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Thursday, December 13, 2012

Miracle in a Manger

We want to thank everyone who donated towards the "Miracle in the Manger" books! Each of the children at Joyful Noise were given a book along with a few little treats as a special gift from their Growing in Grace teachers! The children were delighted to receive their book and we really hope you enjoy reading it with your child!
 
 
If you like the book, "Miracle in a Manger" be sure to check out CTA's website! Their site features many wonderful books and gifts for the whole family! Christian Tools of Affirmation.
 
   
       This month we have been focusing on Jesus' birth! During chapel we have been reviewing the nativity story together and singing Christmas songs. Next week we are planning a special "Celebration Chapel" where the children will come together and celebrate Jesus' birth together.
 
       During the holidays it is easy to get swept up in the rush of presents, parties, and other various activities. However; below we have a few simple activities you can do with your child this Christmas to reflect on the simplicity of the nativity story and remember the true reason for the season!  
 
The Nativity

Materials:

·  Durable Manger Scene

Instructions: As your children play with a nativity set, help them name the characters in the story to help them remember the story of Jesus' birth and to reinforce Biblical truth.

Language to use: “You are playing with Joseph, Joseph was Jesus’ earthly dad.” “Joseph was glad Jesus was born.” “I’m glad that Jesus was born, too.”

Note: Using simple language with your children is important in helping them retain information and building language.
 



A Special Gift
 
Materials:
·     Paper, Glue, Markers, Pieces of Gift Wrap, and Ribbon
 
Instructions: Cut a piece of paper into a square and have children glue piece of gift wrap on the square making a collage.
Write out the phrase, “God, thank you for the gift of_______.” Encourage your child to fill in the blank with something they are thankful for. Some ideas are: family, home, friends, etc.
Discussion Questions: Ask your child to name one of their favorite gifts they have received. Remind your child that Jesus was the best gift that God could ever give.
 
If you are looking for more ideas on how to keep Christ in Christmas this holiday season, check out this link!

Thursday, December 6, 2012

God's Plan

 30 "But the angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary; you have found favor with God." 38 “I am the Lord’s servant,” Mary answered. May your word to me be fulfilled.”
Luke 1:30;38
 
         It was so exciting to have the school-agers join us for chapel this week! Due to a school delay we had the opportunity to have a special chapel session just for them! This week is the start of Advent and the timing couldn't have been more perfect! We had a great time singing and learning about Christ's birth as found in Luke 2. 
 
       Our story was desinged to be an interactive "Right/Left" game. We had the children stand in a circle in the back of the Chapel. Pieces of the nativity were wrapped in paper and given to various children around the circle. The children were instructed to pass the gifts around the circle according to the directions given throughout the story. 
 
 Here is a short example from what was read:
 
"Mary and Joseph walked all around Bethlehem asking if there was a place they could sleep for the night, but everyone they met said there was no room LEFT. Finally, one kind inn keeper offered to let them stay RIGHT in his stable."
       The children did a fantatic job listening and obeying directions! When the story ended whoever was left holding the presents got to open them.
        Together we discussed how God had a special purpose and plan for each person in the nativity story and how each of them listened and obeyed God.

 
 
 
 
          As the children came up to place their character in the nativity, they read a short sentence then talked about how each of the characters were obedient to God.
  • Mary was obedient by loving God.
  • Joseph was obedient by trusting God.
  • The shepherds were obedient by believing what the angels said was true.
  • The Wise Men were obedient by being faithful as they followed the star.
 
 
 
Our school-agers LOVE praise and worship time!
Here are the youtube links to the music videos of the songs we taught them.