14 Early Childhood Leader Guide

You need: Poster Fun, pencil or pen, green crayon or marker, and Ark of the Covenant Sticker

Parents: Print your child’s first and last name on the front. Look at the picture on the front with your child. SAY: Look at this picture! At Mighty Fortress, you will learn all kinds of things about fortresses and castles. What do you see in the picture? Let your child point out things that are familiar to him or her.

Turn over the poster to the back page. Have your child repeat the Lesson 1 Bible Memory Verse after you. Point to the Lesson 1 trumpet outline. SAY: A trumpet makes a bright and cheerful sound. Trumpets are often blown to celebrate a victory. God’s Word tells us that every

Poster Fun for Parents and Kids

Lesson 1Mighty Fortress Leader Devotion

Bible Story: God’s Might Tumbles Jericho’s Walls Joshua 6:1–20

Bible Memory Verse: “Thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.” 1 Corinthians 15:57

Read Joshua 6:1–20

Think on these things:The people of Jericho trusted in the strength of their walls. God’s might tumbled those walls without a battering ram, catapult, or any human action beyond the marching, trumpets blowing, and finally, shouting that God commanded. God showed His people they could and should trust Him to keep His promises.

Joshua 6:1–2 God’s people had left the desert and miraculously crossed the Jordan to enter the Promised Land. When the people of Jericho saw the people of Israel, they took refuge in their city. They trusted in their walls. They had no idea they were up against a true Mighty Fortress.

Joshua 6:3–14 God’s plan for victory over Jericho defied military strategy. The tried and true way was to slowly starve a city into submission with a siege. God’s plan was that, led by trumpets blowing and the ark

Take-Home Point:

Shout! God is mighty! The victory is won!

You’ve seen kids take on adults in arm wrestling and such. They want to show their strength. But try as they might, they can’t. Kids won’t “win them all,” despite their best efforts. So they need to know that the most important battle has been won by Jesus, our Savior.

Our enemies of sin, Satan, and death are stronger than we are. If we battle them on our own, there is one sure thing: defeat. But God, our Mighty Fortress and Deliverer, battled those enemies through Jesus’ perfect life of obedience and His death. His resurrection victory gives us forgiveness of sins, salvation, and eternal life. In Jesus, the victory is won!

of the covenant, Israel’s warriors would march once around the city six days in a row. Then, on the seventh day . . .

Joshua 6:15–20 What were the people of Jericho thinking that seventh day? Maybe some trembled in fear, but others may have shook with laughter. They found security in their mighty walls.

Unexpectedly, on the seventh day, something new happened. God’s people marched around the walls seven times. Then, at the trumpet blast and the Israelite shout, those walls crumbled and fell. The walls of the city were crushed by God’s unseen hand. God gave His people victory. The proud citizens of Jericho had no backup, no god to save them.

God is our Mighty Fortress, our defense, our shield, and our Savior in whom we take refuge. When we face troubles in life and our efforts crumble and fail, He delivers us, saving us in Jesus Christ, our Savior King.

The ark of the covenant was a sign that our mighty God was visibly present with Israelites. Our mighty Jesus, the mighty King, Victory over sin and death, promises to be with His people always; His gracious reign is among us even now with His Word and His Sacraments. Through those visible means, He brings us into His reign and leads us in triumphal procession. Living in willing obedience to Him, we serve our neighbors. We share the good news of His victory and salvation with others.

Prayer: God, how great is Your might! How great is Your love for us! Thank You for giving us victory through our Savior, Jesus Christ. Be with us as we share this good news with the kids at VBS. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.

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Welcome, Poster Fun, and Learning Areas

20 minutes

Play music from the Leader CD in the background. Helpers with nametags stationed inside and outside of the entrance greet and direct families to the welcome table. While helping children with nametags, ask the parents/caregivers to use the Sign In & Out Sheet each day. You may wish to collect the VBS Mission offering at this time.

SAY: Hi, I’m (Leader’s name). (Child’s name), welcome to Mighty Fortress! We’ll do so many fun activities here. We’ll learn more about Jesus and His love for us. We’ll hear how powerful He is and how He won the victory for us over our enemies. You can go to the Poster Fun table. The Helpers will give you the posters and directions.Poster Fun Helpers give out posters and directions. Make sure first and last names are printed on the posters. Remind parents to leave the posters on the table before moving to the next activity. Helpers gather and sort posters alphabetically by last name to prepare for Lesson 2.

Arranging the classroom: You may choose to decorate the classroom as a castle/fortress. In addition to the learning areas, you may set up an area for pretend play that includes dress up clothes and stick horses and blocks for creating walls and towers. Another quiet area can have several king-themed books in a basket. Be sure to include children’s Bibles and Bible story books that reflect the lessons for the week. Carpet squares or tablecloths work well to define seating areas. You will need a kazoo (or trumpet) to use for transition times.

You need: Poster Fun, pencil or pen, green crayon or marker, and Ark of the Covenant Sticker

Parents: Print your child’s first and last name on the front. Look at the picture on the front with your child. SAY: Look at this picture! At Mighty Fortress, you will learn all kinds of things about fortresses and castles. What do you see in the picture? Let your child point out things that are familiar to him or her.

Turn over the poster to the back page. Have your child repeat the Lesson 1 Bible Memory Verse after you. Point to the Lesson 1 trumpet outline. SAY: A trumpet makes a bright and cheerful sound. Trumpets are often blown to celebrate a victory. God’s Word tells us that every

day is a day to celebrate because Jesus has won the victory for us. Color the trumpet flag green.Open Poster Fun and point to the Lesson 1 picture.

SAY: Look at the wall. What happened? (It’s falling down.) In the Bible story today, you will learn how our mighty God caused that wall to fall. Put the Ark of the Covenant Sticker in between the priests to show that God was with His people and gave them the victory. Repeat after me: SHOUT! GOD IS MIGHTY! THE VICTORY IS WON!Leave the activity on the table. Take your child to Learning Area 1. Once your child is engaged in the activity, you may quietly say goodbye and leave.

Poster Fun for Parents and Kids

Today You Need

Leader and Student Materials (p. 10)

Every Day Supplies (p. 11) Learning Area Supplies: a large poster board with a castle outline (Leader CD); grey or tan construction paper cut into 2-inch-wide strips; photos of castles from books or the Internet; various types of building blocks (e.g., wood cube blocks, large cardboard or wooden hollow blocks, or foam blocks); a trumpet; **a trumpeter; party kazoos, 1 per child labeled with name; picture of a ram’s horn (Leader CD)

Site Supplies: kazoos; cardboard box colored gold; 2 pool noodles; blocks; **painter’s tape; **5 pieces of paper for signs; **small plastic balls (2 per strong man); 7 pieces of paper, each with a sun on the front and a moon on the back

** indicates optional component

of the covenant, Israel’s warriors would march once around the city six days in a row. Then, on the seventh day . . .

