The Advent theme of Joy reminds us of the happiness and celebration that filled the world when Jesus was born that first Christmas night. Teaching children about joy during Advent helps them understand that true joy comes from knowing God’s love, not just from gifts or holiday fun. Explore meaningful Bible lessons, creative activities, and hands-on crafts that help kids experience the lasting joy that comes from Jesus and share it with others throughout the Christmas season.

What is Advent?

Advent is a word that means “coming” or arrival”. Advent is a time of anticipation in the weeks leading up to Christmas, when we celebrate the arrival of Baby Jesus. Each week, a different theme is focused on to help us prepare our hearts for the Christmas season. Love, Joy, Hope, and Peace are important themes at Christmas time. Advent is a celebration of when Jesus came to earth, but we also celebrate Advent as a reminder that Jesus is coming again!

Grab your JOY Bible lesson here!

Looking for the easy way to lead an Advent Bible lesson on joy? These printable lesson plans include scripted instructions, hands-on activities, and printable crafts.

(Click HERE for the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd grade version)

Click here for the preschool/kindergarten version

Lighting the Candle of JOY

This printable advent wreath is the perfect craft to accompany lighting the advent candle each wreath. Kids will add a printable candle at each lesson.

Lighting the candle is a tradition of the Advent season. The four candles lit represent love, joy, peace, and hope. 

When lighting the Candle of Joy (or turning on an electric one), pause to remind children that joy is more than just feeling happy. Happiness can fade when circumstances change, but joy lasts because it’s rooted in God’s goodness. Happiness is a feeling, but joy is the knowledge that God is good and we can always trust Him! 

Each of the Advent Bible lessons for kids includes a printable wreath (and candle) to accompany this process. As you light the Candle of Hope with your group, you can also add the printable candle to each child’s wreath craft.

Crown of JOY Craft for Preschool

Little learners will make a joy crown that reminds them that Jesus brings joy!

Young learners will enjoy making a JOY crown to remind them of the angel’s message in Luke 2:10 - I bring you good tidings of great joy.”

Use the printable template found in the Joy Advent Lesson for Preschoolers. Have the children decorate their crowns with crayons, markers, glitter and/or stickers. Use a single-hole punch to punch a hole at each end, and then tie a string or ribbon through each end to secure it around the child’s head.

Next, have the children wear their crowns while doing a joyful freeze dance activity. Turn on some music and let them dance! 

JOY self portrait for Bigger Kids

In this joy art project, kids will make a self-portrait of themselves proclaiming the Good News of Great Joy!

In the Nativity story, the angels and shepherds had the honor of sharing the Good News of great joy - Jesus’ birth! Now, we have the privilege of sharing the Good News of Jesus with others.

Challenge older kids to create a self-portrait announcing the news of Jesus’ birth —the Good News of great joy! 

First, kids will draw and color a self-portrait using the portrait template provided in the Joy Advent Bible Lesson for Bigger Kids. After completing their self-portraits, kids will use a speech bubble template to decorate the word JOY. Then they can glue this to their self-portrait. 

This craft reminds us that the joy of Christmas is not just for us to keep to ourselves. It’s good news meant to be shared!

The Candle of Joy- Worship Songs

Music is a powerful way to help kids connect with the heart of each Advent theme. Worship songs give kids a chance to move, sing, and express what they’re learning in a memorable way.

These joyful songs are full of energy and celebration! They help kids remember that Jesus’ birth is good news for everyone and that real joy comes from knowing him. Encourage your class to sing, dance, and celebrate the good news together.

• Joyful, Joyful We Adore Thee by Lifetree Kids

• Joy to the World by Lifetree Kids

• The Joy by The Belonging Co. 

• Praise by Elevation Worship (feat. Brandon Lake, Chris Brown and Chandler Moore)

Try using the songs above to open your Sunday School lesson, during transition times, or as a way to wrap up your class with worship and celebration.

More Advent activities for Kids

• Musical Instruments: The Bible says to make a joyful noise to the Lord. So why not make musical instruments and have kids make a joyful noise in the classroom? Check out Artsy Craftsy Mom for ideas on instruments like hand drums, spoon maracas, and popsicle stick harmonicas.

• Musical Chairs: Play a simple game of musical chairs and listen to songs about joy. Encourage kids to dance and sing as they play the game!

• Pass the Parcel: Or play a game of pass the parcel. This game brings joy!

