Activity: The Good Shepherd Game

Desired Outcome: As I play and learn, I am developing my understanding of what is fair and unfair and the importance of caring for, sharing and cooperating with others.

Curriculum Area: Religious and Moral Education

Curriculum Level: Early Level

Topic: Christianity - Jesus the Good Shepherd

Resources Needed: - Pictures of sheep and a shepherd - A soft toy sheep - A shepherd’s crook (can be made from cardboard or paper) - A large piece of paper or whiteboard - Markers or chalk

Introduction: Begin by showing the children pictures of sheep and a shepherd. Explain that in the Christian faith, Jesus is often referred to as the Good Shepherd. Ask the children if they know what a shepherd does and why they are important.

Activity: 1. Divide the children into two teams. One team will be the sheep and the other team will be the shepherds. 2. Give each team a soft toy sheep and a shepherd’s crook (can be made from cardboard or paper). 3. Explain that the sheep team’s goal is to get their sheep to safety (a designated area) while the shepherd team’s goal is to guide the sheep to safety using their crook. 4. Draw a large path on the paper or whiteboard and place obstacles along the way (e.g. rocks, bushes, fences). 5. The shepherd team must guide their sheep through the obstacles and to safety while the sheep team must follow the shepherd’s guidance. 6. If a sheep gets stuck or lost, the shepherd must go back and help them. 7. Once all the sheep have reached safety, switch roles and play again.

Conclusion: After the game, gather the children together and discuss the importance of caring for and guiding others. Ask the children how they felt when they were the shepherd or the sheep. Encourage them to think about how they can be like the Good Shepherd and care for others in their daily lives.