Joshua 6:15–20 What were the people of Jericho thinking that seventh day? Maybe some trembled in fear, but others may have shook with laughter. They found security in their mighty walls.

Unexpectedly, on the seventh day, something new happened. God’s people marched around the walls seven times. Then, at the trumpet blast and the Israelite shout, those walls crumbled and fell. The walls of the city were crushed by God’s unseen hand. God gave His people victory. The proud citizens of Jericho had no backup, no god to save them.

God is our Mighty Fortress, our defense, our shield, and our Savior in whom we take refuge. When we face troubles in life and our efforts crumble and fail, He delivers us, saving us in Jesus Christ, our Savior King.

The ark of the covenant was a sign that our mighty God was visibly present with Israelites. Our mighty Jesus, the mighty King, Victory over sin and death, promises to be with His people always; His gracious reign is among us even now with His Word and His Sacraments. Through those visible means, He brings us into His reign and leads us in triumphal procession. Living in willing obedience to Him, we serve our neighbors. We share the good news of His victory and salvation with others.

Prayer: God, how great is Your might! How great is Your love for us! Thank You for giving us victory through our Savior, Jesus Christ. Be with us as we share this good news with the kids at VBS. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.

God is mighty! The victory is won!

Joshua 6:1–20

God Might Tumbles Jericho’s WallsLesson 1

Take-Home Point

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16 Early Childhood Leader Guide

Learning Area 1: Make ItA Mighty FortressGoal: Use fine motor muscles to cut out squares and rectangles and glue them to paper to build a castle. Children will learn that fortress is another name for a castle. God is our fortress. He is mighty and strong.

You need: a large piece of poster board with a simple castle outline (Leader CD) with a tower with turrets, grey or tan construction paper cut into 2-inch-wide strips, scissors, glue sticks, photos of castles (books or the Internet). Option: print the castle shape on individual letter-size papers for each child.

Show the poster board with the castle. SAY: What shape do you see here? Yes, it’s a castle. Another word for castle is fortress. You will hear that word a lot this week. What is a castle or fortress made of? Accept answers. Show photos so children see a castle made of stone. Hold up the construction paper. Is this stone? Do you think a fortress made of paper would stand up long? Probably not, but the paper one we will make reminds us of a stone castle. Is God like a paper fortress or a stone fortress? Yes, God is like a strong stone fortress. Our God is mighty. Show the children how to cut straight across the strips to make squares and rectangles. Help them glue the “stones” onto the castle, trying to put them in rows. This activity can continue throughout VBS. When finished, write a title on it like “God Is Our Mighty Fortress” and display!

Learning Area Options:Bible Story Coloring Pages (Leader CD): Use the lesson’s Coloring Page. Helpers can encourage the children to identify the objects and person on the Coloring Page. When pointing out the ark of the covenant, say that God is with His people. Helpers can tell the children that they will hear this Bible story later.

Learning Area 2: Build It Wall BuildingGoal: Children will build walls from blocks and experiment with stability and balance. They will experiment with different ways to knock them down.

You need: various types and styles of building blocks (e.g., traditional wood cube blocks, unit blocks, large cardboard or wooden hollow blocks, or foam blocks) SAY: In our Bible story today, we will hear about a huge wall around a city. Let’s see if we can build a

20 minutes

You need: a small table for an altar area (this could be as simple as a plastic crate turned over with a cloth on top, a cross, and battery-operated candle to place on the altar), Lyrics Sheets, Leader CD, Puppet Scripts and props, Hubert the Hound Puppet, kazoo (or trumpet, real or plastic horn), Bible

Blow the kazoo or trumpet to get everyone’s attention.

SING (to the tune of “Shortnin’ Bread”): Come to the altar. It’s time to worship.Come to the altar. Let’s all praise God.

Repeat as needed, encouraging the children to sing along as they move toward the altar area and are seated.

SAY: You have been very busy making walls and a fortress. Who can tell me what a fortress is? If students did not do Transition Activities, or do not know, explain, A fortress is a very strong castle. Another word for strong is mighty. This week, we will be learning how our God is a Mighty Fortress, and there is nothing He cannot do for us. Hold up the Bible. We know about our God when we hear His Word, which is the Bible. Every day, we will read a story from the Bible about how God showed His mighty power and how Jesus saves us.Show the children how to fold their hands. SAY: In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen. We say those words to remember our Baptism and that God is with us. Now I am going to light a candle to remind us that this is a very special time of hearing God’s Word. Light/turn on the candle. Let’s stand up and sing a song about how our mighty God gives us the victory. Stand to sing.SING: “Winners” (Leader CD, Track 4).

Teach the Take-Home PointStay standing. SAY: Here at Mighty Fortress, we have a special way of reminding one another of how God has won the victory for us. When you hear me or one of the Helpers say, “HEAR YE! HEAR YE! SHOUT! GOD IS MIGHTY!” while putting our hands around our mouth like this (demonstrate), you will all point up and say “SHOUT! GOD IS MIGHTY!” Then make a V with your fingers (demonstrate) and say “THE VICTORY IS WON!” Let’s try it, are you ready?SAY: (Cup hands around mouth.) HEAR YE! HEAR YE! SHOUT! GOD IS MIGHTY! KIDS AND LEADERS: (Point up.) SHOUT! GOD IS MIGHTY! (Make V with

wall. Encourage kids to experiment with building. Ask questions such as: Does it work better to build with all the same type of blocks or can we mix them up? How tall can we make the wall? Can we make a wall in a circle or does it have to have corners? If children are having trouble, offer suggestions (e.g., “I wonder what would happen if you . . .”).

The children will want to knock down their walls. Remind them that they can only knock down a wall they have built, not somebody else’s. Talk about different ways to make the walls fall.

SAY: In our Bible story, the walls were so big and strong that God’s people couldn’t knock them down. God knocked the wall down without their help. He is mighty and strong! God can do anything!

Learning Area 3: Act It Out Trumpet TimeGoal: The children learn about trumpets and practice making a trumpet/shout/trumpet/shout pattern.

You need: a trumpet; a trumpeter (optional); party kazoos, 1 per child, each labeled with his or her name; picture of a ram’s horn (Leader CD)

Show the trumpet/kazoo. SAY: Who can tell me something about this instrument? Allow students to give answers. Then demonstrate with your instrument or kazoo. If possible, give a brief demonstration of how the trumpet sounds using high and low pitches, a fanfare, and so on. SAY: In our Bible story, we will hear how some priests, who were like pastors, blew trumpets. The trumpets did not look like this one; they were made of a ram’s horn. Show photo. Only seven priests blew trumpets. The rest of the people did not blow trumpets. God told them to shout. Can you shout hooray? (Of course!)

