I wanted to look at the Jewish ‘High Holy Days’ as they are known, to find some rituals we could use to enrich our faith at home. I’m not going to give an exhaustive overview here, (because you have google too!) but my focus is what elements we could adapt and use. In Autumn there … Read more
“People who learn to ‘sit still and be quiet’ in church during the early years of their life are more likely to continue to ‘sit still and be quiet in church as adults.” Sharon had me with this quote… let me give a few headlines and then you can read what else I discovered: Title: … Read more
A little post in response to Kate Mitchell’s question on Facebook Offering spiritual play opportunities is something a little different from our usual tell a Bible story and do Thanks / Sorry / Please prayers. It involves more trust – trust in the methodology, in our children and, of course, in God! An easy way … Read more
This is a simple activity which can be used as an exploration of any Bible story. I use it at home and also in our church as part of our intergenerational service at Easter. The idea is to have lots of abstract shapes for people to create their own pictures with. The pictures could be … Read more
I wonder what part of the Easter story you like best? Which part have you particularly noticed this year? I wonder what you might make out of these shapes? I love open-ended activities. We have creative materials out all the time for my daughters to create something whenever the mood takes them. And they do! Often … Read more
I love Advent and candles. Here’s a really simple idea for using them to develop thankfulness in the run up to Christmas. It doesn’t take long, but a few moments each day will help develop a habit of thankfulness in a month when so much is trying to pull us away from it. You might … Read more
My name is Victoria and I’m a nativity scene addict. There. I’ve said it. I just love nativity sets, especially ones which everyone can touch, play with and enjoy. There are some lovely ones about, and although it may seem like quite a bit of money, I’ve found this is one of the best ways to engage … Read more
Title: Comfort in the Darkness – helping children draw close to God through Biblical stories of night-time and sleep Author: Rachel Turner Useful for: parents of children aged 0-10ish looking for Bible stories and activities to explore God and nighttime. Best bit: brilliantly re-told Bible stories and succinctly written ideas to help children in their relationship with God. Worst bit: no pictures … Read more
A simple way to bring a moment of quiet in a busy Advent season is to use a candle. Just lighting it and watching the flame seems to allow time to slow a little. You can use an Advent Candle (see here for ways of making one) or simply a plain one. Here’s some ideas … Read more
Exploring Generosity is a 32 page, full colour book from GodVenture in partnership with 40acts. WHATS INSIDE? Each activity has It’s a fab way for families to explore the Bible and let God speak with them about generosity. HOW TO USE THIS BOOK FOR AN ALL-AGE SERVICE Around your meeting place, set up some stations based on activities from … Read more
This is really similar to the Thanks jar but without the risk of broken glass, either in the session or at home. It works at any time of year, but I like to do it at the start of the year. We did it at our Messy Church, using one box for thank you words … Read more
Have fun with some pumpkins in October by celebrating the light of Jesus. Instead of carving scary faces, create a positive image such as a cross or the letters of the word ‘Jesus’. (I’ve tried to do an angel but haven’t managed so if you do, please send me a photo!) Look up some Bible verses … Read more