Welcome to our MBI Children and Family Ministry Newsletter! We seek to support Children and Family Ministry by providing free or inexpensive resources that inspire and educate faith in Jesus.
“There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens… a time to weep and a time to laugh, a time to mourn and a time to dance, a time to scatter stones and a time to gather them, a time to embrace and a time to refrain from embracing.”
Ecclesiastes 3:1, 4-5
Bible Lessons
The transition from summer to fall can be difficult for children, especially during this year as they are experiencing new ways of going to school and interacting with friends. It is important to remind our children that, although seasons change, Jesus will always remain the same (Hebrews 13:8). This short, two-minute Bible lesson is a starting point to help parents keep God as the source of their family’s peace as they discuss the Lord’s constant and comforting presence in their family. Access it here.
In a year that has been filled with many difficulties and unexpected transitions, many of us are experiencing the uncertainty that comes with the changing of seasons. In these times, it is critical to walk with confidence in the plans that the Lord has for us. It is, therefore, crucial that we find our confidence not in the changing seasons or circumstance, but in the words of God in Scripture. To read what the Bible says about who our God is in the midst of ever changing seasons, visit here.
Object Lessons for Fall
The start of fall brings with it the change of the seasons and the colors of trees. In much the same way, we also change when the Holy Spirit begins to work in our hearts. This simple and fun science experiment can help parents illustrate this spiritual change with their young children. All you need is some clear glasses, water, and a few different colors of food coloring. Access this experiment here.
Let the light of Christ shine forth on October 31st with this devotional and object lesson demonstrating how God’s light shines in and through His children. This devotion leads families to reflect on Scriptures such as Matthew 5:14-16 and 2 Corinthians 4:6 as they carve pumpkins with their children. You can access this devotional and instructions for the object lesson here.
A Taste of fall
Families can enjoy this beautiful season by having yummy sweet treats together. This apple pie recipe is very simple and also helps parents with little children prepare well by giving them some tips on cooking with their toddlers. Access this recipe here.
Cinnamon-Sugar Leaf Tortilla Chips
This child-friendly recipe is perfect for the fall season. Children will have fun making these cute leaf chips with their parents as they watch leaves of different shapes change colors around them. Parents only need three ingredients for this simple recipe. Access it here.
Arts and Crafts
This collection of fall themed crafts will help kids recognize God as Creator and thank Him for His blessings. Along with providing biblical application, these four crafts are simple to do and use easily accessible materials. Explore the crafts here.
Apple Stained Glass Windows
This resource gives step by step instructions to create these gorgeous apple crafts perfect to display in your window. This craft is good for children as young as the preschool years. These crafts can be done in the classroom or at home with minimal supplies. Find the instructions here.
Seasonal Depression
Seasonal Affective Disorder in Children and Adolescents
As we enter into the fall and winter months, it is crucial for us to be aware of how this transition negatively affects some of those around us. This article provides a thorough rundown of how to recognize and treat seasonal depression in children and adolescents.Access the article here as well as their info-graphic here.
Depression in Children and Teens
What exactly is depression and what can we do when we encounter it? This website created by a counseling center is a launchpad of resources you can use to understand and support youth who struggle with this common mental health issue. To access, click here.
