It is important for children and everyone to know that Jesus is real and is alive and that all the stories we read about Him are true. Speak in simple terms so children can understand and allow them to ask questions related to the topic at hand. If a question is a good question but off-topic, do not dismiss it. Write it down and come back to it later. Always make sure children know you care about their concerns. Sincere interest in a child’s concerns gives even more credit to what you say. Here are some easy-to-follow tips:
- Give the big picture about Jesus’ death, burial, and resurrection. You can explain in an age-appropriate manner that it was God’s plan to show love to the world, including to the children you are teaching. Keeping it simple is helpful. “Jesus died for our sins and came back to life to give us hope and joy."
- Use visual aids such as videos or storybooks to help illustrate and narrate the story. Find illustrations children can relate to. Seeing or experiencing a story can help children understand and can better hold their attention.
- Break up the story into parts. Present one part at a time, allowing for questions so that children leave with the best understanding possible.
- Focus on the truth of Jesus’ message and not the suffering of Jesus. Until they are older and can process it correctly, some material may be too much for young children to handle.
- Make teaching interactive. Use crafts, or songs with motions, or allow children to play parts in a dramatic skit. Help make the account of Jesus’ life, death, burial, and resurrection meaningful for the children in their own lives. Help them to understand that He died for everyone, including you and them. Emphasize that it matters to their everyday life and that they can experience His love, forgiveness, and grace in a real relationship with Him.
- Lastly, celebrate big! Have a party with lots of joy and singing, reminding them that in Jesus, we all have victory! End the party with a prayer of gratitude!