• Finger Painting Christmas Lights: Mindy Jones has a cute finger-painting craft where kids create a picture of a string of Christmas lights with the words “Joy to the World” underneath.

Are you looking for more Advent Bible Lessons to teach this Christmas?

The complete Advent Christmas Bible Lesson set includes four engaging lessons on hope, peace, joy, and love, each with printable crafts, discussion questions, and simple teacher instructions. It’s the perfect way to help kids prepare their hearts for Christmas throughout the Advent season in Sunday School or Children’s Church.

The Advent theme of Peace invites us to slow down and remember the calm and comfort that Jesus brings, even in the middle of a busy Christmas season. Teaching children about peace during Advent helps them see that true peace comes from trusting God, just as Mary and Joseph did when they learned of God’s plan. Keep reading for simple lessons, activities, and song ideas to help kids understand and experience the lasting peace that Jesus gives.

What is Advent?

Advent is a word that means “coming” or arrival”. Advent is a time of anticipation in the weeks leading up to Christmas, when we celebrate the arrival of Baby Jesus. Each week, a different theme is focused on to help us prepare our hearts for the Christmas season. Love, Joy, Hope, and Peace are important themes at Christmas time. Advent is a celebration of when Jesus came to earth, but we also celebrate Advent as a reminder that Jesus is coming again!

Easy Bible Lessons for Kids About Peace

Are you ready to lead an Advent Bible lesson on Peace this Christmas Season? These printable lessons include scripted teaching instructions, printable crafts, and hands-on activities that make planning a breeze!

(Click HERE for the Preschool/Kindergarten version!)

Click here for the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd grade version

Lighting the Candle of Peace

The printable advent wreath craft is the perfect tool to use as you light each week’s Advent candle. The printable pieces are included in every Advent Bible lesson.

Lighting the candle is a tradition of the Advent season. The four candles lit represent love, joy, peace, and hope. 

When lighting the Candle of Peace (or turning on the electric candle), take a moment to help children understand that Jesus is the Prince of Peace! Peace means trusting God even when things feel hard or scary. We know that God is in control, so we don’t have to worry. Mary and Joseph chose to trust God, even when they didn’t understand His whole plan. We can also trust that God is with us and will take care of us, not matter what happens.

Each of the Advent Bible lessons includes a printable wreath (and candle) to accompany this process. As you light the Candle of Hope, you can also add the printable candle to each child’s wreath craft.

What does the dove have to do with peace?

In the Old Testament, Noah saw a dove return to the Ark with an olive branch, showing that the storm was over and God had made the world safe again. And in the New Testament, when Jesus was baptized, God sent His Spirit to rest on Jesus like a dove, signifying His peace and love. 

That’s why we use the dove as a symbol of peace; it reminds us that Jesus came to bring peace to the world and peace to our hearts.

Handprint dove Peace Craft for Preschool

This hanging craft makes the perfect keepsake to remind littler learners that Jesus brings peace to the world.

Handprint crafts are always fun (albeit messy) for young kids. And you can even turn a handprint into the wings of a dove! 

Doves are a symbol of peace, so this craft provides a fun visual for kids to remind them that Jesus came to Earth as a baby to bring peace to the world.

For this craft, paint the child’s palm and then have them firmly press their hand onto a circular piece of paper. Once their handprint is dry, glue a dove body over it. Use a string to attach the Big ideas: Jesus brings peace to the world!

You can find the template pieces for this craft in the Peace Advent Lesson for Preschool. 

PEACE hanging mobile Craft for Bigger Kids

Bigger kids can create this craft that digs deeper into how the Bible defines peace.

Older kids will enjoy making the Peace Hanging Mobile found in the Peace Advent Lesson for Bigger Kids.

Using the template pieces provided, have kids color and cut out the four pieces of the mobile. The mobile pieces include Bible verses about peace to help kids reflect on the topic.

Use some string and a single-hole punch to attach the pieces together. Kids could hang this in their window or on their Christmas tree as a reminder that Jesus brings perfect peace.

The Candle of PEACE - Worship Songs

Music is a powerful way to help kids connect with the heart of each Advent theme. Worship songs give kids a chance to move, sing, and express what they’re learning in a memorable way.

These worship songs help children understand that true peace comes from knowing Jesus. As they sing, they’ll be reminded that Jesus calms our hearts, brings people together, and teaches us to share His peace with the world around us.

