TABLE OF CONTENTS
Schedule . . . 3
VBS Tips & COVID-19 Safety Tips. . . 4
Day 1. . . 5
Day 2. . . 11
Day 3. . . 17
Day 4. . . 24
Day 5. . . 31
Sharing the Gospel with Kids. . . 37
The ABC’s. . . 38
How to Share Your Story. . . 39
Crystal Cantrell
Children’s Ministry Associate
crystalc@eastcooperbaptist.com
Nikki Alexander
Nursery Coordinator
nikkia@eastcooperbaptist.com
Steve Tuck
Children & Family Pastor
stevet@eastcooperbaptist.com
English Preston
Children’s Ministry Director
englishp@eastcooperbaptist.com
Sharon Basha
Nursery & Preschool Director
sharonb@eastcooperbaptist.com
Nick DeGroot
Children’s Ministry Assistant
WELCOME
LETTER
Theme Verse:
Now therefore, if you will indeed obey my voice and keep my covenant,
you shall be my treasured possession among all peoples.
Exodus 19:5
VBS
ON THE GO
Parents and Friends,
We are grateful to God for your participation in spreading the Gospel of Jesus in your
neighborhood this summer. God is going to do mighty things in our city - through you!
We are praying the Holy Spirit will fill your homes and neighborhoods with truths from
the Bible - and that children will learn beautiful new truths about God. He treasures
them! Our prayer is that they will experience God’s powerful, unchanging, lavish love -
and that the children at your VBS will see their need for Jesus so that they may come
to God by grace, through faith.
We are here for you! We’ve tried our best to give you every tool you need to feel
comfortable and confident leading your VBS. Please reach out to us if you have any
questions or need anything at all!
God bless you as you embark on this journey of Kingdom work. We treasure YOU!
In grace,
Pastor Steve, Ms. English and the Children’s Ministry Team
DAILY BREAKDOWN
Suggested Schedule for a 2-hour VBS At Home
5 Easy, Daily Steps!
This is only a suggested timeline. Make this Schedule your own! Maybe you need
to break it up. Maybe you need to have an hour before lunch and an hour after
lunch. We encourage you to make it work best for your very own VBS On The Go.
35 mins
Worship and Bible Adventure
Jungle Gym Outdoor Recreation Time
Vine Dining - Snacks
KidVid Cinema and Application
Imagination Station
Read these tested tips before you map out your VBS On The Go:
• Find a helper! Consider delegating responsibilities to other older youth or adult
helpers. Not only does this spread out the workload but gives someone else an
opportunity to use their gifting to serve.
• Recruit a different parent per day to bring the snack. (Or find a group of grandparents
willing to deliver snacks daily!)
• Prayerfully read each day’s Bible story passage and go over each day’s Bible point.
• Look over each activity beforehand. Gather any necessary supplies in advance.
• Be ready to move between activities swiftly so your campers can stay engaged.
• Remind campers that your time is for VBS - not a playdate around the house! Set
appropriate boundaries.
• Ensure a good internet connection to show the daily videos.
• Display posters each day - We have provided the Daily Bible Story Poster and Buddy
Poster with Daily Bible Point. We suggest displaying theTreasured logo poster and
the Theme Verse Poster (Exodus 19:5) all week.
• Visit www.eastcooperbaptist.com/vbs to find daily videos, music, and digital
resources. Preview videos in advance if possible.
COVID-19 Safety Reminders:
• Speak with parents in advance about mask requirements. Masks should be at least
optional. Honor parents’ request.
• Wash your hands with soap and water or use hand sanitizer, especially when arriving,
after recreation, and before and after snack.
• If a child has any symptoms of being sick they should not attend.
• Sneeze or cough into a tissue, or the inside of your elbow.
• Disinfect frequently used items and surfaces as much as possible.
• If items used will be shared these items should be cleaned between usage. (lysol
DAY 1
God Knows You
Pogo
Bible Story:
God identifies David as the future king. (1 Samuel 16:1-13)Bible Verse:
“O Lord, you have examined my heart and know everything about me.” (Psalm 139:1)
Consider This:
• Through the prophet Samuel, God warned his people of the hardships they’d endure at the hand of a king (1 Samuel 8:10-18). Yet their desire to be led by a human king—rather than by God—overtook Samuel’s candid cautions. So God gave them a king in Saul.
• King Saul’s initial humility soon transformed into hubris. He became rebellious and arrogant, leading God to choose a new leader for his people (1 Samuel 15:22-23).
• It’s unlikely that David’s family understood exactly the significance of Samuel’s anointing. For safety’s sake, Samuel wouldn’t have wanted to broadcast God’s designation of a new king while Saul still sat on the throne! • Samuel showed his humanity when he evaluated each of Jesse’s sons based on outward appearance. God
wasn’t interested in someone who looked like a king; God knew that David had the heart of a king!
• David ranked so low in his family that his father didn’t even invite him to the sacrifice with Samuel (1 Samuel 16:11). Instead, he tended the sheep—the job of a servant.
• Scholars estimate that David was about 10 to 15 years old when Samuel anointed him.
Why It Matters…
Day 1
Part 1:
Worship & Bible Adventure (35 min)
Part 2:
Imagination Station (20 min)
• What you’ll need: Online access for Day One videos (found at www.eastcooperbaptist.com/vbs), Treasure Quest Bible Book, Bible Adventure Activity Pages, Preschool Bible Story Coloring Pages, Pencils, and Crayons or Markers. • Worship Time! Play Theme Song - Priceless Treasure
• Watch Daily Bible Memory Buddy Video - Day One - Pogo
• Watch Daily Bible Adventure Video - Day One - God Identifies David as the Future King (1 Samuel 16:1-13)
• Distribute Bible Adventure Activity Page (Elementary) and Bible Coloring Page (Preschool). Walk older kids through the CODE NAME activity while preschoolers color their page.
• Say: Let’s read about the Bible story from Samuel’s point of view now!
• Read Samuel’s story beginning on page 5 of the TREASURE QUEST BIBLE BOOK.
• Say: I’m so thankful for God’s word that gives us true stories of how God is involved in our lives because He treasures us. All day we’ll spend time together having fun and learning how much God treasures us. For now, let’s say our theme verse together!
• Show Theme Verse Poster and say the theme verse together: Now therefore, if you will indeed obey my voice and
keep my covenant,you shall be my treasured possession among all peoples. Exodus 19:5
• Pray: Dear God, thank you for looking at our hearts. Please help us have clean hearts and help us to see others like you see them. We thank you for creating and treasuring us. Amen.
• Additional (Optional) Worship Songs: Wild About Us, All That I Am (Psalm 103:1)
• Today’s Sciencey-Fun Gizmo: Decoder Disk
• What you’ll need today: Online access for Day One videos (found at www.eastcooperbaptist.com/vbs), each child’s Decoder Disk, paper per person, pencil per person.
Day 1
Part 3:
Jungle Gym Games (25 min)
Option 1: LOB THE BLOB
Fill the buckets with water and distribute the sponge balls evenly among the buckets, submerging and soaking the sponge balls. Place half the buckets along one side of your play area and the other half at least 15 feet away from the first buckets.
1. Have kids form two equal lines so each person is facing a partner.Let partners exchange names and tell why they’re excited to be at Treasured VBS.
