Lesson Plan: The Death of Jesus (For Toddlers)
**Objective:**
Introduce toddlers to the story of Jesus' death in a gentle and age-appropriate manner, instilling a basic understanding that Jesus loves everyone and made a special sacrifice for us.
**Duration:** 20-30 minutes
**Materials Needed:**
- Children's Bible or Storybook with pictures
- Visual aids, such as felt board characters or illustrated story cards
- Coloring sheets and crayons featuring themes from the story (e.g., a cross, Jesus)
- Simple props for an interactive storytelling session (cloths, toy animals, etc.)
- Soft background music (optional)
**Preparation:**
- Pre-read the story from a children's Bible to ensure suitability.
- Arrange visual aids and props for easy access.
- Prepare coloring sheets and ensure crayons are ready.
**Lesson Introduction (3-5 minutes):**
1. **Welcome and Prayer:**
- Greet the children with a warm smile and introduce the day’s story.
- Say a simple prayer asking for God's blessing on their time together.
2. **Introduction to the Story:**
- Briefly introduce the topic. E.g., "Today, we're going to hear about a very special event in Jesus' life. It’s a story about how much He loves us."
**Storytime (10 minutes):**
1. **Tell the Story:**
- Use the children’s Bible or storybook to narrate the story of Jesus’ death, highlighting key points in a simplified and gentle manner.
- Emphasize that Jesus loves everyone and was very brave.
2. **Use Visual Aids:**
- Show pictures from the book or use illustrated story cards to make the story come alive.
- Use felt board characters to demonstrate the different parts of the story visually.
3. **Engage with Simple Questions:**
- Ask questions like "Who loves you so much?" and encourage the answer, "Jesus!"
4. **Interactive Elements:**
- Allow children to hold simple props or felt characters, helping them feel part of the story.
**Activity (7-10 minutes):**
1. **Coloring Time:**
- Give each child a coloring sheet and crayons.
- Encourage them to color while discussing the story softly. E.g., "What color is the cross? Can you make it pretty?"
2. **Simple Craft:**
- If time allows, consider a simple craft, like gluing paper cutout hearts on a cross shape, symbolizing Jesus' love.
**Conclusion (3-5 minutes):**
1. **Recap:**
- Briefly go over the main points of the story again.
- Reinforce that Jesus loves them very much.
2. **Closing Prayer:**
- Lead the children in a short, simple prayer thanking Jesus for His love.
3. **Song Time (Optional):**
- Sing a related song, such as “Jesus Loves Me.”
**Additional Notes:**
- Ensure to maintain a calm, nurturing atmosphere, as the topic can be sensitive.
- Use positive and loving language throughout the lesson.
- Be attentive to the children's reactions, providing reassurance and comfort if needed.