• Peace Be Still by Hope Darst

• The Blessing by Bethel Music (feat. We the Kingdom)

• It is Well By Audrey Assad

• Goodness of God by Bethel Worship (feat. Jenn Johnson)

Try using the songs above to open your Sunday School lesson, during transition times, or to wrap up your class with worship and celebration.

More Advent activities for Kids

• Paper Plate Dove: Doves are a symbol of peace in the Bible. Take some time to create these paper plate doves by Craft Project Ideas.

• “Peace on Earth” Globe Craft: While a popular craft for Earth Day, creating a simple globe being held in hands is a beautiful reminder that God holds the whole world in His hands and brings peace. Be sure to check out this simple paper plate Earth globe from Crayola.

• Peace Walk: Take a walk and challenge kids to notice things that make them feel peace, such as falling snow, a gentle breeze, or leaves rustling in the wind. Thank God for bringing peace to the world.

Are you looking for more Advent Bible Lessons to teach this Christmas?

This 4-week Advent Sunday School series helps children celebrate the true meaning of Christmas with lessons focused on hope, peace, love, and joy. Each Bible lesson includes hands-on crafts, age-appropriate discussion questions, and simple teacher instructions that make teaching easy and fun.

Teaching kids about Advent is a wonderful way to help them understand the true meaning of Christmas and prepare their hearts for Jesus’ coming. The Advent theme of hope reminds children that God always keeps His promises and that Jesus’ birth brought hope to the whole world. Through simple Bible lessons, fun activities, and meaningful discussions, you can help kids see that even when things feel uncertain, we can place our hope in God’s love and faithfulness.

What is Advent?

Advent is a word that means “coming” or arrival”. Advent is a time of anticipation in the weeks leading up to Christmas, when we celebrate the arrival of Baby Jesus. Each week, a different theme is focused on to help us prepare our hearts for the Christmas season. Love, Joy, Hope, and Peace are the central themes of Advent. Advent is a celebration of when Jesus came to earth as a baby, but we also celebrate Advent as a reminder that Jesus is coming again!

Advent Bible Lessons about Hope for Children

Are you looking for a simple way to teach the Advent theme of Hope? Be sure to check out our scripted lesson plans, discussion questions, and printable crafts. These resources are perfect for children aged 3 to 8 years old!

(Click here for the preschool/kindergarten version!)

Click here for the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd grade version

Lighting the Candle of Hope

Each week, kids will add a new Advent candle to their printable wreath craft.

Lighting a candle is part of celebrating Advent. Hope is traditionally the first candle to be lit. This candle is also called the “Prophets’ Candle”. This is fitting because Jesus fulfilled over 300 Old Testament prophecies.

When lighting the Candle of Hope, take a moment to help children understand that for years, the Israelites had been waiting for the promised Messiah. They had hope!

When we light the Hope Candle, we remember the hope the Israelites had and how Jesus is the ultimate source of hope. It’s also important to reflect on the hope we have in Jesus: a future with Him forever. 

Lighting a candle with your Sunday School class is a meaningful way to connect with the Advent season. In our class, we use a combination of electric candles in a makeshift wreath and a printable wreath craft that’s given to each child.

Each Advent Bible lesson includes a printable wreath (and candle) to accompany this process. As you light the Candle of Hope, you can also add the printable candle to each child’s wreath craft.

preschool craft - my hope is in jesus!

A simple angel craft for preschool that kids can trace and display.

Jesus is our source of hope! And in the Christmas story, angels were the messengers of hope. They tell Mary, Joseph, and the shepherds about the coming arrival of Jesus!

In this craft, found in Hope Advent Bible Lessons for Preschool, kids will make an angel to remind them that Jesus is their hope. On the angel is a traceable sentence which reads “My hope is in Jesus!” They can trace this and then decorate their angels.

Kids can hang their angel on the fridge, in the window, or on their Christmas tree to remind them of the great hope we have in Jesus!

prophecies fulfilled - a craft for Bigger Kids

In the craft for bigger kids, you will make a bible that’s filled with 3 of the Old Testament prophecies fulfilled in Jesus.

Older kids will enjoy a craft where they can examine three prophecies that were fulfilled at the time of Jesus' birth. This craft serves as an excellent springboard for conversation, helping kids learn that God kept His promises by sending Jesus. 