2. Then have partners turn back to back. Give one partner a soggy sponge ball.
3. Say: If you’re holding a ball, you’ll toss it backward over your head and call “Incoming!” Your partner will watch for the ball and try to catch it without turning around.
Then you’ll both take a step apart and the other partner will toss the ball backward overhead. Got it? Let’s play! 4. As they play, partners can run to a bucket to soak the sponge ball to keep it nice and soggy for a fun cool-down. 5. (Optional) Play music while kids play. Let everyone swap partners for each round. Turn off the music to mark the
end of the game. Play several rounds.
6. Finish by having kids simply face each other and have them toss their wet sponge to their partner. Once they do, have both kids take a step back each time so they gradually get further and further away from each other. (For extra wet fun, have them wet their sponge each time before tossing it). The winners are the last partners left who are able to toss and catch their sponge from the farthest distance.
Have anyone holding a sponge ball place it back in a bucket. Then have kids gather around you.
Ask: What made the game hard or easy for you?
Say: It’s tough listening for a voice you might not know well, especially
when you can’t see the person. Things looked a little clumsy and
awkward out there, but fun, too!
Ask: What about the game reminds you of what it’s like when you’re starting to get to know a new friend? Share an example first, such as how it can be hard to know what to do or say when you’re getting to know someone.
Say: Some of you might be feeling that today if you’re around a bunch of new people here at VBS, but you’ll get to know each other better through all the fun this week. You’ll get to know God better, too, and because
God knows you
(You are treasured!) and loves you, you alwaysSUPPLIES:
◆ Sponge balls (1 for every 2 people in a rotation) ◆ Buckets/bowls of water
Day 1
Option 2: CONNECTION COLLECTION
Form a triangle with three chairs. Space the chairs as far apart as possible.
Say: Let’s have some fun getting to know each other a little better. I’ll call out three choices for adventurous fun, and you’ll vote for your top pick in a fun and goofy way!
1. Call out the topics listed below. As you say each option, point to one of the chairs in the triangle. Before saying “Go!” you’ll also call out a wacky way to move to the chairs.
2. Then everyone will vote for their choice by moving to the chair that represents their vote. (Remember, the chairs are just markers. No one will sit in them).
3. After players cast their votes, gather everyone back in the center of the triangle for another round. 4. Call out these in rounds (add or change any as you like):
◆ Best pet: (Skip to the chair of choice.) • cat • dog • goldfish
◆ Best vacation spot: (Walk backward.) • beach • mountains • “staycation” (at home)
◆ Best candy flavor: (Run.) • sweet • sour • scorching hot cinnamon spice
◆ Best downtime activity: (Squat jump.) • video games • outdoor adventure • reading a book
◆ Most scared of: (Lunge step.) • spiders • snakes • gym teachers
◆ Prefer to hug: (Side step.) • family member • friend • not a hugger
◆ Favorite subject: (Hop.) • math • gym • lunch
After the final round, have everyone sit, and talk through the Wrap-Up Questions: Connection Collection to lead a quick discussion.
SUPPLIES:
◆ 3 chairs or other place markers, such as traffic cones.
Wrap-Up Questions:
Connection Collection
Ask: Call out some things you noticed and learned about our Crew friends because of the game.
What’s something else you think is important for our Crew to know about you as we start our week together? Share an example of your own first, such as if you like to sing or dance, have any food allergies, or are new in town— lead with subjects you’d like to know about the kids in your Crew.
Say: It’s so awesome to start to get to know you all! God knows you (You
Day 1
Part 4:
Vine Dining - Snacks (15 min)
Today’s Snack: Get-to-Know-You Goodies
Prep Steps:
Snack Time:
SUPPLIES:
◆ Veggie Straws (about 5 per person)
◆ Twizzlers Pull ’n’ Peel candy ropes (1 rope per Crew) ◆ Crackers of various shapes
and sizes (about 3 crackers per person)
◆ Puffed rice cereal (½ cup) ◆ Grapes (5 per person) ◆ Strawberries (1 per person) ◆ Mini marshmallows (5 per person)
◆ Disposable bowls ◆ Disposable spoons
◆ Paper plates (1 per person) ◆ Napkins (1 per person)
FOOD ALLERGIES:
◆ Anyone avoiding or allergic to gluten will need to skip using or eating the Twizzlers. ◆ Be sure to include rice-
based crackers in your assortment of crackers. ◆ Many brands of mini
marshmallows are fairly allergy-friendly, but be sure to check ingredient lists.
1. If you’re providing grapes and strawberries, remove the leafy strawberry tops and slice the berries top to bottom.
2. Provide the following ingredients, placed into disposable bowls: ◆ Twizzlers Pull ‘n’ Peel ropes ◆ Grapes
◆ Strawberries ◆ Assorted crackers ◆ Puffed rice cereal ◆ Veggie Straws ◆ Mini marshmallows. 3. Include a disposable spoon in each ingredient bowl.
Treasure Tip:
We’ve offered some ideas for snack foods that kids can use to create a food picture, but this is a very flexible snack list! You can build an ingredient list to suit your budget, food values, what’s easily available in your area, and any foodallergy modifications.1. Have everyone take a paper plate and a napkin.
2. Say: Let’s get to know each other better by making food pictures that tell about us—a favorite sport, a number that tells our age or how many people are in our family, or a favorite animal. Then we’ll guess what each person’s picture tells us about him or her. Use the
3. Say: Even if we couldn’t guess what some pictures meant, God knows exactly what each picture means because God knows you. (You are
treasured!) Psalm 139:1 tells us, “O Lord, you have examined my heart
Day 1
Part 5:
KidVid Cinema & Application (20 min)
MEET SAM
Sam is great at solving
mixed-up Rubik’s Cubes!
Sam knows he’s
no mystery to God,
because God knows us.
• You’ll need online access for Day One videos (found at www.eastcooperbaptist.com/vbs)
• Say: Each day to wrap up, we are going to watch a story about a real kid - just like you - who is treasured by God. We will learn about them and then talk a little about their stories.
• Play DAY ONE Segment of KidVid Cinema; Sam’s Story • Question/Application Time:
• Say: Sam knew a lot about Rubik’s cubes. It seems like he’s studied them and practiced on them a lot. • Ask: What’s something you know a lot about?
• Ask: How did you get to know about that topic or hobby so well?
• Say: The more time we spend doing something, the better we know it. Sam studied Rubik’s Cubes and knew them inside and out. God knows us inside and out. Because He treasures you so much, He wants you to spend time with Him and get to know Him.
• Say: Let me share a SUPPORTING VERSE with you that tells us how well God knows US.
• Psalm 139:1 says, “O Lord, you have examined my heart and know everything about me.” Wow! It really is true! GOD KNOWS YOU.
• Ask: What is one way you can spend time getting to know God?
• End with Prayer: Dear God, thank you that you have examined us and you know everything about us. Thank you for treasuring us! Amen.
DAY 2
God Hears You
Bible Story:
David escapes Saul and writes psalms to God. (1 Samuel 23:1-14; Psalm 86)Bible Verse:
“I love the Lord because he hears my voice and my prayer for mercy.” (Psalm 116:1)
Consider This:
• Saul, jealous of David’s popularity, kept David and his men on the run. But David repeatedly resisted opportunities to harm Saul, in spite of the danger he faced daily. Not only did David have to flee from Saul (his own king), but he also chose to fight the Philistines (his people’s enemy) at the same time!
