Preparing the Classroom

If you use very many of the lessons in this series (enough for several topics or more), it might be worthwhile to arrange a classroom to accommodate the recurring features of the lessons. Here are some things to consider:

A classroom large enough to allow for table(s) and chairs for all, a stage area for the Bible story and a game area for relay races is ideal. If no room that large is available, games can be played in another room or outdoors, weather permitting.

 Stage Area

The stage area for the Bible story could be a raised stage, but it could also just be one end of the room bordered for instance by the edge of a carpet. If the room is quite large and enough chairs are available, chairs can be arranged in rows in front of the stage as well as around the tables, and the kids can move from one area to another in the course of the lesson, but it’s not necessary. Most lessons begin around the table, then move to the stage for the Bible story and the visitor, and then move back to the table and/or play area. A music stand on or near the stage would be handy for holding the teacher’s Bible, notes and some props.

Screen

A large screen (linked to a computer) on the wall above the Bible story area can be used to show visuals, maps, memory verses and song lyrics. If one isn’t available, the visuals can be shown on a laptop screen in a smaller group. Most of the visuals included could also be drawn or lettered onto poster board if a computer and screen aren’t available.

Other Equipment

A bulletin board is convenient for posting topics, memory verses, craft projects and artwork. A chalkboard (which could be substituted with a whiteboard) is called for in many les­sons, as is an easel with a large board. A small table on the stage is also called for in many lessons. In the room there should be the following: Bibles for all, pencils, erasers, crayons, markers, chalk, paper, scissors for all, a ruler, a stapler with staples, tape, glue sticks, a low-temperature hot glue gun with the appropriate hot glue sticks, balloons, clean cloths for use as blind­folds, about 20 small, dry-bean-filled cloth sacks for throwing in games, about 20 human figures (Playmobile for instance), 2 or 3 handfulls of building blocks (Legos for instance) along with a slab foundation.

Props

The following props are used quite often in the stories: a crown, a tiara, several capes (a rich-looking one and a normal one), play money, long scarves, small square scarves (bandana size), at least one beard, a Bible-time head cloth and a walking stick.