Coloring books can be a great way to teach children about the Bible and hone their art skills as well. Biblical stories that translate well in coloring books include Cain and Abel, Jonah and the whale, Noah’s ark, Daniel and the lions, Jesus’ birth, Jesus’ baptism and Jesus walks on the water. Coloring activities can supplement and reinforce concepts introduced with scripture reading and discussion.
Children often retain ideas and concepts better if they produce something visual. To do this, teachers can introduce art crafts that can pique kids' curiosity and creativity. Creating models of characters or things in the Bible and following it up with a short discussion can help children associate visual images with the concept the Bible tries to impart. For example, children can make a small replica of Noah’s Ark, a diorama of events or peace crafts, such as wreaths and doves. The important thing is that while the children are making their crafts, the teacher should always relate their output to the lesson at hand.
Some of the most popular songs related to the Bible include “When the Saints Come Marching In,” “Pass It On,” “Onward Christian Soldiers” and “Jesus Loves the Little Children.” Children usually enjoy singing, so it is an engaging, stress-free way of introducing Bible concepts.
A great way for children to learn the scriptures is to make skits and plays about specific events in the Bible. For example, children can re-enact the events affecting Jesus' birth, or when Moses parted the sea so the children of God could escape the Egyptians. Prepare a very simple script for the children to learn and have them dress up for the performance. This simple activity can help children retain biblical lessons and concepts because they "lived" them.