• Abiathar the priest brought the ephod to allow David to speak with and listen to God. A chestpiece attached to the ephod contained the Urim and Thummim (Exodus 28:30), small metal or stone objects. Priests used these to ask God “yes” or “no” questions, to seek his guidance and will.
• David posed no small threat to King Saul, since David’s army numbered around 600 men!
• After David escaped Saul in Keilah, the Ziphites located David and planned to deliver him to Saul. During this time, David wrote Psalm 54, in which he cries out, “Listen to my prayer, O God. Pay attention to my plea.” • Scholars are unsure exactly how long David ran from Saul. However, some historians estimate it to be around
seven years! During that time, David had countless reasons to call out to God in desperation, triumph, sorrow, and loneliness.
• Since some psalms don’t list an author, it’s unclear how many David wrote. However, Bible scholars believe the shepherd-king wrote at least 73 (and possibly more) of the 150 songs in this book!
Why It Matters…
Kids can tell you exactly what it’s like to be ignored or unheard. They know what it feels like to talk to a busy parent or teacher who responds with a distracted “Mm-hmm.” They’ve been that hand, waving in the air, that didn’t get called on to share an answer. And even when someone is tuned in, kids may not have the words to express what they’re feeling. What a gift to discover that God hears every whispered worry or spoken celebration. The God who treasures us is eagerly awaiting conversation with us! Today help kids realize that not only does God hear our voices…but God also hears our hearts!
Day 2
Part 1:
Worship & Bible Adventure (35 min)
Part 2:
Imagination Station (20 min)
• What you’ll need: Online access for Day Two videos (found at www.eastcooperbaptist.com/vbs), Treasure Quest Bible Book, Bible Adventure Activity Pages, Preschool Bible Story Coloring Pages, Pencils, and Crayons or Markers. • Worship Time! Play Theme Song - Priceless Treasure
• Watch Daily Bible Memory Buddy Video - Day Two - Ruby
• Watch Daily Bible Adventure Video - Day Two - David escapes Saul and writes Psalms to God (1 Samuel 23 1-14;
Psalm 86)
• Distribute Bible Adventure Activity Page (Elementary) and Bible Coloring Page (Preschool). Walk older kids through the WATCHA PRAYIN? activity while preschoolers color their page.
• Say: Let’s read about the Bible story from David’s point of view now!
• Read David’s story beginning on page 13 of the TREASURE QUEST BIBLE BOOK.
• Say: Remember that the Bible gives us true stories of how God is involved in our lives because He created us and treasures us. Let’s have another day of fun and learn how much God treasures us. For now, let’s say our theme verse together!
• Show Theme Verse Poster and say the theme verse together: Now therefore, if you will indeed obey my voice and
keep my covenant,you shall be my treasured possession among all peoples. Exodus 19:5
• Pray: Dear God, we know that you hear us when we pray to you - even now! Thank you for listening to us and allowing us to come to you with all of our feelings and needs. Amen
• Additional (Optional) Worship Songs: God Is Listening, Sing Wherever I Go
• Today’s Sciencey-Fun Gizmo: Sing-a-mabobs
Day 2
Part 3:
Jungle Gym Games (25 min)
Option 1: JUNGLE JAM
Before kids arrive, set up the chairs, cones, and other place markers in a long path across the play area, with twists and turns between the markers. Space the markers 10 to 15 feet apart.
Welcome kids back to Jungle Gym Games.
Say: In this game, you’ll work with a friend or two and pretend to go on a trek through the jungle—with a few fun twists to the trek!
1. Have kids form pairs.
2. Have pairs line up single file at the beginning of the path.
3. One partner in each pair can use his or her blindfold or simply tightly close or cover eyes with hands. The other partner will use the pool noodle to guide their partner through the Jungle Jam.
4. The other partner will use cues below to signal the “blind” partner how to move along the path from marker to marker, using these signals with a pool noodle:
◆ A tap on the left arm means move or turn left.
◆ A tap on the right arm designates right turns.
◆ A tap on the back means back up.
◆ A tap on the belly means there’s a “jungle jam” on the trek, so pause. 6. Stagger start times so pairs don’t run into each other along the path.
7. When partners make it to the end, they can go back to the beginning and swap roles. 8. Play until everyone has had a turn in both roles.
9. Afterwards, have everyone sit and talk through the Wrap-Up Questions: Jungle Jam
10. For some fun competition, after a few rounds, do the Jungle Jam one more time by timing the partners to see who can get through it the fastest!
SUPPLIES:
◆ Mix of 12 to 15 objects for creating a long, winding path ◆ Pool noodle
Day 2
Option 2: MACAW CALL
Say: Today everything here at Treasured VBS is about how God hears you.
(You are treasured!) God might hear billions of prayers from all over
the world every day, and God can pick out every voice and every prayer. God hears you and me when we pray, even among all those millions of other voices. That’s amazing! Let’s play a game to see how well we can pick out voices in a crowd.
1. Invite a child to be “It.” Blindfold “It” or have him or her close eyes tightly. Then help It to the center of the play area. Have everyone else spread out around It.
2. Whisper the name of another player to It. It will repeatedly call out that name—like a calling macaw—and try to find that person by listening for the name in the crowd of other names.
3. Everyone else will call out their own names like noisy macaws. Players may move slowly around the play area, and It will try to find and tag the person he or she is calling.
4. If you have two or more players with the same first name, have one of them use his or her middle or last name for the game.
5. When It tags the correct person, that person becomes the new It. Play as many rounds as time allows. Sound the Search Signal, and gather everyone for a quick discussion.
Ask: What helped you hear one voice out of many voices? Why are you glad God can pick your voice out of millions of voices and hear your prayers? What are some things you’ve prayed about that are important to you?
Say: No matter what your prayers are about, they’re important to God. God hears you (You are treasured!) even when there are billions of other prayers coming his way!
SUPPLIES:
◆ Blindfold
Wrap-Up Questions:
Jungle Jam
Say: Sometimes life can be a bit like following the path in the game. We can’t always know what’s coming next or maybe how to get to a goal. We can get into “jungle jams” in our lives like we did sometimes in the game— times we feel confused, worried, or even afraid.
Ask: When you get in a jam in life, who do you ask for help, and why?
Say: It’s so good to have people in your life who listen and come to your side when you ask for help. You can also ask God for help. You can talk with God in prayer about anything, and God hears you. (You are treasured!) God’s answer or help might come in a surprising, unexpected way, but no matter what, God hears when you ask for his help.
Day 2
Part 4:
Vine Dining - Snacks (15 min)
Today’s Snack: Treasure Mix
Prep Step:
Snack Time:
SUPPLIES:
◆ Rice Chex cereal (½ cup per person)
◆ Skittles or dried fruit (2 Tbs per person)
◆ Popcorn
◆ Sandwich-size resealable plastic bags (1 per person) ◆ 1-cup measuring cups ◆ ½-cup measuring cups ◆ Tablespoon measuring spoons ◆ Napkins (1 per person)
FOOD ALLERGIES:
◆ You can swap the popcorn for gluten-free pretzels for another allergy-sensitive alternative.
