**Lesson Plan: The Second Coming of Jesus**
**Age Group:** Toddlers (Ages 2-3)
**Duration:** 20-25 minutes
**Objective:**
- Introduce toddlers to the concept of the second coming of Jesus in a simple and engaging manner.
- Help children understand that Jesus loves us and promises to return.
- Teach basic Christian values of hope, patience, and excitement for Jesus' return.
**Materials Needed:**
- Children's Bible or Storybook Bible with illustrations
- Simple visuals or felt board figures (Jesus, clouds, happy people)
- Coloring pages related to Jesus' second coming
- Crayons or washable markers
- Small musical instruments (like tambourines or maracas)
- Simple snacks for the end of the lesson
**Lesson Outline:**
1. **Welcome and Introduction (3-5 minutes)**
- Welcome each child warmly.
- Gather the children in a circle to create a sense of community.
- Lead a short, simple prayer thanking Jesus for loving us and being with us.
2. **Bible Story Time (5-7 minutes)**
- Introduce the story by saying, "Today we will learn about a wonderful promise Jesus made to us."
- Use a Children's Bible to briefly tell the story about Jesus' promise to return. Keep the language simple: “Jesus loves us very much, and He promised to come back one day to take us to His beautiful home in Heaven.”
- Show pictures or use felt board figures to keep the children engaged.
3. **Discussion and Simple Questions (3-5 minutes)**
- Ask toddlers simple questions to reinforce understanding and engagement:
- “Who loves us very much?” (Jesus!)
- “What did Jesus promise to do?” (Come back!)
4. **Activity: Coloring Time (5-7 minutes)**
- Distribute coloring pages with images related to Jesus' second coming.
- Provide crayons or markers and encourage the children to color while discussing the story. Use this time to individually engage with each child and talk about Jesus.
5. **Song and Dance (3-5 minutes)**
- Teach a simple song about Jesus’ return, such as “He's Got the Whole World in His Hands” or “Jesus Loves Me.”
- Hand out small musical instruments and encourage the children to play along and dance.
6. **Closing and Snack Time (5 minutes)**
- Gather the children for a closing prayer. Thank Jesus for His love and His promise to come back.
- Share a simple snack, reinforcing the sense of community and sharing among the children.
7. **Goodbye (2-3 minutes)**
- Thank each child for coming and participating.
- Give each child a small take-home sheet or sticker related to the lesson.
**Notes:**
- Keep the lesson light and engaging, as toddlers have short attention spans.
- Be sure to use positive reinforcement and praise for participation.
- Maintain a safe and loving environment throughout the lesson.
This plan aims to gently introduce the concept of Jesus' second coming in a way that fosters curiosity, engagement, and foundational Christian values among toddlers.