It’s a tricky time in our world. It’s the first time that we have experienced a pandemic, a time when schools across the country are cancelled for weeks, and a time when the store shelves are emptied of toilet paper and other necessities.
While it may be difficult to imagine a long-term quarantine, and a lack of childcare, there is a bright side to this pandemic. I’ve been reading The Power of Moments by Chip and Dan Heath, and it has reminded me to make the most of the time we have with our co-workers, friends, and family. So in this time of not knowing and frustration, we can also make the most of the moments we have with our children.
I’ve seen lists of things to do with children, including reading books, playing games, and going outside. Here is my list of five ways to teach your children about God in this season of uncertainty:
Memorize It: Work together to learn 2 Timothy 1:7, which says, “The Spirit God gave us does not make us afraid. His Spirit is a source of power and love and self-control,” ERV.
Fun tips:
- Write the verse on a mirror using a dry erase marker.
- Write each word on a separate sticky note and put the words in order.
- Say the verse and begin to skip words. Invite your child to fill in the missing word.
- Make up a song with the verse.
Give Thanks: Read Psalm 6:1: Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good; his love endures forever,” NIV. Then make a list of at least 10 things that make you thankful.
Fun tip: Note the date that you do this activity. If it’s March 15, make a list of 15 things.
Dirty/Clean: Use your hands to play in dirt or sand. After playing, help your child wash their hands. When you wash, remind your child that when we make bad choices (sin), it’s like getting dirty on the inside. But God gave His son, Jesus, to forgive our sins. It’s like washing away the dirt on our hands. When we wash our hands, we can remember that when Jesus forgives us, it’s like getting clean on the inside, washing away all of the bad choices (sins).
Fun tip: There’s a super cute song by Yancy called The Bath Song. It has a very similar message and is great for preschoolers.
I’m Scared: The news can sound pretty scary right now, to adults and especially to little ears. Have your children tell them what scares or worries them and use a dry erase marker to write these things down on a mirror, sliding glass door, or window. After the things are written down, read Philippians 4:6-7 (NIrV) out loud. Write down these key words as you read:
Don’t worry about anything. No matter what happens, tell God about everything. Ask and pray, and give thanks to him. 7 Then God’s peace will watch over your hearts and your minds. He will do this because you belong to Christ Jesus. God’s peace can never be completely understood.
Erase your child’s worries and fears, reminding them that God is in charge and that He gives us peace, the opposite of worry, when we ask him for help.
Act like Jesus: Make a list of things that your family can to do act like Jesus. The list may include things like this:
- Help those who need help.
- Be kind to those that others don’t like.
- Trust God the Father, even when it’s hard.
- Pray.
- Learn Bible verses.
Teaching Kids About God 