◆ Use these ingredients or substitute with your own ideas, but it’s best to at least steer entirely clear of peanuts and other nuts. For the connection to the day’s Bible Point, be sure you have ingredients that have a plain flavor, a sweet flavor, and a salty flavor.
Measure scoops of ingredients into a resealable plastic bag for each person. Create bags of Treasure Mix that include:
◆ ½ cup of Rice Chex cereal
◆ 2 tablespoons of Skittles
◆ 1 cup of popcorn
1. Give each person a bag of the Treasure Mix snack.
2. Have each person eat a piece of square cereal. Invite them to call out words to describe the flavor.
3. Say: God listens to us when we talk with him. The plain flavor of this cereal reminds us God hears and cares about our prayers about simple, everyday things, such as hopes to make a sports team or wanting to make new friends.
4. Next, everyone can eat a piece of popcorn, then call out descriptions of the flavor.
5. Say: This salty snack reminds us of salty tears we may cry when we feel sad or afraid. Our prayers can seem bigger or more important when we’re facing something sad or scary.
6. Now everyone can take a piece of candy from the bag to taste and call out descriptions of the flavor.
7. Say: The sweet candy reminds us we can pray to talk with God when life is sweet—when things are good and our hearts feel like celebrating! Invite everyone to tell about something they’re looking forward to that they’d like to celebrate with God.
Day 2
Part 5:
KidVid Cinema & Application (20 min)
MEET JOHN
John can’t hear with his
ears, but he can hear-and
speak-with his hands!
John is learning that God
hears him, too-no matter what.
• You’ll need online access for Day Two videos (found at www.eastcooperbaptist.com/vbs) • Say: Today, you’ll get to see a video about a little boy named John.
• Ask: What’s your favorite sound?
• Say: John can’t hear sounds like we can. He can’t hear or talk like we do either. But God still hears John! Today we’re discovering that GOD HEARS YOU. I’m curious to see how God hears John. Let’s watch and find out!
• Play DAY TWO Segment of KidVid Cinema: John’s Story • Question/Application Time:
• Ask: What’s something you think John might talk to God about? What are some things that you like to talk about? • Say: All of your answers are great because no matter what you talk to God about, He hears you. Let me share a
SUPPORTING VERSE about how well God listens.
• Psalm 116:1 says, “I love the Lord because He hears my voice and my prayer for mercy.” That is so comforting to know that GOD HEARS US.
• End with Prayer: Dear God, thank you for promising to hear each of our voices when we cry out to you and when we talk to you. Thank you for treasuring us. Amen.
DAY 3
God Comforts You
Bible Story:
God reassures King Hezekiah. (2 Kings 18:5–19:34)Bible Verse:
“He comforts us in all our troubles so that we can comfort others.” (2 Corinthians 1:4)
Consider This:
• Hezekiah inherited a weakened realm, surrounded by powerful kingdoms such as Egypt and Assyria Nevertheless, he immersed himself in repairing Jerusalem’s fortifications, manufacturing weapons, and overseeing the creation of the Siloam Tunnel to safeguard their water supply.
• The gold and silver tribute Hezekiah paid to the Assyrian king likely weighed about 26 tons!
• Not only did the Assyrian field commander hurl a hurricane of insults at Hezekiah, but he did it in Hebrew so Judah’s onlookers could understand every offensive word. At the time, Aramaic was the official language, so it’s surprising that this officer had such a mastery of Hebrew.
• Hezekiah responded dramatically to the Assyrian lies, threats, and insults. He clothed himself in sackcloth, as a sign of mourning. He headed to the temple and laid the offensive words before God. Then he cried out to God, imploring him to turn his eyes and ears toward his vulnerable children.
• Apparently the Assyrians had destroyed the surrounding farmland, prohibiting God’s people from planting adequate crops. Yet in 2 Kings 19:29, God promises that his people will have enough food to last two seasons. What a comforting assurance!
Why It Matters…
Though they may not be familiar with his story yet, the kids at your VBS can relate to Hezekiah. Maybe they’ve experienced a bully’s threats or felt the sting when a schoolmate spreads lies. It’s likely that they know what it’s like when circumstances seem too big and overwhelming and it feels like the world has turned against them. God doesn’t promise to take away our problems…but he does promise to be with us, holding us through each one. Today, share your own stories of how you’ve found comfort in God’s presence. As Isaiah did for Hezekiah, be the voice of God’s reassuring comfort when life’s worries press in.
Day 3
Part 1:
Worship & Bible Adventure (35 min)
Part 2:
Imagination Station (20 min)
• What you’ll need: Online access for Day Three videos (found at www.eastcooperbaptist.com/vbs), Treasure Quest Bible Book, Bible Adventure Activity Pages, Preschool Bible Story Coloring Pages, Pencils, and Crayons or Markers. • Worship Time! Play Theme Song - Priceless Treasure
• Watch Daily Bible Memory Buddy Video - Day Three - Wilder
• Watch Daily Bible Adventure Video - Day Three - God Reassures King Hezekiah (2 Kings 18:5 - 19:34)
• Distribute Bible Adventure Activity Page (Elementary) and Bible Coloring Page (Preschool). Walk older kids through the KINGLY COMFORTS activity while preschoolers color their page.
• Say: Let’s read about the Bible story from Hezekiah’s point of view now!
• Read Hezekiah’s story beginning on page 21 of the TREASURE QUEST BIBLE BOOK.
• Say: What another great, true story from the Bible! Remember that God is involved in our lives because He created us and treasures us. Let’s have another day of fun and learn how much God treasures us. For now, let’s say our theme verse together!
• Show Theme Verse Poster and say the theme verse together: Now therefore, if you will indeed obey my voice and
keep my covenant,you shall be my treasured possession among all peoples. Exodus 19:5
• Pray: Dear God, thank you for fighting our battles, reminding us that you are in control, and for comforting us. AMEN. • Additional (Optional) Worship Songs: He Comforts Us, All That I Am (Psalm 103:1)
• Today’s Sciencey-Fun Gizmo: Alarm-inators
• What you’ll need today: Online access for Day Three videos (found at www.eastcooperbaptist.com/vbs), and each child’s Alarm-inator.
Day 3
Part 3:
Jungle Gym Games (25 min)
Option 1: FRUIT TOSS
SUPPLIES:
◆ 1 or 2 water bottles ◆ Inflated balloons
◆ Large trash bags for holding balloons
◆ A large bucket to refill water bottles
◆ Long rope, garden hose, or pool noodles for marking a boundary line
Before kids arrive, fill a spray bottle or two with water for the “squirrel monkey.” Inflate balloons and place them in a large trash bag to keep them from blowing away. Lay a rope or garden hose or pool noodles ended to end to mark a line along one end of the play area.
Enthusiastically welcome everyone back to Jungle Gym Games!
Say: In this game, you’ll work with a partner to keep some yummy fruit (hold up a balloon) from a squirrely, hungry squirrel monkey (have the game assistant(s) wave at everyone to identify the assistant as the “squirrel monkey”). This ornery creature is out to steal your lunch! You and your partner will work together in a fun and fruity way to move your fruity treasure to safety just across the jungle vine line!
1. Form partners with kids.
2. Have partners line up about 25 feet across from the boundary line. 3. Give a balloon to each pair.
4. Tell partners to link elbows, leaving each partner with one hand free.
5. Partners will use their free hands to quickly bop the balloon between them- much like in the game “Hot Potato.” As they do they will move toward the boundary line.