Using the template pieces provided in Hope Advent Bible Lessons for Older Kids, have children fold their printable Bible, then color and cut out three printable ornaments. Each ornament features a Bible verse. Glue the three ornaments into the Bible. These Bible verses are prophecies that were fulfilled.

Not only does this craft help facilitate class discussions about fulfilled prophecies, but it will also serve as a reminder to kids when they share what they've learned with their parents.

The Candle of Hope - Worship Songs

Music is a powerful way to help kids connect with the heart of each Advent theme. Worship songs give kids a chance to move, sing, and express what they’re learning in a memorable way.

These songs remind kids that our hope comes from God’s promises and the good news of Jesus’ birth. As children sing, they’ll celebrate that even when things feel uncertain, we can always trust God’s plan and look forward to what he has promised.

• Living Hope by Phil Wickham

• Way Maker by Leeland

• In Christ Alone by Keith and Kristyn Getty

• My Hope is in the Lord by Lifetree Kids

• Tis’ So Sweet to Trust in Jesus by Lifetree Kids

Try using the songs above to open your Sunday School lesson, during transition times, or as a way to wrap up your class with worship and celebration.

More Advent activities for Kids

The Candle of Hope

• Prophecy Chain: Look through the Old Testament with children and select a handful of prophecies about Jesus. Write them on strips of paper, and then attach the strips to make a paper chain.

• Flashlight Games: Jesus brings light (hope) into the world! Play some flashlight games with your children as a way to connect to the topic of light. Check out Wilwaukee with Kids for some fun ideas.

• Hope Lanterns: In keeping with the idea that Jesus brings light (hope) into the world, create some simple lanterns using jars, tissue paper, and tea lights. Decorate the outside of the jar by gluing tissue paper onto it. Then insert the tea light.

• Hope Bible Hunt: Print Bible verses about hope into slips of paper. Hide these around the room and have children search for them. As each verse is found, read it out. 

Are you looking for more Advent Bible Lessons?

This lesson is part of a four-week series about Advent that is perfect to use in the weeks leading up to Christmas. The other lessons are Love, Joy, and Peace. Each lesson includes a scripted lesson, discussion questions, and printable crafts.

Teaching the Christmas Story to kids can be so much fun! It may even be the most wonderful time of the year! This round-up blog is filled with creative ideas to bring the stories of Gabriel’s visit to Mary, Jesus' birth, the shepherds and angels, and the wise men to life. From kid-friendly videos and crafts to activities and easy-to-follow lesson plans, you'll find everything you need to make teaching the Christmas story fun, meaningful, and memorable. Whether you're teaching in Sunday school, at a faith-based school, or home, these ideas will help children connect with the true meaning of Christmas.

What is the Christmas story in the Bible?

The Christmas Story tells the events of Jesus’ birth. It begins with a long-held prophecy of His arrival and then explains His miraculous conception and humble birth in a stable. It also describes those who came to worship Him after His arrival.

In the Bible, the birth of Jesus fulfills many prophecies throughout scripture.

This story is sometimes known as the Nativity Story. The word “Nativity” means “birth.” It refers to the circumstances surrounding a person’s birth. Most commonly, people use the word ‘nativity’ to describe the birth of Jesus. 

Four print-and-go lessons that make it EASY to teach the Christmas Story.

Don’t miss these scripted lessons, printable crafts, and take-home coloring pages, which make it easy to teach the nativity story to children in preschool through third grades.

(Find the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd grade version HERE.)

Grab the Preschool/Kindergarten Version

Gabriel Visits Mary

For many people, Gabriel’s visit to Mary is the grand beginning of the Nativity story. This is the point where Mary learns that she is pregnant, and sets the story of the nativity in motion. This blog has plenty of engaging activities to help students learn this story, including reading comprehension passages, YouTube videos, and angel crafts.

Jesus is Born in Bethlehem

The birth of Jesus is the main event of the Nativity - the fulfillment of the promised Messiah. Don’t forget to talk about how Jesus wasn’t actually born in a barn, as is often depicted in Christmas stories. The Jesus is Born blog gives some great background information about Jesus’ birth. There are also many great crafts to engage kids in this story. Check out these Nativity Bible Lessons for Kids for ideas, including a traced-hand manger scene.