Show how to blow a kazoo, then hand them out. Divide the children into two groups, one on your right and one on your left. SAY: We are going to make a pattern of sound. When I point to you (those on the left), you will play your kazoos. Demonstrate a short three note fanfare, ta, ta da. When I point to you (those on the right), you will shout “The victory is won!” and pump your fist in the air. Demonstrate. We will do this seven times, one for each day God’s people marched around Jericho. Alternate between trumpets and shouts seven times, then switch roles. Then, tell them to watch to see which group you point to. When done, put the kazoos aside for the children to use later.

Transition Activities Opening

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20 minutes

You need: a small table for an altar area (this could be as simple as a plastic crate turned over with a cloth on top, a cross, and battery-operated candle to place on the altar), Lyrics Sheets, Leader CD, Puppet Scripts and props, Hubert the Hound Puppet, kazoo (or trumpet, real or plastic horn), Bible

Blow the kazoo or trumpet to get everyone’s attention.

SING (to the tune of “Shortnin’ Bread”): Come to the altar. It’s time to worship.Come to the altar. Let’s all praise God.

Repeat as needed, encouraging the children to sing along as they move toward the altar area and are seated.

SAY: You have been very busy making walls and a fortress. Who can tell me what a fortress is? If students did not do Transition Activities, or do not know, explain, A fortress is a very strong castle. Another word for strong is mighty. This week, we will be learning how our God is a Mighty Fortress, and there is nothing He cannot do for us. Hold up the Bible. We know about our God when we hear His Word, which is the Bible. Every day, we will read a story from the Bible about how God showed His mighty power and how Jesus saves us.Show the children how to fold their hands. SAY: In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen. We say those words to remember our Baptism and that God is with us. Now I am going to light a candle to remind us that this is a very special time of hearing God’s Word. Light/turn on the candle. Let’s stand up and sing a song about how our mighty God gives us the victory. Stand to sing.SING: “Winners” (Leader CD, Track 4).

Teach the Take-Home PointStay standing. SAY: Here at Mighty Fortress, we have a special way of reminding one another of how God has won the victory for us. When you hear me or one of the Helpers say, “HEAR YE! HEAR YE! SHOUT! GOD IS MIGHTY!” while putting our hands around our mouth like this (demonstrate), you will all point up and say “SHOUT! GOD IS MIGHTY!” Then make a V with your fingers (demonstrate) and say “THE VICTORY IS WON!” Let’s try it, are you ready?SAY: (Cup hands around mouth.) HEAR YE! HEAR YE! SHOUT! GOD IS MIGHTY! KIDS AND LEADERS: (Point up.) SHOUT! GOD IS MIGHTY! (Make V with

wall. Encourage kids to experiment with building. Ask questions such as: Does it work better to build with all the same type of blocks or can we mix them up? How tall can we make the wall? Can we make a wall in a circle or does it have to have corners? If children are having trouble, offer suggestions (e.g., “I wonder what would happen if you . . .”).

The children will want to knock down their walls. Remind them that they can only knock down a wall they have built, not somebody else’s. Talk about different ways to make the walls fall.

SAY: In our Bible story, the walls were so big and strong that God’s people couldn’t knock them down. God knocked the wall down without their help. He is mighty and strong! God can do anything!

Learning Area 3: Act It Out Trumpet TimeGoal: The children learn about trumpets and practice making a trumpet/shout/trumpet/shout pattern.

You need: a trumpet; a trumpeter (optional); party kazoos, 1 per child, each labeled with his or her name; picture of a ram’s horn (Leader CD)

Show the trumpet/kazoo. SAY: Who can tell me something about this instrument? Allow students to give answers. Then demonstrate with your instrument or kazoo. If possible, give a brief demonstration of how the trumpet sounds using high and low pitches, a fanfare, and so on. SAY: In our Bible story, we will hear how some priests, who were like pastors, blew trumpets. The trumpets did not look like this one; they were made of a ram’s horn. Show photo. Only seven priests blew trumpets. The rest of the people did not blow trumpets. God told them to shout. Can you shout hooray? (Of course!)

Show how to blow a kazoo, then hand them out. Divide the children into two groups, one on your right and one on your left. SAY: We are going to make a pattern of sound. When I point to you (those on the left), you will play your kazoos. Demonstrate a short three note fanfare, ta, ta da. When I point to you (those on the right), you will shout “The victory is won!” and pump your fist in the air. Demonstrate. We will do this seven times, one for each day God’s people marched around Jericho. Alternate between trumpets and shouts seven times, then switch roles. Then, tell them to watch to see which group you point to. When done, put the kazoos aside for the children to use later.

fingers.) THE VICTORY IS WON! Now let’s do it again in a whisper voice. Repeat Take-Home Point. Now let’s do it again in our loudest victory voice. Repeat Take-Home Point.

PraySAY: Now let’s talk to God by praying. Invite the children to fold their hands, bow their heads, and repeat each phrase of the prayer after you. Pause after each forward slash mark (/).

SAY: God, / You are our Mighty Fortress. / Help us to listen / and learn / how You have won the victory. / We pray in Jesus’ name. / Amen.If you collected a VBS Mission offering, have a child bring the offering to you, then offer a prayer of thanks.

Opening Puppet SkitYou need: DIY Tower Top Puppet Stage or table for the puppet skit; Hubert the Hound Puppet, Puppet Script (Leader CD)

Summary: The children meet the castle tour guide and Hubert, the Duke’s loyal, rabbit-hunting dog. The children begin to understand the concept of a fortress and strong, thick walls.

After the skit, SAY: Hubert sure works hard to make sure nothing harms the Duke’s walls, doesn’t he? Now let’s hear about how a strong wall came crashing down. It’s time for our Storytelling. Let’s hear about our mighty, mighty God.

Transition Activities Opening

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18 Early Childhood Leader Guide

20 minutes

You need: Bible, Lesson 1 Bible Story Poster.

Display Lesson 1 Bible Story Poster and point to it at appropriate times in the telling of the Bible story.

Hold up the Bible and SAY: In the Bible, we hear about a time when God’s people had some enemies. The enemies were in a town called Jericho. The city had a huge wall around it, so God’s people could not get into the town. God told them that He would give them the victory over their enemies by knocking the wall down. How do you think God knocked the wall down? Let the children guess. If they don’t know, SAY: God didn’t need to knock it down in any of those ways because He is God and He can do anything! Let’s see what God did to give His people the victory.Do the following activity like the chant “We’re Going on a Bear Hunt.”