6. If a balloon falls, partners will pick it up and put it back in play as quickly as possible- so the ornery monkey doesn’t steal the fruit!
7. While partners bop and move, the game assistant(s) can spray them to try to get them to drop their “fruit.” “Squirrel monkeys” can also try to grab any balloons on the ground before pairs can get to them. If the monkey does, the partners have to start over.
8. Once partners make it across the boundary line, they are to run back to the starting line. The first pair back wins Repeat several rounds. Consider changing partners each time if you have a large variety of ages.
Optional:
• Play the game without a “squirrel monkey” and just make it a relay to get the “fruit” or balloon back and forth to the line and back.
Day 3
Wrap-Up Questions:
Fruit Toss
Ask: How did it feel to be linked to someone in this game?
If you had to be linked to one other person for the next week, who would you pick? Why that person?
God is always with us. Why do you think God wants to be linked to us? Why might you want to be inked to God?
Say: You might have been more successful at this game on your own. Maybe you felt like being linked to someone was harder- but it also gave you a partner to support you through the challenge. Having God linked to you is always a good thing because God comforts you. You are treasured by Him! God is the best partner to have through any of life’s challenges.
Option 2: TREASURE TROVE SHUFFLE
SUPPLIES:
◆ A permanent marker ◆ 4 poster boards ◆ Blindfold
Before kids arrive, use a permanent marker to number each poster board, 1 through 4. Set one poster board in each corner of a large (roughly 30-40 ft square) play area.
Say: Looking for treasure can be difficult as it is often hard to find. Sometimes it takes a lot of guesswork. This game takes a lot of guessing! Let’s play this game by trying to avoid guessing which of the four corners the “treasure thief” calls out to rob you from finding the treasure! The treasure is not to get caught by the “treasure thief.
1. Choose one player or game assistant (the “Treasure Thief”) and blindfold them and put them in the center of the square.
2. When the “treasure thief” counts to ten, have everyone try to avoid a base (numbered poster board) that they think the “treasure thief” will choose.
3. At “ten” the “treasure thief” will call out either number 1, 2, 3 or 4.
Day 3
Wrap-Up Questions:
Treasure Trove Shuffle
Ask: How did it feel when the “treasure thief” caught you and you were out of the game? What are some things that can rob us of being joyful?
Does God want to comfort us when we face times of trouble or discouragement? YES! Where can we find God’s promise that He will comfort us during difficult times?
Day 3
Part 4:
Vine Dining - Snacks (15 min)
Today’s Snack: Comfort Fries
Prep Step:
Snack Time:
SUPPLIES:
◆ Frozen, thick-cut steak fries (roughly 10 per person) ◆ Ketchup
◆ Small paper plates (1 per person)
◆ Napkins (1 per person)
FOOD ALLERGIES:
◆ Plain and unseasoned fries may be the best way to avoid potential foodallergy complications.Be sure to look over ingredient lists.
1. Give everyone a plate of fries, ketchup, and a napkin.
2. Story: Tell about a good memory you have of eating fries with family or friends. Who was there? What were you doing? Why is it a special memory?
3. Everyone can eat while they share—the flavor of the fries can actually prompt memory!
4. Say: Fries are sometimes called “comfort food.” Comfort foods are filling foods that just make us feel good, such as a food a parent or grandparent always makes to help you feel better when you’re sick. 5. Ask: What are some other comfort foods for you?
6. Say: We all need comfort in our lives. I’m glad that God comforts you.
(You are treasured!) Second Corinthians 1:4 tells us, “He comforts us in
Day 3
Part 5:
KidVid Cinema & Application (20 min)
MEET KIDS
FROM COVID-19
During the COVID-19 crisis,
these cool kids found ways
to bring comfort and care
to their neighbors.
• You’ll need online access for Day Three videos (found at www.eastcooperbaptist.com/vbs)
• Say: Before we get started with our video, I want to see your hugging skills! Give a big hug to someone nearby. Or if you don’t want to hug, try a first bump or high-five! Hugs can be comforting...and that reminds me that GOD COMFORTS YOU. Let’s see some real life examples of being comforted.
• Play DAY THREE Segment of KidVid Cinema: COVID-19 Stories • Question/Application Time:
• Say: Isn’t it amazing how many different ways kids found to comfort others during the COVID-19 pandemic? • Ask: Do you want to share a story about how you comforted someone else during the pandemic?
• Ask: How did someone else comfort you?
• I’m so glad we have friends and family members to comfort us. Sometimes we feel sad or discouraged, but we’ve learned that GOD COMFORTS US. And because of that, we can comfort others!
• Say: Let me read a SUPPORTING VERSE for us to learn more.
• 2 Corinthians 1:14 says, “He comforts us in all our affliction, so that we may be able to comfort those who are in any affliction, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God.”
• Say: God comforts us and because of that, we can comfort others with the same comfort He gives us.
• End with Prayer: Dear God, thank you for your comfort. I pray for everyone here who is hurting, that they’d feel your comfort. And I pray that we can all be a way others experience your love, too. AMEN.
DAY 4
God Forgives You
Bible Story:
Jesus reinstates Peter. (John 18:1–21:19)Bible Verse:
“But you are a God of forgiveness, gracious and merciful, slow to become angry, and rich in unfailing love.” (Nehemiah 9:17)
Consider This:
• Peter, whose name means “stone” or “rock,” had trouble displaying a firm faith. When Jesus first called him, Peter doubted Jesus’ wisdom (Luke 5:1-10). During a storm, he walked on stormy seas to be near Jesus…yet Jesus asked him, “Why did you doubt me?” (Matthew 14:27-31)
• Peter first denied Jesus when questioned by a seemingly powerless slave girl (John 18:15-18). Historians note that slave girls practically held the least amount of importance or influence in that time.
• Warming himself at a charcoal fire, Peter is questioned two more times and denies knowing Jesus each time. It’s interesting that John 21 records Jesus and Peter’s reunion after the resurrection at a charcoal fire as well! • The first two times Jesus asks Peter “Do you love me?” he uses the word agapeo for “love,” which means a sacrificial
love. In Peter’s response, he consistently uses the word phileo for “love,” which refers to an affectionate, friendly love. Scholars debate the reason the two different forms of “love” are used. Perhaps Peter is acknowledging his shortcomings compared to the overwhelming love displayed by Jesus.
Why It Matters…
Most children equate forgiveness with simply saying a hurried “I’m sorry” after they’ve wronged a friend or family member. Yet true forgiveness goes beyond mere words. It includes undeserved mercy, healing, renewal, and grace. Forgiveness means restoring brokenness and starting fresh. Kids may have heard about Jesus’ death on a cross, but it’s difficult to understand that God required such sacrifice for complete atonement. Guide kids as they discover the life-changing truth that Jesus’ death provided a way for them to be with God forever. Use today’s lesson to show kids that God loves them enough to completely wipe away their wrongdoings, restoring a priceless friendship with our loving Father.
Day 4
Part 1:
Worship & Bible Adventure (35 min)
Part 2:
Imagination Station (20 min)
• What you’ll need: Online access for Day Four videos (found at www.eastcooperbaptist.com/vbs), Day 4 heart cutouts and tape (provided), Treasure Quest Bible Book, Bible Adventure Activity Pages, Preschool Bible Story Coloring Pages, Pencils, and Crayons or Markers.
