<BACK

Welcoming the Baby Jesus

Teacher's Guide - this is the true meaning of Christmas!  Also the foundation of Christ's life on earth, and one of the sacrifices He made when He became man.  Imagine a God who can do anything, allowing himself to become a little baby who is completely dependant.  
This is just one possible lesson plan.  Visit the Christmas Section for further ideas to supplement this.

Introduction:

Most children know the story of baby Jesus.  Unfortunately, Christmas has taken on a different meaning for so many children (the presents, decorations, Santa Clause...).   I've said this before, but it's worth mentioning again.  When instructing young children, repetition is a positive thing.  Everything is so new at this age that it is helpful to repeat important messages multiple times.  This first lesson focuses on the miracle of Jesus birth.  The next lesson will focus on the shepherds and the angels. The third lesson on the Wise men; concluding with the nativity.

The message:  

Preschool thru grade 1: Baby Jesus came to earth.  Jesus became a child just like you.

Grades 2 and 3: Jesus came to earth as a baby.  Jesus came to save the world.

The message of God becoming Jesus is important.  He became a baby, and by doing so, lives life on earth just as we do. He has lived as a child, He knows what its like.  He didn't come to earth as a king, or somebody rich and famous, but was born in a manger.

Make sure you repeat the message many times during the lesson.  Send the Jesus Became a Child Just Like You Take Home Sheet (preschool thru grade 1) and the Welcoming Jesus Take Home Sheet (grades 2 and 3) home with the children to encourage parents to reiterate the message during the week.  It includes a poster at the bottom that the children can color and hang on their wall or refrigerator. 

Preview of the lesson:

Some people like to do craft time first and story time second and some like to switch it around.  I like the first option, myself.

Always consider offering a Mini Book,  Coloring Pages or you could look at the Christmas Printables for children who aren't interested in participating in the group activity (or if you get done the group activities very quickly and need something to fill in the spare time).  Everyone has a need for "alone time" once in awhile.  Also, sending home the mini book, coloring pages with the Take Home sheet provides parents with much needed help in reinforcing the lessons.  You can make a nice little booklet each week with the take home sheet on top -- I promise that most parents will appreciate the effort!