Turn Story Time Into Moral Lessons
There’s no better way to capture a preschooler’s attention than with stories. Choose Bible stories that illustrate Christ-like behavior. Act out scenes, use character voices, and ask questions to make them think. For instance, start with ‘The Good Samaritan’ to teach kindness and compassion. Kids love to hear about heroes, and what better hero than Jesus? This way, they learn valuable life lessons in a fun and engaging manner. Sprinkle in some humor—like when you pretend to be a grumpy innkeeper—and you’ll have them in fits of giggles.
Create a Kindness Calendar
A Kindness Calendar can be a fun, visual tool. Use colorful paper and stickers to turn it into a daily activity. Each day, add a new act of kindness: sharing toys, helping around the house, or saying something nice to a friend. This not only builds up their character but also teaches them the joy of giving.
My little one loves sticking a gold star whenever they’ve accomplished a kind act. This daily practice instills Christ-like qualities in a way they can see and be proud of.
DIY Bible Crafts
Crafts are always a hit with preschoolers, especially when they’re related to Bible stories. Create Noah’s Ark with animal cutouts or make a colorful ‘Coat of Many Colors’ using paper and markers. Not only do these activities entertain, but they also deepen understanding of biblical teachings. Last Christmas, we made a Nativity scene with toilet paper rolls, and it was a huge success. These DIY projects make the stories come alive. Plus, they get to showcase their creations, making it even more memorable.
Role Play Biblical Stories
Role-playing is a powerful tool for reinforcing good behavior. Use simple props like towels for headscarves or cardboard for shields to act out stories of bravery, love, and kindness. Imagine having a bunch of mini ‘David and Goliath’s running around! Not only do they get to burn off energy, but they also absorb the moral of the story more effectively. My kid’s favorite is acting out ‘David and the Giant.’ This interactive playtime can turn learning into laughter-filled memories.
Start a Service Project
Service projects are wonderful for teaching the joy of helping others. Start with simple projects like creating ‘thank you’ cards for teachers or baking cookies for elderly neighbors. These activities make them feel they’re making a difference.
Last Easter, my family and I made care packages for the homeless, and I was amazed at how much my child understood and wanted to help. Initiating these kinds of projects cultivates gratitude and humility, core elements of a Christ-like character.