• Please Note: Today’s lesson is focused on forgiveness. The Gospel of salvation and forgiveness through Jesus’ death on the cross is the most important story for kids to hear at your VBS! During the video, there will be a time to reflect and pray. Encourage children to come to you later if they would like to pray with you or another leader. We have included the ABC’s of Sharing the Gospel as well as How to Share Your Own Story at the end of this guide.
• Worship Time! Play Theme Song - Priceless Treasure • Watch Daily Bible Memory Buddy Video - Day Four - Grace
• Watch Daily Bible Adventure Video - Day Four - Jesus Reinstates Peter (John 18:1 - 21:19)
• Distribute Bible Adventure Activity Page (Elementary) and Bible Coloring Page (Preschool). Walk older kids through the FRIEND TO THE END activity while preschoolers color their page.
• Say: Let’s read about the Bible story from Peter’s point of view now!
• Read Peter’s story beginning on page 29 of the TREASURE QUEST BIBLE BOOK.
• Say: What another great, true story from the Bible! I hope each of you will remember today and everyday that Jesus offers us forgiveness when we mess up. We all mess up and that is why He came to die on the cross - so that we can run to Him, confess to Him, and enjoy a relationship with Him! Through Jesus, God made a way for us to be with Him forever - because He treasures us. Let’s have another day of fun and learn how much God treasures us. For now, let’s say our theme verse again!
• Show Theme Verse Poster and say the theme verse together: Now therefore, if you will indeed obey my voice and
keep my covenant,you shall be my treasured possession among all peoples. Exodus 19:5
• Pray: Dear God, thank you for loving us so much that you sent Jesus to die for us and take the punishment for our sins. Please help us understand your forgiveness so that we can forgive others with your love. Amen.
• Additional (Optional) Worship Songs: You Say, Take My Life and Let It Be
• Today’s Sciencey-Fun Gizmo: Twirlygigs
• What you’ll need today: Online access for Day Four videos (found at www.eastcooperbaptist.com/vbs), and each child’s Twirlygig.
• Watch Day Four Imagination Station Video and follow along for fun!
Front
Day 4
Part 3:
Jungle Gym Games (25 min)
Option 1: CROWS AND CRANES
Welcome everyone back to Jungle Gym Games!
Before kids arrive, use ropes or garden hoses to create team lines and use a pool noodle to mark the center line between the team lines.
Say: In this game you will have to listen very carefully to the game leader as he calls out either “crows” or “cranes.” If your team gets called you’d better run so you don’t get caught by the other team!
1. To play, divide kids into two groups- “crows and cranes”- and invite them to the center line to face each other. 2. Beforehand, decide which group is heads (top of frisbee) and tails (bottom of frisbee) and let the kids know. 3. The game leader will stand on one end of the center line and will flip the frisbee into the air. Each time the
frisbee is flipped and lands, will indicate which team (“crows or cranes”) will be the runners or the taggers. 4. Whichever team- the “crows or cranes”- get called, they are to run away from the other team and try to retreat to
their team line about 15-20 feet behind them in order to be safe.
5. Any “crow” or “crane” that gets back behind their team line without being tagged is safe and can continue playing. Play until only one player is left.
6. Play several rounds.
Optional: Play without having anyone get out. Have each team keep count how many “crows or cranes” get caught each round. After several rounds, announce the overall score and the team with the least amount of “crows or cranes” getting caught wins!
SUPPLIES:
◆ Ropes or garden hose ◆ A pool noodle
◆ Frisbee
Wrap-Up Questions:
Crows and Cranes
Ask: Did you play until everyone had been finally tagged?
As it relates to our sin problem, who does the Bible say has been “tagged” by sin? EVERYONE! How does someone who has been “tagged” by sin find forgiveness?
CROWS TEAM LINE
Day 4
Option 2: PIRANHA RIVER RUN
Beforehand, lay out the ropes or garden hoses to be parallel with each other and place them about one foot apart to start the game and turn on the water sprinkler. The water sprinkler is just for wet fun!
Say: Your goal is to avoid landing in an infested river of kid-eating piranhas! Each time you attempt to jump over the river and land on the other side, you are safe! Avoid landing in the center between the boundaries or you just might become a piranha snack!
1. Line up all children about 20 feet from the parallel ropes- the “river”. 2. On go, have each kid jump, one at a time, over the “river” to try to clear it.
3. The ones who jump are to then start lining up on the other side so that they will be able to jump again to try to clear the ropes from the other side of the “river.”
4. After each jump, move the ropes or “banks” of the “river” further apart making it increasingly more difficult to jump over.
5. Anyone who gets caught landing in the “river” or between the ropes is out for that round. 6. Play until there are only one or a few players left.
7. Play several rounds..
Please Note: In this game, stress the importance of being careful as they jump - only one person jumps at a time per the leader’s instruction. A sprinkler and wet grass can also pose a hazard if they are not careful.
SUPPLIES:
Day 4
Wrap-Up Questions:
Piranha River Run
Say: Sin is just like that river...It is impossible to overcome unless we are helped across. Jesus’ perfect life and His willingness to be punished in our place and die on the cross and then rise from the grave, makes it possible for us to have forgiveness of sin and make it safely home to heaven! Jesus built a bridge for us to become a part of God’s family and live with Him forever! That’s why it is such a big deal that God forgives you. You are treasured!
Ask: What is the hardest part of playing this game?
Spiritually, what could you say the two sides of the river represent? God and Man What would the river in between represent? Our sin- separation from God
Day 4
Part 4:
Vine Dining - Snacks (15 min)
Today’s Snack: In a Jam
Prep Step:
Snack Time:
SUPPLIES:
◆ 6-inch tortillas (1 per person) ◆ Spreadable Butter
◆ Fruit Preserves and any other spreadable toppings you’d like to use
◆ Disposable butter knives (1 per person)
◆ Napkins or hand wipes (1 per pesron)
◆ Small paper plates (1 per person)
◆ Medium bowls for toppings
FOOD ALLERGIES:
◆ If you have kids who need agluten-free option, purchase corn tortillas to offer in place of flour tortillas. Corn tortillas tend to dry out more quickly, so purchase and serve corn tortillas as fresh as possible for the best results. Place each serving of corn tortillas in separate resealable plastic bags for each person who needs that option. You can write each person’s name and Crew number on the outside of the bag with a permanent marker. ◆ You can find dairy-free and
soy-free butter options in many grocery stores to accommodate more common food allergies. The Earth Balance brand offers a variety of options.
1. Allow each person to take a plate, napkin, packet of butter, packet of fruit preserves, tortilla, and knife.
2. Spread butter onto the tortilla.
3. Say: Today we’re learning that we all do or say wrong things—it’s called sin, and it’s part of what makes all of us human. Use your knife or finger to write the word “sin” in the butter.
4. Pause and let everyone draw or write.
5. Say: We all sin. But Nehemiah 9:17 says, “But you are a God of forgiveness, gracious and merciful, slow to become angry, and rich in unfailing love.” That means God forgives you. God’s sweet forgiveness covers our sins.
6. Spread fruit preserves over the butter, covering the words. Then roll up the tortillas and eat! Anyone who’d like another tortilla can make and eat one more.