The Angels Visit Shepherds

Do you know why it was so significant that Jesus’ arrival was announced to shepherds first? The Shepherds and Angels blog breaks down some culturally significant background information for this story. It also has great crafts ideas and videos to accompany your lesson.

The Wise Men Visit

The story of the wise men concludes the Christmas story. When teaching about the wise men, don’t forget to tell the kids, that even though there is a Christmas song called “We Three Kings”, there might not have been three wise men. The wise men blog breaks this number down, and explains why we commonly think there were only three of them. It also has great kid-friendly ideas for teaching this nativity Bible story.

Regardless of the emphasis many put on Santa Claus, Christmas presents, and Christmas trees, the Nativity story is the central story of Christmas. Take time to teach your kids this story; they will remember it their whole lives. There are so many great activities that can make the Nativity engaging for preschool and elementary-aged kids.

Teaching children about The Wise Men’s Visit to Jesus can be a fun and meaningful way to explore the Christmas story. This Christmas Bible story offers a chance to introduce kids to the journey of the Magi, their gifts, and the significance of their visit in a way that captures their imagination. In this blog, you’ll find ideas for engaging videos, simple crafts, printable worksheets, and easy-to-follow lesson plans. Whether you're a teacher, parent, or children's ministry leader, these ideas are perfect for making the story of the Wise Men accessible and enjoyable for kids.

The Story of the Wise Men

Matthew 2:1-12 tells the story of the Wise Men. Wise men from the East saw a star appear in the sky. Knowing this star meant the arrival of the King of the Jews, they traveled to Jerusalem. They went to King Herod and asked where the new king was.

Herod was troubled by this and asked the chief priests where the Messiah was to be born. They told him that Christ would be born in Bethlehem. Herod sent the wise men to Bethlehem to find the child and send word of the child’s location. 

The wise men found Jesus and presented him with gifts: gold, frankincense, and myrrh. But they did not return to Herod because they had been warned in a dream. Herod was furious and had all the baby boys under the age of two in Bethlehem and the surrounding region killed. But God told Joseph in a dream, so they fled to Egypt.

The Story of the Wise Men - Bible Lessons for Kids

Are you looking for an easy way to teach about the wise men this Christmas? Grab a scripted lesson and printable craft that is perfect for kids aged 3-8.

(Check out the preschool/kindergarten version HERE!)

shop the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd grade version

Background Information about the Wise Men and Star

Many Christmas cards, stories, and Nativity scenes have the wise men arriving while Jesus is still in the manger. However, this isn’t how the Bible describes it. The wise men visited Jesus in a house. It was a while after Jesus was born, so he was probably a toddler.

Stories and songs like “We Three Kings” have led many people to believe there were three wise men who visited Jesus. But again, this is not how the Bible describes it. We don’t know how many wise men there were. The Bible does tell us there were three gifts given to Jesus, and this is where many people assume that there were also three wise men.

Printable Bible Lessons and Crafts - The Wise Men

For an easy way to teach the Christmas story about wise men, use our print-and-go lessons. These engaging lessons need almost no preparation and include a scripted lesson plan, a printable craft or activity, and a take-home worksheet to keep caregivers in the loop.

A Sparkly Star Craft for Preschool

A sparkly star Christmas craft for preschool and kindergarten. 

A Star in the Sky is the perfect craft for preschool-aged kids. In this printable craft, kids will create a sparkling star using glitter to make the star sparkle. It’s a great way to help little learners get hands-on with the star in our story. The star pointed the wise men towards Jesus. Tell students that when they look at their sparkly star, they can remember Jesus and the big rescue plan God made through His son.

Star Ornament Craft for Bigger Kids

Kids in 1st, 2nd, and 3rd grades will love this 3D star ornament that can be hung on their Christmas tree or on their fridge at home. For step-by-step instructions and a star template, check out ‘The Wise Men.’ Just like the wise men used the star to find Jesus, your students can look at the star on their Christmas tree and be reminded of the real reason for the season!

More Wise Men and Star Crafts

• Creative Station has a step-by-step paper plate craft where kids create a silhouette of wise men in a desert scene. By attaching a popsicle stick to the bottom of the wise men's silhouette, kids can move the wise men across the desert.

• This paper plate crown from the Meaningful Mama is a cute idea to help kids remember the story of Jesus and the wise men.

• If you desire to use paint, this hand-print-wisemen craft from the Parenting Patch is perfect for preschool-aged kids!