SAY: Do what I do. We are going to march. Lift your knees high and pump your arms. Demonstrate. Now I will say something, and you will say the same thing after me. Encourage Helpers to assist with the repeated part. Keeping up the rhythm by marching in place, begin the chant with the refrain. SAY: (with the children repeating):Refrain:

We’re marching around Jericho. (Lift knees high.)God’s going to knock the walls down. (Shake head yes.)We’re not afraid. (Shake head no.)God’s won the victory! (Make V symbol with fingers.)

First in line (Hold up one finger.)Are the mighty men. (Flex muscles.)Next in line (Point thumb backwards.)Are the priests with the trumpets. (Put hands to mouth as if playing a trumpet.)Next in line (Point thumb backwards.)Is the ark of God. (Place palms together in prayer.)Next in line (Point thumb backwards.)Are more mighty men. (Flex muscles.)Last in line (Point thumb backwards.)Are the people of God. (Point both thumbs to self.)We will march, (Lift knees high.)But not make a sound. (Put finger to lips as if shushing.)

Repeat Refrain.

One day! (Hold up 1 finger; don’t repeat, but march 6 more steps in place.)Two days! (Hold up 2 fingers; don’t repeat, but march 6 more steps in place.)

1 hour Early Childhood Teams get into three Rotation Groups. Each Rotation Group marches to their assigned Rotation Site. When it is time to move to a different Rotation Site, blow the kazoo or trumpet in a fanfare.

Rotation 1: Bible Story Application About 20 minutes

ReviewYou need: Lesson 1 Little Lookouts Early Childhood Leaflet and stickers, crayons.

Give Lesson 1 Little Lookouts Early Childhood Leaflets to small-group Leaders. Sit at tables or on carpet squares in a circle on the floor. Make sure each child’s name is on his or her leaflet. As you pass out each one, SAY: This is for God’s child (name of child). When all the leaflets are distributed, SAY: Can you point to your name? Jesus has won the victory for you! SAY: Look at the picture. Can you point to the wall? Is it standing or falling? (Falling) Point to a trumpet. Who is blowing the trumpet? (The priests) Do you see a big box with angels on top? Point to it. This is called the ark of the covenant. God was always with His people. Do you see any soldiers? Point to them. Did God use the soldiers to knock the wall down? (No!) God knocked the wall down without any soldiers or fighting. He is our Mighty Fortress and sure defense. What did the people do? The people did what God told them to do. They marched around Jericho. The priests blew trumpets, but the people did not make a sound just like God commanded.

Leaflet ActivityPass out the stickers for Lesson 1.

SAY: Let’s open up our leaflet and look inside. Allow time to do this. Our mighty God helped His people when He made the walls of Jericho tumble down. Our mighty God helps us too! Look at the picture of the outdoors! What do you see that God gives us to help us? Discuss the items pictured: the sun; water and fish; plants; rain to water the plants; trees with apples, chickens with eggs; and animals. God made our world, and He gives us many things we can see and touch. He also gives us things we can’t see, such as air to breathe and the wind that blows! What other things outside does God give us? Color the picture and draw in other things God gives us. Discuss these wonderful

Three days! (Hold up 3 fingers; don’t repeat, but march 6 more steps in place.)Four days! (Hold up 4 fingers; don’t repeat, but march 6 more steps in place.)Five days! (Hold up 5 fingers; don’t repeat, but march 6 more steps in place.)Six days! (Hold up 6 fingers; don’t repeat, but march 6 more steps in place.)

Repeat Refrain.Now it’s the seventh day. (Hold up 7 fingers.)We’ll do it seven times! (Keep 7 fingers up.)1! 2! 3! 4! 5! 6! 7! (Count together; continue march-ing in place.)Priests blow your trumpets (Put hands to mouth as if blowing trumpets.)Now we can shout! (Cup hands to mouth.)Hooray for God! (Wave hands in the air.)And the walls came down. (Plop down on the floor.)

Do the rest of the chant seated. Instead of marching, clap or pat the rhythm.

We marched around Jericho. (Keep steady beat with hands.)God knocked the walls down. (Shake head yes.)We weren’t afraid. (Shake head no.)God won the victory! (Make V symbol with fingers.)

SAY: God did not need an army or bulldozers or (name things children mentioned at the beginning of the story that might knock down walls). He is so mighty! The walls fell down by God’s mighty power. Sometimes, we have things that make us afraid. We might be afraid that when we do bad things, God does not love us. But Jesus gave us another victory. When He died on the cross and rose from the dead, He knocked down the wall of sin. Jesus forgives us of our sins, and now we live as God’s people and live in His strength, power, and love. I am happy that I am one of God’s people, aren’t you?SING: (tune of “Joshua Fought the Battle of Jericho”):

God fought the battle of Jericho, Jericho, Jericho.God fought the battle of Jericho and the walls came tumbling down.Jesus won the victory over sin, over sin, over sin.Jesus won the victory over sin, and sin’s walls came tumbling down.Jesus’ love and mercy helps us forgive, us forgive, us forgive.Jesus’ love and mercy helps us forgive, because He first forgave us.

Blow the kazoo in a fanfare and SAY: It’s time to move. Follow your Leaders.

Bible Storytelling Rotation Sites

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1 hour Early Childhood Teams get into three Rotation Groups. Each Rotation Group marches to their assigned Rotation Site. When it is time to move to a different Rotation Site, blow the kazoo or trumpet in a fanfare.

Rotation 1: Bible Story Application About 20 minutes

ReviewYou need: Lesson 1 Little Lookouts Early Childhood Leaflet and stickers, crayons.

Give Lesson 1 Little Lookouts Early Childhood Leaflets to small-group Leaders. Sit at tables or on carpet squares in a circle on the floor. Make sure each child’s name is on his or her leaflet. As you pass out each one, SAY: This is for God’s child (name of child). When all the leaflets are distributed, SAY: Can you point to your name? Jesus has won the victory for you! SAY: Look at the picture. Can you point to the wall? Is it standing or falling? (Falling) Point to a trumpet. Who is blowing the trumpet? (The priests) Do you see a big box with angels on top? Point to it. This is called the ark of the covenant. God was always with His people. Do you see any soldiers? Point to them. Did God use the soldiers to knock the wall down? (No!) God knocked the wall down without any soldiers or fighting. He is our Mighty Fortress and sure defense. What did the people do? The people did what God told them to do. They marched around Jericho. The priests blew trumpets, but the people did not make a sound just like God commanded.

Leaflet ActivityPass out the stickers for Lesson 1.

