Activity: Thankful Hearts

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.

Introduction: Begin by asking the children if they know what it means to be thankful. Explain that being thankful means feeling grateful for the good things in our lives and showing appreciation for them. Tell the children that today, we will be learning about being thankful in the context of Christianity.

Activity: 1. Thankful Hearts Craft: Provide each child with a heart-shaped piece of paper and some art supplies such as markers, crayons, and stickers. Ask the children to decorate their hearts with things they are thankful for. Encourage them to think about things like their family, friends, pets, toys, and food. Once they have finished decorating their hearts, have them share with the group what they are thankful for.

1. Bible Story: Read the story of the Ten Lepers from Luke 17:11-19. Explain to the children that in the story, Jesus healed ten lepers, but only one of them came back to thank him. Discuss with the children why it is important to show gratitude and thankfulness.

2. Thankful Song: Teach the children a song about being thankful such as “Thank You, Lord” or “Give Thanks with a Grateful Heart”. Sing the song together as a group and encourage the children to sing along.

Conclusion: Gather the children together and ask them to share one thing they are thankful for. Remind them that it is important to show gratitude and thankfulness for the good things in our lives. Encourage them to continue to think about what they are thankful for and to show appreciation for those things.