TREASURE TIP: Instead of fruit preserves, you could offer a blend of cinnamon and sugar for Crew members to sprinkle over the butter on a tortilla.
Day 4
Part 5:
KidVid Cinema & Application (20 min)
MEET
PHILLIP & TIMOTHY
Timothy and Phillip are
brothers who learned
about forgiveness when
Timothy broke one of
Phillip’s new toys.
• You’ll need online access for Day Four videos (found at www.eastcooperbaptist.com/vbs)
• Say: Today we’ll meet two brothers, Phillip and Timothy. Like most siblings, sometimes Phillip and Timothy have fun together...and sometimes they don’t get along. We’re going to hear about one time they got really mad at each other. • Play DAY FOUR Segment of KidVid Cinema: Timothy and Phillip’s Story
• Question/Application Time:
• Say: Wow! It’s a good thing Phillip forgave Timothy! By the end of the video, they were back to playing together like best friends!
• Ask: Tell about a time you got mad at a sibling or friend. How does it make you feel when you get angry at someone? • Say: Getting angry or holding a grudge makes us feel heavy and burdened. It can ruin our relationships with others!
You know, your relationship with God was ruined by by sin. But through Jesus, GOD FORGIVES YOU. • Ask: How do you feel when you forgive someone or someone forgives you?
• Say: Forgiveness gives us peace and helps our relationships get better. Just as Phillip forgave Timothy, GOD FORGIVES YOU and makes your relationship with Him right again.
• Say: Let me read a SUPPORTING VERSE about God’s forgiveness.
• Nehemiah 9:17b says, “But you are a God ready to forgive, gracious and merciful, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love, and did not forsake them.”
• Say: God is abounding in steadfast love. That means His love for you is OVERFLOWING and NEVER ENDING. That’s amazing!
• End with Prayer: Dear God, thank you for your forgiveness. Thank you that no matter what we do wrong, you give us a new life because you love us so much. I pray that every person here will know how big your forgiveness is through Jesus. AMEN.
DAY 5
God Chooses You
Bible Story:
God chooses Esther to save her people. (Esther 2–8)Bible Verse:
“I have called you by name; you are mine.” (Isaiah 43:1)
Consider This:
• During his reign, King Xerxes invaded Greece, using one of the largest armies in ancient history, as well as a sizable navy. Unfortunately, the invasion ultimately failed.
• Nebuchadnezzar captured Mordecai’s ancestors, taking them from Jerusalem into Babylon. In Daniel, you can read about a few other Bible heroes captured at the same time!
• Although the name of God is never mentioned openly in the book of Esther, it’s clear that Mordecai believed in God’s sovereign plan for placing Esther in the role of queen so she could save God’s people.
• Haman offered an enormous sum of money to the men who would annihilate the Jews. The sum of 10,000 talents of silver was nearly two-thirds of the annual income of the entire kingdom. Scholars assume this money would have come from the plunder taken from the slain Jews.
• King Xerxes gave Mordecai a distinctive honor when he allowed Mordecai to wear a robe the king had worn. In ancient times, such an act signified a sharing of the king’s power, status, and honor.
• The book of Esther ends with a festival called Purim. Today, Jews still celebrate Purim, usually in March. Leaders read the book of Esther in the synagogue. Congregants cheer when they hear Mordecai’s name and hiss when they hear Haman’s name.
Why It Matters…
Being chosen feels special, doesn’t it? But it’s likely that Esther felt unprepared for the task for which God chose her. As much as kids love being selected for something special, they may feel a bit like Esther when they’re called on to befriend a newcomer at school, stand up to a bully, or share their faith. Kids may wonder if God really knows what he’s doing…and if they really can do such bold feats. Yet God didn’t only choose to love us—he chooses each of us to do his amazing work! Use today’s activities to encourage kids that they’ve been handpicked by God to be an integral, important part of his kingdom work!
Day 5
Part 1:
Worship & Bible Adventure (35 min)
Part 2:
Imagination Station (20 min)
• What you’ll need: Online access for Day Five videos (found at www.eastcooperbaptist.com/vbs), Treasure Quest Bible Book, Bible Adventure Activity Pages, Preschool Bible Story Coloring Pages, Pencils, and Crayons or Markers.
• Worship Time! Play Theme Song - Priceless Treasure
• Watch Daily Bible Memory Buddy Video - Day Five - Raymond
• Watch Daily Bible Adventure Video - Day Five - God chooses Esther to save her people (Esther 2-8)
• Distribute Bible Adventure Activity Page (Elementary) and Bible Coloring Page (Preschool). Walk older kids through the CHOOSE-A-PALOOZA activity while preschoolers color their page.
• Say: Let’s read about the Bible story from Esther’s point of view now!
• Read Esther’s story beginning on page 37 of the TREASURE QUEST BIBLE BOOK.
• Say: Wow. That was our last incredible story from the Bible. Have you learned this week that God treasures you? I hope so because His words are true! Let’s have our last day of fun at our VBS! For now, let’s say our theme verse together! • Show Theme Verse Poster and say the theme verse together: Now therefore, if you will indeed obey my voice and
keep my covenant,you shall be my treasured possession among all peoples. Exodus 19:5
• Pray: Dear God, thank you so much for bringing us together this week to learn more about you and enjoy time together as friends. Thank you for choosing us, loving us, and preparing big things for us to do for you. Amen.
• Additional (Optional) Worship Songs: Wild About Us, Sing Wherever I Go
• Today’s Sciencey-Fun Gizmo: Rolling Raymond
• What you’ll need today: Online access for Day Five videos (found at www.eastcooperbaptist.com/vbs), markers, and each child’s Rolling Raymond and Camouflage Critters Cards.
• Watch Day Five Imagination Station Video and follow along for fun!
Part 3:
Jungle Gym Games (25 min)
Option 1: DIAMOND, GOLD, PEARL
Before kids arrive, make a hand signal sign on poster board that looks like the one shown. Put it in a place that all kids can see it.
Welcome everyone back for the last day at Jungle Gym Games!
Say: Who has played Rock, Paper, Scissors before? (Pause for a show of hands) Well, this gae is a lot like it but with a fun treasure twist!
1. First, show everyone the following hand signals and values:
◆ Gold beats pearl—wave and wiggle fingers to symbolize sparkling “gold.” ◆ Pearl beats diamond—hold up both hands to form a circular “pearl.” ◆ Diamond beats gold—make a fist to symbolize a rocky “diamond.”
2. Call out the three choices a few times so everyone can practice the hand signals. Use the hand signal sign to remind kids of the three treasures and values.
3. Have kids find a partner and play just like Rock, Paper, Scissors. To play, have the partners stand back to back and use a game assistant to count to “ On “three,” partners are to turn and face each other while revealing the treasure motion they chose to reveal- Gold, Pearl or Diamond.
4. Have partners play three rounds, and the person who wins two out of three rounds can move on to a new opponent. The person who loses will sit down. Sometimes partners will tie by revealing the same treasure- Gold, Pearl or Diamond. Play an extra round or two to decide a winner.
5. Kids who continue to win will have a new partner each time. Play until there’s a final player left.
6. Have everyone rejoin the game once a winner has been declared and play several rounds.
Day 5
Option 2: JUNGLE SWAMP KICKBALL
Before kids arrive, set up the kickball play area spaced well apart. Place a wading pool or shallow containers to mark the corner of each square kickball play area-these are the “bases.” Fill each pool or shallow container with a few inches of water.