SAY: Let’s open up our leaflet and look inside. Allow time to do this. Our mighty God helped His people when He made the walls of Jericho tumble down. Our mighty God helps us too! Look at the picture of the outdoors! What do you see that God gives us to help us? Discuss the items pictured: the sun; water and fish; plants; rain to water the plants; trees with apples, chickens with eggs; and animals. God made our world, and He gives us many things we can see and touch. He also gives us things we can’t see, such as air to breathe and the wind that blows! What other things outside does God give us? Color the picture and draw in other things God gives us. Discuss these wonderful

Three days! (Hold up 3 fingers; don’t repeat, but march 6 more steps in place.)Four days! (Hold up 4 fingers; don’t repeat, but march 6 more steps in place.)Five days! (Hold up 5 fingers; don’t repeat, but march 6 more steps in place.)Six days! (Hold up 6 fingers; don’t repeat, but march 6 more steps in place.)

Repeat Refrain.Now it’s the seventh day. (Hold up 7 fingers.)We’ll do it seven times! (Keep 7 fingers up.)1! 2! 3! 4! 5! 6! 7! (Count together; continue march-ing in place.)Priests blow your trumpets (Put hands to mouth as if blowing trumpets.)Now we can shout! (Cup hands to mouth.)Hooray for God! (Wave hands in the air.)And the walls came down. (Plop down on the floor.)

Do the rest of the chant seated. Instead of marching, clap or pat the rhythm.

We marched around Jericho. (Keep steady beat with hands.)God knocked the walls down. (Shake head yes.)We weren’t afraid. (Shake head no.)God won the victory! (Make V symbol with fingers.)

SAY: God did not need an army or bulldozers or (name things children mentioned at the beginning of the story that might knock down walls). He is so mighty! The walls fell down by God’s mighty power. Sometimes, we have things that make us afraid. We might be afraid that when we do bad things, God does not love us. But Jesus gave us another victory. When He died on the cross and rose from the dead, He knocked down the wall of sin. Jesus forgives us of our sins, and now we live as God’s people and live in His strength, power, and love. I am happy that I am one of God’s people, aren’t you?SING: (tune of “Joshua Fought the Battle of Jericho”):

God fought the battle of Jericho, Jericho, Jericho.God fought the battle of Jericho and the walls came tumbling down.Jesus won the victory over sin, over sin, over sin.Jesus won the victory over sin, and sin’s walls came tumbling down.Jesus’ love and mercy helps us forgive, us forgive, us forgive.Jesus’ love and mercy helps us forgive, because He first forgave us.

Blow the kazoo in a fanfare and SAY: It’s time to move. Follow your Leaders.

gifts from God and how they help us. Include that the sun keeps us warm and helps everything grow. Water is so important for all plants, animals, and us! Our mighty God is so good to us! We are thankful for all the good things He gives us and how they help us. SAY: Look at the picture on the other side. God gives us many other things! What is on the picture? (Clothes, houses, and food) Thank You, God! Our mighty God gives us good things! Discuss these wonderful gifts from our mighty God. God gives us our families! How do our families help us? Allow discussion. Draw yourself and your family in the box! SAY: Our mighty God gives us other important things. Sometimes, we are afraid. Sometimes, we do things that are wrong. Our mighty God sent Jesus, our Savior. Jesus is our champion! He won the victory over sin. Jesus died on the cross to forgive our sins, and God gives us faith. Find the sticker that shows a heart with the face of Jesus in it. Put this sticker in the circle to show Jesus is our Savior. Our mighty God helps us and gives us so many good things! Thank you, God!SAY: (Cup hands around mouth.) HEAR YE! HEAR YE! SHOUT! GOD IS MIGHTY! KIDS AND LEADERS: (Point up.) SHOUT! GOD IS MIGHTY! (Make V with fingers.) THE VICTORY IS WON!

Bible Storytelling Rotation Sites

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20 Early Childhood Leader Guide

Rotation 2: Bible Challenge About 20 minutes

The Bible Memory SongYou need: Bible with the Bible Memory Verse marked, Bible Memory Songs Sign Chart, Leader CD, and CD player

SAY: Our Bible Memory Verse is “Thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ,” 1 Corinthians 15:57. Those words are from God’s book, the Bible. Let’s sing this Bible Memory Verse together. Play Leader CD, Track 9. Add the motions as shown on the Bible Memory Songs Sign Chart (Leader CD).

Story ReviewYou need: kazoos (use ones from learning area 3 used during Transition Time), cardboard box for ark of the covenant (optional: covered in gold paint or wrapping paper) set on a tray or securely attached to 2 pool noodles (1 on either side of the box), blocks set up as a square or circular wall in the center of the room. Optional items: painter’s tape, 5 pieces of paper for signs, and small plastic balls (2 per strong man), Lesson 1 Bible Story Poster.

Display the Lesson 1 Bible Story Poster and point to it at appropriate times as you review the Bible story.

Set up the blocks before starting the activity. Explain that the block wall is the walled city of Jericho. SAY: We are going to pretend to march around Jericho like God’s people did. Practice marching in place, stopping and starting on your “Go” and “Stop” cues. SAY: Let’s get into a marching line; remember that God gave them a special order to be in as they walked around the city. Choose students to be the following characters and put them in marching order. Depending on the size of your group, you may have only one child for each type of character. If your group is large, have seven priests, since this number is significant. You may use signs to designate separate areas for them to stand in as they line up and you could create a circle path around the blocks with painter’s tape.

SAY: First, we will have strong men as the line leaders. To the children who will be strong men, SAY: How can you show me you are strong? Encourage them to flex their muscles. Option: Have them set plastic balls inside each shirt sleeve like large bicep muscles.

SAY: Next, we will have the priests blowing their trumpets. Give the priests their kazoos, but give instructions not to blow until you tell them to.

SAY: Now, we will have the ark of the covenant. Have two children hold the tray, one on each side, or have

Rotation 3: Crafts About 20 minutes

Mighty Fortress Sand Art

You Need ■ Mighty Fortress Sand Art board, 1 per person

■ Paper clips or toothpicks

■ Spoons

■ Sand (sold separately) & containers for sand

■ Picture hanger or magnet, 1 each (optional)

■ Tape or glue (optional)

■ Sandwich zipper bags

■ Finished sample craft

Make It!Gather supplies. Leaders put the child’s name on the back of the board. Show the children the supplies.

Use a paper clip or toothpick to pull up part of the sand art board, exposing the sticky, die-cut shapes. The children should start in the center and work out, one section at a time. Model, and then help and encourage individuals as needed.

Children spoon sand onto the revealed adhesive. Direct the children to hold the board over a container to catch excess sand. Encourage them to start with darker sand first.

Children continue to pull off pieces and apply colored sand until the entire board is covered.

Leaders tape or glue a picture hanger or magnet to the back.

Children put the sand board in a zipper bag for the ride home. Help the children seal it tightly.

Putting It All Together Welcome kids as they arrive. Introduce yourself and any volunteers working in your area.

