10 Ideas to Help Preschoolers Understand They Are Part of God’s Plan

Did you know, in the development of a child, their concept of God is largely formed by age 5? As you think about your preschooler right now, their view of God is being formed by your words and the experiences they have – the foundations of their minds are being laid with every new day.

How can you help young children to understand God’s huge plan for the world and their role in it? God’s plan and command to us is to “go into all the world and preach the gospel” (Mark 16:15). Children are part of God’s plan right now, not just when they grow up. This is a critical piece of our discipleship vision for children.

The best way to teach children to be “GO” (gospel and outward-focused) is for you to be actively seeking out ways for them to serve, with their family or as an Awana group. Children learn primarily by example and they will repeat what they see in us! Talk about why it is important to serve others. We serve others in love (Galatians 5:13) because Jesus was the ultimate servant. Then, be intentional in providing some opportunities to serve.

Ideas for Families of Young Children

1. Utilize the global color sheet in Parent Pause to have conversation with your child about the need for children to hear about Jesus all around the world.
2.  Draw a picture to give to community helpers or for nursing home patients.
3.  As a family assemble and mail care packages to troops overseas.
4.  Make a thank you card for the church custodian or some other person who serves behind the scenes in the church.
5.  Clean out their bookcase and toys they have “outgrown” in good condition and donate them to an organization who serves young children.
6.  As a family, help box canned goods for the local food bank or serve meals at a soup kitchen.
7.  Help a neighbor with yard work – young children can help picking up sticks!
8.  Pick up litter at a local park.
9.  Hide bags with little gifts at a playground with a note of encouragement about God’s love or paying it forward.
10.  Do a family fundraiser or encourage your child participate in your Awana club fundraiser to help kids around the world attend Awana where they will have fun and hear about Jesus. Check out some awesome stories where kids are making a difference all around the world.