Scripture: Nehemiah
Learning Objectives:
- Students will learn God wants us to repent of our sins and be restored to Him.
- Students will learn prayer is an important part of our relationship with God.
- Students will learn we must be prepared to do what God wants us to do even in the face of opposition.
- Students will complete a service project that provides education toys for special needs children.
Guiding Question: How does providing something that someone needs show God’s character?
Materials: Follow the link for instructions and materials: http://mamaguru.com/nuts-and-bolts-board-montessori-diy/
Procedure: Review the story of Nehemiah including the importance of prayer, forgiveness, and being prepared to do what God asks of us. Tell the students that sometimes, they may feel that God is calling them to help a certain person or group of people. Praying to God and asking for His direction will help you figure out how to serve that person best. Explain that when we are serving others, we are imitating God’s character of being a servant, loving, caring, and patient. Ask the students how they can learn more about God’s character and what it means to imitate it. Explain to the students that the Bible tells God’s character through stories and letters.
Introduce the service project. Remind the students that Nehemiah was building a wall which is something the people needed. Explain to the students that they are going to create something for children with special needs that they need. Tell the students that parents who have children with special needs need to have toys to help their children practice fine motor skills (explain these skills if needed). Not all families can afford these toys as they can often be expensive.
Have the students create various toys to donate to foster parents who have children with special needs. (Prior to lesson, find a foster care agency who has families that these items can be donated to). Have the students create DIY Nuts and Bolts Boards and explain the benefit this will provide children with special needs. Set up a time when the items can be delivered and have the students go with you if possible.
Additional Questions: How do children with special needs learn best about God?
Supplemental Activity: Have the students research the hands on ways that children with special needs learn best. Then, have the students create 2-3 lessons about God (with your guidance) that incorporate hands on activities that best meet their needs.