SAY: (Cup hands around mouth.) HEAR YE! HEAR YE! SHOUT! GOD IS MIGHTY! KIDS and LEADERS: (Point up.) SHOUT! GOD IS MIGHTY! (Make V with fingers.) THE VICTORY IS WON!

SAY: The wall around Jericho looked very big to God’s people. But God is mighty and has all power. He told His people to march around the city wall, have the priests blow trumpets (point to trumpet on sand art sample), and shout! The people followed God’s direction, and God brought down the wall. This is how our mighty God won the victory for His people over their enemies.

four children hold the ark, each at one end of a pool noodle. The ark of the covenant was special because it showed God was with His people, fighting the battle for them. SAY: Next, we need more strong men. Place the strong men after the ark, making sure they flex their muscles.

SAY: The rest of you will be God’s people. I will be Joshua. Stand with the rest of the children behind the strong men. SAY: Now, we will march around Jericho. Remember, the people were not to make a sound, only the trumpets would blow. March around the block wall once, instructing the priest to blow the kazoos the entire march around the wall. SAY: Stop. That is the first day. Does anybody remember how many days God told the people to march? (Six) Repeat the activity five more times, then SAY: Now it is the seventh day. What is different about this day? (God told His people to march around Jericho seven times and then shout.) SAY: Okay, here we go. March around, counting each time you make an entire circuit around the wall. On the seventh time, SAY: Shout! For the Lord has given you the city! Lead the children in joyful shouting, and safely knock the walls down.

As time allows, repeat the activity, allowing the children to play different characters.SAY: (Cup hands around mouth.) HEAR YE! HEAR YE! SHOUT! GOD IS MIGHTY! KIDS AND LEADERS: (Point up.) SHOUT! GOD IS MIGHTY! (Make V with fingers.) THE VICTORY IS WON!

The Quiet and Loud GameYou need: 7 pieces of paper, each with a sun on the front and a moon on the back

Have the children pretend to be God’s people waiting, in faith, for God to deliver them from their enemies. Help the children form a circle and have them pretend to pray for seven “days.” Challenge them to fold their hands and not make any noise for as long as they can. Count out loud as you hold up each piece of paper and show the front and slowly turn it to the back. When you reach the seventh day, count out loud to seven, then tell the children to shout for joy! God won the victory!

To make the game more challenging, have them “freeze” in one position, vary the length of the “days” by holding up the paper a longer period of time, and have Helpers stand in the middle of the children’s circle and pretend to be the people living in Jericho. The Helpers will try to get the children to talk or make a noise by asking them questions that gently taunt, such as “What are you doing?” or “You’ll never defeat us!” Encourage the children to focus on praying and quietly trusting in God to give the victory He promised.

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Rotation 3: Crafts About 20 minutes

Mighty Fortress Sand Art

You Need ■ Mighty Fortress Sand Art board, 1 per person

■ Paper clips or toothpicks

■ Spoons

■ Sand (sold separately) & containers for sand

■ Picture hanger or magnet, 1 each (optional)

■ Tape or glue (optional)

■ Sandwich zipper bags

■ Finished sample craft

Make It!Gather supplies. Leaders put the child’s name on the back of the board. Show the children the supplies.

Use a paper clip or toothpick to pull up part of the sand art board, exposing the sticky, die-cut shapes. The children should start in the center and work out, one section at a time. Model, and then help and encourage individuals as needed.

Children spoon sand onto the revealed adhesive. Direct the children to hold the board over a container to catch excess sand. Encourage them to start with darker sand first.

Children continue to pull off pieces and apply colored sand until the entire board is covered.

Leaders tape or glue a picture hanger or magnet to the back.

Children put the sand board in a zipper bag for the ride home. Help the children seal it tightly.

Putting It All Together Welcome kids as they arrive. Introduce yourself and any volunteers working in your area.

SAY: (Cup hands around mouth.) HEAR YE! HEAR YE! SHOUT! GOD IS MIGHTY! KIDS and LEADERS: (Point up.) SHOUT! GOD IS MIGHTY! (Make V with fingers.) THE VICTORY IS WON!

SAY: The wall around Jericho looked very big to God’s people. But God is mighty and has all power. He told His people to march around the city wall, have the priests blow trumpets (point to trumpet on sand art sample), and shout! The people followed God’s direction, and God brought down the wall. This is how our mighty God won the victory for His people over their enemies.

four children hold the ark, each at one end of a pool noodle. The ark of the covenant was special because it showed God was with His people, fighting the battle for them. SAY: Next, we need more strong men. Place the strong men after the ark, making sure they flex their muscles.

SAY: The rest of you will be God’s people. I will be Joshua. Stand with the rest of the children behind the strong men. SAY: Now, we will march around Jericho. Remember, the people were not to make a sound, only the trumpets would blow. March around the block wall once, instructing the priest to blow the kazoos the entire march around the wall. SAY: Stop. That is the first day. Does anybody remember how many days God told the people to march? (Six) Repeat the activity five more times, then SAY: Now it is the seventh day. What is different about this day? (God told His people to march around Jericho seven times and then shout.) SAY: Okay, here we go. March around, counting each time you make an entire circuit around the wall. On the seventh time, SAY: Shout! For the Lord has given you the city! Lead the children in joyful shouting, and safely knock the walls down.

As time allows, repeat the activity, allowing the children to play different characters.SAY: (Cup hands around mouth.) HEAR YE! HEAR YE! SHOUT! GOD IS MIGHTY! KIDS AND LEADERS: (Point up.) SHOUT! GOD IS MIGHTY! (Make V with fingers.) THE VICTORY IS WON!

The Quiet and Loud GameYou need: 7 pieces of paper, each with a sun on the front and a moon on the back

Have the children pretend to be God’s people waiting, in faith, for God to deliver them from their enemies. Help the children form a circle and have them pretend to pray for seven “days.” Challenge them to fold their hands and not make any noise for as long as they can. Count out loud as you hold up each piece of paper and show the front and slowly turn it to the back. When you reach the seventh day, count out loud to seven, then tell the children to shout for joy! God won the victory!

To make the game more challenging, have them “freeze” in one position, vary the length of the “days” by holding up the paper a longer period of time, and have Helpers stand in the middle of the children’s circle and pretend to be the people living in Jericho. The Helpers will try to get the children to talk or make a noise by asking them questions that gently taunt, such as “What are you doing?” or “You’ll never defeat us!” Encourage the children to focus on praying and quietly trusting in God to give the victory He promised.

