3. Poppies Galore
Distribute red construction paper. To make poppies, have children follow these steps:
- Trace the bottom of a glass to make four circles.
- Cut these out, then gently crumple them.
- Open the circles and poke a green pipe cleaner through their centers as if they were beads.
- Loop the end of the pipe cleaner as a knot, and push the red paper circles toward this knot to make a poppy flower.
As kids work, tell them they’re making poppies as reminders of soldiers who died in wars. Red poppies are a symbol of Memorial Day. When the flowers are finished, pray and thank God for the people who died for your country. Encourage children to give their flowers to people after class.
Say: When you give people your poppies, ask them to tell you who they remember on Memorial Day.
4. Snack
In clear cups, layer sliced strawberries and blueberries. Finish with a dollop of whipped topping and serve to your class, reminding them to be thankful for people who are willing to die for our country.
Ask:
- Would any of you like to give your snack to a student in another class?
Say: Why were you willing to give up your treat? How’s it feel to know others will enjoy a yummy snack because of what you gave up? Soon we’ll celebrate Memorial Day. That’s when we remember all the American men and women who died serving our country. Why do you think they gave their lives?
Say: You gave up your treat so friends could enjoy something special. That’s like the men and women who gave their lives so we could enjoy living in America. God gave something special for us, too.
Read the Scripture again.
Say: God gave his Son, Jesus, so we could enjoy eternal life in heaven. As you eat your special treat, remember that many brave Americans gave their lives for our country. Let’s thank God for the wonderful sacrifice he made for us, too. Close in prayer.
Joclyn Wampler is a church volunteer in Oregon.
This Memorial Day Sunday school lesson originally appeared here.
