Busy bags for church are simple yet powerful tools that let families worship together. They are a positive way to keep children engaged at church. Your congregation might provide coloring sheets, children’s bulletins, and crayons. But kid-friendly busy bags for church take that further.
Keep reading about busy bags and how they support learning. Plus, find tips for creating and using busy bags at church.
What Are Busy Bags for Church?
Busy bags are small, portable kits filled with enriching activities. The purpose is to let children quietly learn about Jesus. Busy bags include puzzles, coloring sheets, books, or small toys. You can tailor them to fit the day’s worship theme.
Unlike typical toys, busy bag contents are quiet and won’t distract others. The activities often have a faith-based or educational theme. They’re perfect for young children who may find it difficult to sit still long.
Why Busy Bags Are Useful
Children are naturally curious and energetic. So church services can feel long for them and for their caregivers. Busy bags:
- Encourage family worship. With busy bags, parents can bring kids to the main service. Then families can worship together.
- Reduce stress for parents. When children are occupied, parents can focus without disruptions.
- Build positive experiences. Children who associate church with engaging activities look forward to attending.
How Busy Bags Help Kids Learn
Next, busy bags are more than just distractions. They also promote learning and faith growth. Activities can reinforce Bible lessons and sermon topics. For example, coloring sheets with Bible characters, puzzles, or Scripture verses help kids connect with the day’s message.
Busy bags also support fine-motor coordination, problem-solving, and creativity. So kids are more likely to focus and concentrate during church.
Content Ideas for Busy Bags
Here are popular items that work well for church:
- Coloring sheets and crayons. Provide coloring pages with Bible stories or faith-based designs. Pair them with a small pack of crayons or colored pencils.
- Bible storybooks. Include age-appropriate illustrated stories.
- Puzzles. With biblical themes, puzzles are great for little learners.
- Felt sets. Children can create biblical scenes.
- Sticker books. Faith-themed stickers are a hit with kids! Pair them with blank sheets or activity books.
- Activity sheets. Mazes, connect-the-dots, and word searches can align with Bible lessons.
- Prayer cards. Simple prayer prompts or Scripture cards help children reflect on God’s love.
- Small, soft toys. Finger puppets, mini animals, and Bible figurines work well.
When assembling busy bags for church, consider children’s ages. For toddlers, choose simple, safe items. Avoid any choking hazards. Older kids may enjoy more complex puzzles or activities.
