Theme:
Gratitude and Giving Thanks to God
Bible Text:
1 Thessalonians 5:18 –
“Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.”
Age Group:
5–10 years old
Time:
30–40 minutes
1. Opening & Welcome (5 minutes)
Prayer:
“Dear God, thank You for giving us so many blessings — our families, friends, food, and everything we have. Help us to always have thankful hearts. Amen.”
Song Suggestion:
“Give Thanks with a Grateful Heart”
“Thank You, Lord” (Simple kids’ version)
Activity Idea:
Have kids name one thing they’re thankful for as they arrive and write or draw it on a big “Thankful Wall” poster.
2. Bible Story (10 minutes)
Story: The Ten Lepers (Luke 17:11–19)
Story Summary:
Ten men who had leprosy asked Jesus to heal them.
Jesus healed all ten, but only one came back to say, “thank you.”
Jesus was happy that the man remembered to be thankful.
Key Point:
God loves when we say, “Thank You.”
We should always remember to thank Him for all He does!
3. Discussion Time (5 minutes)
Questions for Kids (with answers):
Who healed the ten lepers?
– Jesus did!How many lepers came back to say thank you?
– Only one.What does that teach us?
– We should always be thankful to God!What are some things you can thank God for today?
– Family, friends, food, home, health, love, etc.
4. Personal Craft: “My Thankfulness Tree”
Objective:
For each child to recognize that they have many blessings from God and learn to express them with gratitude.
Materials (prepared by the teacher):
Tree trunks cut out of brown construction paper (1 per child)
(They can be simple: a trunk with branches.)Colored paper leaves already cut out (6–10 leaves per child)
White paper or small cardstock (background to glue the tree on)
Glue sticks or tape
Markers or crayons
Message to Share During the Craft:
“Just as trees grow and fill with many leaves, our hearts fill with joy when we remember everything God has given us.
Each leaf is a blessing.
When we give thanks to God, our hearts grow stronger and happier.”
5. Memory Verse & Challenge (5 minutes)
Memory Verse:
“Give thanks in all circumstances.” — 1 Thessalonians 5:18
Weekly Challenge:
Every day this week, say one thing you’re thankful to God for.
You can make a “Thankful List” or tell your family what you thanked God for today.
6. Closing Prayer
“Dear Jesus, thank You for teaching us to have thankful hearts.
Help us remember to say ‘thank You’ for everything You give us — even the little things.
We love You! Amen.”
Teacher’s Preparation Note:
Prepare craft materials before class (cut leaves).
🧰 Supplies for Today’s Craft!
Colored paper leaves— [Amazon Link]
White cardstock (background) — [Amazon Link]
Glue sticks— [Amazon Link]
Markers— [Amazon Link]
Crayons— [Amazon Link]
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