Say: Get ready to splash a lot in this fun game of soggy Jungle Swamp Kickball! This game is played just like regular kickball except we are using bases that are filled with water!
1. Form two teams.
2. Choose one team to be out in the field and the other to be up to kick the ball. Make sure those in the field are assigned either a base or fielding position.
3. Have a game assistant be the pitcher for both teams.
4. Have the team that is up to kick to line up behind home base. 5. The pitcher will roll the ball toward the first kicker.
6. After kicking the ball, the kicker runs counterclockwise to splash in as many bases as possible before someone tags him or her out with the ball. 7. When a kicker it tagged or is safe at a base, the next kicker will go. 8. When someone gets to home base without being tagged, that team
gets a point.
9. Have teams switch places when one team gets three outs.
Optional: Use a large plastic bat and a large vinyl playball or playground
SUPPLIES:
◆ 4 wading pools or shallow containers
◆ 1 large, rubber, playground ball
Day 5
Wrap-Up Questions:
Diamond, Gold, Pearl
Say: Every person is priceless because God purposely made each person to be exactly who they are. We’re all precious and rare. And like you might choose a diamond, a piece of gold, or pearl because of its value, God chooses you and the greatest treasure is knowing Him.
Ask: Each thing was given a value so that one beat another. Do you think the values were right in the game, and why?
Say: Stuff like gold, diamonds and other treasure are worth a lot. But I wonder…
What are people worth? Why might a person be viewed as more valuable than another?
Wrap-Up Questions:
Jungle Swamp Kickball
Ask: When did you feel like you had a part in the game that you knew you could do well?
When did you worry that you couldn’t do your part in the game?
Part 4:
Vine Dining - Snacks (15 min)
Today’s Snack: Gummy Gems
Snack Time:
SUPPLIES:
◆ Individual packages of mixed-flavor fruit snacks (2 per person)
◆ Napkins (1 per person)
FOOD ALLERGIES:
◆ The Annie’s brand of fruit snacks offers some allergy- friendly varieties and can be found in most grocery stores.
1. Have everyone take a napkin and a package of fruit snacks.
2. Say: Open your fruit snacks and try a few different colors and flavors. Pick your favorite, and we’ll all tell about our favorite and why we chose it.
3. Let everyone pick a favorite and give a thumbs-up when they’ve decided.
4. Take turns telling about favorite fruit snacks and what makes it a favorite: flavor, color, shape, and anything else. 5. Say: God chooses you! God doesn’t have to choose just one favorite—God loves every single person. God loves
what makes us alike and what makes us different. Isaiah 43:1 tells us that God says, “I have called you by name; you are mine.” God knows you, chooses you, and loves you!
Part 5:
KidVid Cinema & Application (20 min)
MEET
GENEVIEVE
Genevieve is an incredible
swimmer who works hard
to be chosen for the team.
She knows God chooses
her no matter what!
• You’ll need online access for Day Five videos (found at www.eastcooperbaptist.com/vbs)
• Say: Can you believe this is our last KidVid Story? I’ve had so much fun seeing these stories and learning how we can apply some of the lessons they learned to our own lives. We have one more special friend to meet today.
• Play DAY FIVE Segment of KidVid Cinema: Genevieve’s Story • Question/Application Time:
• Say: Wow! Genevieve has to work really hard and hope to be chosen for the Olympics. • Ask: What’s something you’d like to be chosen to do?
• Say: Let me read a SUPPORTING VERSE that shows us how God created you, treasures you, and how GOD CHOOSES YOU. Isaiah 43:1 says, “But now says the LORD, he who created you, O Jacob, he who formed you, O Israel: “Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by name, you are mine.”
• Say: Wow. It’s amazing to think that God chooses us to BE HIS OWN. I want each of you to remember that as we end our week together. God treasures you, God sent Jesus to die for you, and when you trust in Him, GOD CHOOSES YOU to do big things for Him.
• End with Prayer: Dear God, thank you for sharing all these treasured people with me this week. I thank you for the friends we’ve made and the time we’ve had together to learn how much you treasure us. AMEN.
Day 5 Video
SHARING THE GOSPEL WITH KIDS
1. God Rules
2. We Sinned
3. God Provided
4. Jesus Gives
5. We Respond
The Bible tells us God created everything, including you and me, and he is in charge of everything. (Gensis 1:1; Revelation 4:11; Colossians 1:16-17)
Since the time of Adam and Eve, everyone has chosen to disobey God. (Roman 3:23) The Bible calls this sin. Because God is holy, God cannot be around sin. Sin separates us from God and deserves God’s punishment of death. (Romans 6:23)
God sent his Son Jesus, the perfect solution to our sin problem, to rescue us from the punishment we deserve. It’s something, we as sinners, could never earn on our own. Jesus alone saves us. (John 3:16; Ephesians 2:8-9)
Jesus lived a perfect life, died on the cross for our sins, and rose again. Because Jesus gave up His life for us, we can be welcomed into God’s family for eternity. This is the best gift ever! (Romans 5:8; 2 Corinthians 5:21; 1 Peter 3:18)
We can respond to Jesus. The ABC’s of Becoming a Christian is a simple tool that helps us remember how to respond when promoted by the Holy Spirit to receive the gift that Jesus offers.
PRAYER
THE ABC
Admit
Admit to God that you are a sinner. The first people God created chose to sin and disobey
God. Ever since then, all people have chosen to sin and disobey. (Romans 3:23) Tell God you
messed up and you are sorry for doing your own thing and turning away from Him through
your thoughts, words, and actions. Repent, turn away from your sin. (Acts 3:19; 1 John 1:9) Repent
doesn’t mean turning from doing bad things to doing good things. It means turning from sin
and even from your own good works, and turning to Jesus, trusting only in Him to save you.
Believe
Believe that Jesus is God’s Son and accept God’s gift of forgiveness from sin. You must believe
that only Jesus can save you, and you cannot save yourself from your sin problem-not even by
praying to God, going to church, or reading your Bible. Your faith or your trust is only in Jesus
and what He did for you through His life, death, and resurrection. (Acts 16:31; Acts 4:12; John 14:6;
Ephesians 2:8-9)
Confess
Confess your faith in Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord. Tell God and tell others what you believe.
If Jesus is your savior, you are trusting only in Him to save you. Jesus is also Lord, which
means He is in charge of your life. You can start following Him and doing what He says in
the Bible. You are born again into a new life and can look forward to being with God forever.
(Romans 10:9-10, 13)
HOW TO SHARE
YOUR STORY
Tell your story and express to them your love for Christ and allow God to use you in a great way to be a powerful witness for the Lord! Pray and practice before sharing your story and trust God to use you to be His vehicle to communicate His love to the children in your care. It can be challenging to share and communicate the need to know Jesus as Savior and Lord, whether it is with children or adults, however, God will empower you for this work-Acts 1:8-”But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will will be My witnesses in Jerusalem, in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.”
Share your story and God will do His work in transforming lives. Pray and then look for God to answer your prayers in seeing many children come to Christ this summer at VBS On The Go! Please report any spiritual decisions that are made by any children to Crystal Cantrell in our Children’s Ministry office at: crystalc@eastcooperbaptist.com, so we can follow-up with discipleship materials.