You and I face enemy challenges too. We have fears and troubles. We are tempted. We sin. As you work on your Mighty Fortress Sand Art, think about some of these enemy challenges in your lives. They look big and intimidating too! On your own, you cannot knock them down. But God is mighty! He sent His Son, Jesus, to fight the battle and win the victory against your biggest enemies: sin, death, and the devil. He promises to be with you and fight for you now too. He has the power to knock the fears out of your lives, so that you can live in His strength, power, and love.At home, when you see your sand art, thank God for sending Jesus to win the victory over your enemies. Or give your Mighty Fortress Sand Art to someone who is afraid or has troubles. Tell the person about our mighty God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. That’s something to shout about!Or make this alternate craft. (See Craft Guide for a picture.)

Mighty Fortress Bible Words Holder

You’ll need: brown paper crafting bag, 1 per student; brown paper or newspaper; mini clothespins, 1 per student; scissors; markers or crayons; glue & tape; index cards or labels with Bible Words; construction paper (optional).

Make It! Remove handles and trim bag to desired height. Cut squares from top to make turrets. Draw a door and rocks on the fortress, or cut stones from construction paper to glue to it. For stability, stuff with paper. Glue a clothespin to the fortress. Cut index cards in half diagonally. Write Bible verses on each card, or print verses on labels to attach to the cards. Insert a card into clothespin. Store others in the fortress. Use your fortress to learn VBS Bible Words at home, or give it as a gift. Share how our mighty God gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.

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22 Early Childhood Leader Guide

20 minutes

Tumbling Walls

You Need ■ Plate and plastic knife for each child

■ Whole wheat bread (1 slice per child)

■ Cheese spread (about 2 tablespoons each)

■ Square cheese crackers (5–7 pieces each)

■ Corn snacks shaped like bugles (3 pieces each)

■ A handful of Cheerios

■ Hand sanitizer, napkins, cups, and water

■ Finished sample.

Advance PreparationBefore the kids arrive, you may wish to put the small snack ingredients in individual plastic bags. Consider putting a bread slice and a dollop of cheese spread on individual plates ahead of time as well. Put all snack items on each Team’s table.

When Kids Arrive Take the children to the restroom. Have them wash their hands. Have them sit in their places.

SAY: Welcome to Great Hall Snacks! The “Great Hall” is the place in the fortress where everyone gathers to celebrate! Each time we gather for snack, we will celebrate our mighty God and the victory that our Savior, Jesus, has won. Let’s say our Take-Home Point together. Share the Take-Home Point. SAY: (Cup hands around mouth.) HEAR YE! HEAR YE! SHOUT! GOD IS MIGHTY! KIDS and LEADERS: (Point up.) SHOUT! GOD IS MIGHTY! (Make V with fingers.) THE VICTORY IS WON!SAY: Today, we celebrate our mighty God! The people of Jericho were enemies of God, but they had a BIG fortress! God showed His might to His people and the people of Jericho. God told His people what to do. They walked around the walls of Jericho for six days. On the seventh day, they walked around it seven times. Then, they shouted and the trumpets blew. God made the walls tumble down. Our mighty God won the victory!

Making the SnackShow the finished sample. SAY: Our snack will tell the story of how God tumbled the walls of Jericho. First, you’ll spread the cheese on the piece of bread. Some

20 minutes

Launch It

You Need ■ DIY Catapult (Leader CD) (Option: ball launcher)

■ Beanbags or balls

■ Boxes (at least 3 decorated as stones)

■ Hula-Hoops

■ Tarp or rope

■ Laundry basket

Get ReadyStart by making a catapult using the directions below. Set up a playing field based on how far your catapult can shoot the objects. On the playing field, strategically place a tower or wall of boxes, an area of Hula-Hoops, a tarp or large roped-off area, and one laundry basket. The fun part of this game will be launching balls and trying to hit a target.

Here We GoSAY: Welcome to Tournament Games! My name is (your name). In our Bible story, we hear about the fortified wall that surrounded and protected the city of Jericho. It was a mighty strong wall! Something even stronger would be needed to tumble down those walls.LEADER: (Cup hands around mouth.) HEAR YE! HEAR YE! SHOUT! GOD IS MIGHTY! KIDS and LEADERS: (Point up.) SHOUT! GOD IS MIGHTY! (Make V with fingers.) THE VICTORY IS WON!SAY: God used His mighty power to bring down the walls of Jericho. In medieval times, armies would use catapults to bring down the walls of their enemies. We are going use a catapult to launch balls at targets. Each person will launch a ball with the catapult and try to hit a target. Demonstrate how to safely step on the catapult to launch the ball. Line up the Teams and have the Teams take turns with the catapult.

Game leaders will need to return the balls or beanbags to the catapult and set the wall back up as needed. If there is enough time, the kids can go again.

When finished, have the students sit together for this brief talk. SAY: What does it mean to be mighty? (Strong, powerful) Did you feel mighty when you launched the catapult? (Let students answer.) How did the walls come down at Jericho? (While the Israelites

children will need help spreading the cheese. Then put the cracker squares in a circle for the fortress walls of Jericho. Then, put the round cereal around the walls for God’s people marching as God told them. Finally, put the bugles on your bread. Hold up the finished example.

SAY: Let’s thank God for this delicious snack. Say a snack prayer and eat. Before we eat, let’s all take one of the bugles and say “Shout! God is mighty!” Then we’ll make a trumpet sound with our bugle! After that, SAY: Now push the square crackers so they fall down! Eat and enjoy your snack!

Before They GoSAY: God’s power made the walls of Jericho tumble down. God won the victory for Israel, His people. God is mighty and strong. He helps us, protects us, and saves us. God gives us the victory in Jesus, our Savior. Let’s say today’s Take-Home Point one more time. SAY: (Cup hands around mouth.) HEAR YE! HEAR YE! SHOUT: GOD IS MIGHTY! KIDS and LEADERS: (Point up.) SHOUT! GOD IS MIGHTY! (Make V with fingers.) THE VICTORY IS WON!

Snack Games

Use this prayer, choose one from another snack page, or use one familiar to you and your kids:

Thank You(Sing to the tune of “Jesus Loves Me.”) Thank You for the world so sweet. Thank You for the food we eat. Thank You for the birds that sing. Thank You, God, for everything.

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20 minutes

Launch It

You Need ■ DIY Catapult (Leader CD) (Option: ball launcher)

■ Beanbags or balls

■ Boxes (at least 3 decorated as stones)

■ Hula-Hoops

■ Tarp or rope

■ Laundry basket

Get ReadyStart by making a catapult using the directions below. Set up a playing field based on how far your catapult can shoot the objects. On the playing field, strategically place a tower or wall of boxes, an area of Hula-Hoops, a tarp or large roped-off area, and one laundry basket. The fun part of this game will be launching balls and trying to hit a target.

