' story spans a long lifetime filled with experiences that are rich with lessons about faith, trials and God's plan for people. With focused activities that are age-appropriate, teachers can provide children with lessons about Moses from his infancy through his remarkable experiences that the children will take with them and use in their daily lives.
Teaching the Ten Commandments is a very common activity in Christian schools and Sunday schools. Because there are 10 commandments, it can take a while to get children to remember them, especially if you want them remembered in order. Activities and crafts give children a way to have fun while learning about the commandments. There are numerous activities, and you can pick one or several to help teach children about the Ten Commandments.
With all of the animals at shelters, it is beneficial for people to do what they can to help them. It is especially important for children to do their part and help. An animal shelter is a wonderful place for a child to lend a hand. Each city has a local animal shelter, and it is easy to be of assistance by calling your local branch.
One of the easiest ways to get children to learn and remember a lesson is to do so through interesting and fun activities. This holds true for children who are being taught about the Bible and Christianity. Coming up with activities may be a little challenging, though, especially when dealing with younger children. So it's best to pick projects that are easy to complete and that have a very simple and easy-to-understand lesson.
A major problem gripping the youth of America is boredom. Many young people go home after school and are unsupervised until their parents come home, which is why after-school programs are necessary.
Children's liturgy usually takes place during or after a regular Christian church service. It is intended to engage children in age-appropriate religious lessons and activities, which often follow the Gospel, homily or lesson of that week's service. Following some simple themes, it can be easy to create effective activities for children's liturgy.
Trinity Sunday is a Christian holiday celebrating God as Father, Son and Holy Ghost (or Spirit). A holiday celebrated by both Catholic and Protestant worshipers, Trinity Sunday concepts and scripture readings may be abstract for children. Help them understand the doctrine and beauty of the Trinity through the use of activities that will allow them to learn and participate in this special day.
In Galatians chapter five, verses 22 and 23, the Bible says, "But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such there is no law." Children can begin learning how to display these "fruits" from a young age through lessons, games and crafts about what these concepts mean in their daily lives. Emphasize that these fruits come from God, and that the Bible teaches that nobody can be loving, joyful, peaceful, patient, kind, good, faithful, gentle and in control all of the time without God's help.
The parable of the Pharisee and the Tax Collector, found in Luke 18:9-14, contains an important lesson about thinking that we are better than others. While this story resonates with children, using activities to supplement the story helps them remember the story more sharply and put the lesson into practice. As you tell this story, however, don't glorify the tax collector. Remember that he was a sinner; God forgave him because of his humble attitude. Emphasize God's forgiveness.
The Bible contains several stories to help children learn about God's Word. One of the most popular choices for parents and Bible teachers is the story of Creation and Adam and Eve. After children learn about why Adam and Eve were cast out of Eden, let them participate in these fun related activities.
Children love to have fun, so when you combine activities with Bible stories, kids are more likely to remember the lesson being taught. Children's biblical activities can be creative, informative and affordable. Whether you're creating activities for Sunday School, VBS or a family event, there is an activity that is perfect for your event. Taking time to contemplate and pray about the activities will help provide direction and confidence in the activity you choose.
The unmerciful servant is a parable about a man who owed his master a large debt. He could not repay the debt, so he begged for more time, and the master agreed. Then the servant went out and found another man who owed him money, and had that man thrown into prison because the man could not repay his debt. When the master discovered that his servant had not shown charity to another even though he had shown charity to the servant, the master had the servant imprisoned. Teach this lesson to your children with a few simple activities.
A calling to work in the LDS Nursery can be difficult. It is important to learn to reach out to the little children and to help them feel comfortable in Primary. An LDS Nursery worker needs to focus on maintaining control and creating a safe environment for the children while keeping the nursery running smoothly.
The purpose of activities designed specifically for Christian children should be to teach them about Christianity. The Bible says in Proverbs 22:6, "Train a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it." Christian parents can use various interactive activities to "train" their children about God, the Bible and Jesus Christ, so that they can develop in their understanding and practice of Christianity as they grow.
Sequoyah was a member of the Cherokee Nation and a great man among his people. Sequoyah, whose name means "Pig's Foot" in Cherokee, was born in 1776 in Tennessee. In 1809, he started developing a writing system to use with the Cherokee language. Until his death in 1843, Sequoyah served his people as a diplomat, co-founded the first national bilingual newspaper and helped many young Cherokees learn to read and write.
The London Zoo can't be overlooked if you're visiting the London area, especially if you have children with you. It can be an educational and action-filled day trip to provide distraction and interest. The London Zoo is famous for its strong stance on conservation and providing very little change to habitats for preservation.
Online bullying, also known as online social cruelty, can be as devastating as real-world bullying. Children and young adults who have experienced online bullying can become depressed, despondent, antisocial and even suicidal. Preventing and dealing with online bullying is not easy, but it is necessary and a little knowledge can help any adult intervene in a meaningful and productive way.
Beautiful bulletin board displays are a great way to decorate a classroom and make learning fun. Displaying the Ten Commandments on your classroom or Sunday school bulletin board is a great way to keep them out in the open and fresh in our minds, reminding us all of God's Word, or to accompany any lessons or units involving them. Try this great idea for a Ten Commandments bulletin board design to get your students interested.
Starting a christian school takes a lot of dedication, hard work and prayer. It takes a solid belief and philosophy to build an unbreakable foundation of spiritual education. It takes planning and community support, as well as support from churches, pastors and parents. Planning can take a year or more before the school actually opens, but if it is all done correctly, the rewards can be great. Before you know it, you can introduce God back into the classroom again.
Ontario is “yours to discover” and so are their ghosts! Haunted mansions and old forts, spooky desolate roads and fancy museums, Ontario’s ghost population knows no boundaries. This is a place for a ghost hunting vacation, and hearing local stories is easy in this beautiful country. Ready to meet some spectral residents in Canada? Let’s go.
The Sons of Norway was organized in Minneapolis, Minnesota, in 1895 as a benefit association meant to protect members from financial hardship. Over time, the mission grew to include preserving Norwegian heritage and culture, and the Sons of Norway is now the largest Norwegian organization outside of Norway. Lodge activities include classes in the Norwegian language, summer camps, scholarships, classes in traditional Norwegian cooking and handicrafts, heritage programs and travel opportunities. Financial benefits are still provided, as well, in the form of insurance programs and scholarships.
Raising Christian children might be more difficult than it sounds. There are so many issues arising in the church that make the adults not want to attend let alone encourage them to grow as Christians. Here is how to raise Christian children while growing yourself.