Here We GoSAY: Welcome to Tournament Games! My name is (your name). In our Bible story, we hear about the fortified wall that surrounded and protected the city of Jericho. It was a mighty strong wall! Something even stronger would be needed to tumble down those walls.LEADER: (Cup hands around mouth.) HEAR YE! HEAR YE! SHOUT! GOD IS MIGHTY! KIDS and LEADERS: (Point up.) SHOUT! GOD IS MIGHTY! (Make V with fingers.) THE VICTORY IS WON!SAY: God used His mighty power to bring down the walls of Jericho. In medieval times, armies would use catapults to bring down the walls of their enemies. We are going use a catapult to launch balls at targets. Each person will launch a ball with the catapult and try to hit a target. Demonstrate how to safely step on the catapult to launch the ball. Line up the Teams and have the Teams take turns with the catapult.

Game leaders will need to return the balls or beanbags to the catapult and set the wall back up as needed. If there is enough time, the kids can go again.

When finished, have the students sit together for this brief talk. SAY: What does it mean to be mighty? (Strong, powerful) Did you feel mighty when you launched the catapult? (Let students answer.) How did the walls come down at Jericho? (While the Israelites

children will need help spreading the cheese. Then put the cracker squares in a circle for the fortress walls of Jericho. Then, put the round cereal around the walls for God’s people marching as God told them. Finally, put the bugles on your bread. Hold up the finished example.

SAY: Let’s thank God for this delicious snack. Say a snack prayer and eat. Before we eat, let’s all take one of the bugles and say “Shout! God is mighty!” Then we’ll make a trumpet sound with our bugle! After that, SAY: Now push the square crackers so they fall down! Eat and enjoy your snack!

Before They GoSAY: God’s power made the walls of Jericho tumble down. God won the victory for Israel, His people. God is mighty and strong. He helps us, protects us, and saves us. God gives us the victory in Jesus, our Savior. Let’s say today’s Take-Home Point one more time. SAY: (Cup hands around mouth.) HEAR YE! HEAR YE! SHOUT: GOD IS MIGHTY! KIDS and LEADERS: (Point up.) SHOUT! GOD IS MIGHTY! (Make V with fingers.) THE VICTORY IS WON!

marched around the city playing trumpets and gave a shout on the seventh day, our mighty God made those walls come down.) We know that God was the mighty one at Jericho, not Joshua, not the people of Israel. God is our all-powerful Mighty Fortress.SAY: (Cup hands around mouth.) HEAR YE! HEAR YE! SHOUT! GOD IS MIGHTY! KIDS and LEADERS: (Point up.) SHOUT! GOD IS MIGHTY! (Make V with fingers.) THE VICTORY IS WON!

Fun in the Play YardIf your Games time is in a play yard, consider using activities from the learning area too. Wall Building is a possibility. Or march around the play yard playing kazoos!

Catapult Directions1 One-by-four, 4–6 feet in length

4-inch PVC coupling, 10 inches long (or a 10-inch piece of 4-inch PVC pipe)

Bungee cords (optional, but recommended)

Plastic bowls.

Place the PVC piece under the board about 1 foot from the edge and stomp on the edge to launch. Attaching the board to the PVC pipe with bungee cords. Attach a plastic basket or bucket to the far end to hold the bean bags or balls before launch. (We attached plastic bowls with screws. The bowls really helped launch our bean bags farther.)

Snack Games

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24 Early Childhood Leader Guide

About 15 minutes

Closing Puppet SkitYou need: DIY Tower Top Puppet Stage, Hubert the Hound Puppet, Puppet Script, Lesson 1 Little Lookouts Early Childhood Leaflet, Lesson 1 Collectible, kazoo or trumpet, children’s take-home items

Blow the kazoo/trumpet to get the children’s attention. Seat the children on the floor or carpet squares.

SING: “Winners” (Leader CD, Track 4).

Bring out the Hubert the Hound Puppet to review the concept of fortress. Use the Puppet Script from the Leader CD.

Pray After the skit, close with this echo prayer: Dear Jesus, / thank You for being with us at Mighty Fortress today. / Thank You / for winning the victory over sin / by dying for us / and rising again. / Lead us / to follow You. / In Your name we pray. / Amen.SAY: We have done a lot of marching today. When you see someone marching, do you think they are strong or weak? (Strong) When we march, we can hold our heads high because we are God’s people and He has won the victory for us over sin. We have confidence because our God is mightier than anything! Our God is victorious, we don’t have to

be afraid. Tomorrow, we will hear about someone who was afraid, but God helped and delivered that person. SAY: (Cup hands around mouth.) HEAR YE! HEAR YE! SHOUT! GOD IS MIGHTY! KIDS AND LEADERS: (Point up.) SHOUT! GOD IS MIGHTY! (Make V with fingers.) THE VICTORY IS WON!SAY: Now let’s do it again in a whisper voice. Repeat Take-Home Point. Now let’s do it again in our loudest victory voice. Repeat Take-Home Point.

Show Lesson 1 Lesson Leaflet. SAY: Please take this home and ask your Mom or Dad to read it. There is something special on the front and back pages for your family to do together.Thank your Helpers. Send home Lesson 1 Little Lookouts Early Childhood Leaflet, the Lesson 1 Collectible, and other take-home items. As you say good-bye to children at sign-out time, remind parents to read the leaflet at home.

Looking AheadPray for your students and Helpers.

Restock or prepare learning areas with Lesson 2 materials.

Lay out Poster Fun from Early Childhood Leaflets for next lesson’s Transition Activities.

Prepare the Storytelling materials.

Review the next lesson. Ask your team members what adjustments might improve the schedule or activities.

Closing

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be afraid. Tomorrow, we will hear about someone who was afraid, but God helped and delivered that person. SAY: (Cup hands around mouth.) HEAR YE! HEAR YE! SHOUT! GOD IS MIGHTY! KIDS AND LEADERS: (Point up.) SHOUT! GOD IS MIGHTY!(Make V with fingers.) THE VICTORY IS WON!SAY: Now let’s do it again in a whisper voice. Repeat Take-Home Point. Now let’s do it again in our loudest victory voice. Repeat Take-Home Point.

Show Lesson 1 Lesson Leaflet. SAY: Please take this home and ask your Mom or Dad to read it. There is something special on the front and back pages for your family to do together.Thank your Helpers. Send home Lesson 1 Little LookoutsEarly Childhood Leaflet, the Lesson 1 Collectible, and othertake-home items. As you say good-bye to children at sign-out time, remind parents to read the leaflet at home.

Looking AheadPray for your students and Helpers.

Restock or prepare learning areas with Lesson 2 materials.

Lay out Poster Fun from Early Childhood Leaflets for next lesson’s Transition Activities.

Prepare the Storytelling materials.

Review the next lesson. Ask your team members what adjustments might improve the schedule or activities.

Closing

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