Reading about the Nativity

Reading the nativity story directly from the Bible is a great way to help older kids dive deeper. This reading activity looks at eight key symbols from the traditional Christmas story. It includes passages from the Bible, comprehension questions, and a final craft to tie it all together.

CHRISTMAS WORKSHEETS

For easy printable activities, check out Christmas Morning Work for Kindergarten or these Bible-based Christmas worksheets for older kids.

YouTube videos about the Wise Men

• Saddleback Kids has a video about Jesus and the Wise Men.

• Here’s another video by Saddleback Kids that animates Matthew 2:1-14

• For a 30-minute show of the whole Nativity story, check out The Beginner’s Bible “The Nativity”.

NEED MORE CHRISTMAS LESSONS?

Want to continue the series? This lesson is part of a four-lesson set designed to be taught in the weeks before Christmas. 

The story of the wise men brings a close to the Christmas story, but it’s more of a punctuation mark in the grand story of Jesus. It’s a story of wonder, excitement, danger, and celebration. Enjoy teaching it to your kids!

The Christmas Bible story of the Shepherds and Angels is a joyful story that helps get kids excited about the Christmas season. This story highlights the angelic announcement to the shepherds and their journey to meet the newborn Savior, making it perfect for keeping younger kids engaged. There are plenty of creative ideas for kid-friendly videos, fun crafts, interactive worksheets, and easy-to-follow lesson plans that bring this story to life.

The Story of the shepherds and the angels

“Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests”. These famous words are sung in various forms in Christmas songs during the holiday season and come from the story of the angels appearing to the shepherds.

Luke 2:8-20 tells the story of the Shepherds and Angels. The shepherds were in the fields near Bethlehem, watching their flocks at night. Suddenly, a heavenly host of angels appeared to them. They told the shepherds of the arrival of the newborn Jesus. The shepherds immediately went to find Jesus and spread the word about him.

The Shepherds and Angels Bible Lessons

Are you looking for an easy way to teach about the Angel’s Visit to Shepherds? Grab a scripted lesson and printable craft perfect for 3-8-year-olds.

(See the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd Grade Version HERE!)

Shop the Preschool/Kindergarten version

Background Information About The Shepherds

Shepherds were considered among the lowest people in society. Given that culture was based on status, this meant that most people looked down on shepherds. Yet, despite this, God chose the shepherds to be the first people to hear about Jesus. This is a beautiful reminder that God doesn’t care what society says about people. God thinks everyone is important!

Printable Crafts: The Shepherds and Angels

For a simple way to teach this Christmas Bible story, use our print-and-go lessons about the angels and shepherds.   These engaging lessons need almost no preparation and include a scripted lesson plan, a printable craft or activity, and a take-home worksheet to keep caregivers in the loop.

Pasture Scene Christmas Craft for Preschool

A printable Christmas craft for preschool and kindergarten. 

This printable Stars in the Sky craft is perfect for preschool. Kids will cut and paste the shepherds and angels onto the background. Then use stickers to decorate the night sky above the shepherds and their sheep.

Sheep Craft for Older Kids

A printable Bible craft for kids in 1st, 2nd, and 3rd grades. 

Your 1st, 2nd, and 3rd graders will love this sheep made from folding paper like a fan. Using the template pieces provided in the bigger kids Bible lesson, kids will assemble a little sheep by accordion-folding a strip of paper and affixing the head and tail pieces to either end of the folded paper.

More Shepherd, Sheep, and Angel Crafts

• Be sure to check out my blog post “Gabriel and Mary - The Christmas Story” for several fabulous angel craft ideas, including a hand-print angel.

• Trueway Kids has a cute shepherd craft, with an accompanying YouTube instructions video.

• For a more involved, probably multi-day craft, check out this Christmas story craft idea from Let Their Light Shine.

Reading about the Nativity

Reading about the Symbols of the Nativity Story might help older kids make connections and form a deeper understanding of the story. This lesson includes reading from the Bible, comprehension questions, and a final craft to tie it all together.

YouTube videos about the shepherds and angels

• Saddleback Kids has a short video about Jesus and the Shepherds.

• Crossroads Kids’ Club has a great video describing how Jesus’ birth is part of God’s great story. It dives into the Old Testament with information about sin entering the world and how Jesus was part of God’s plan to fight sin. This video also includes an angel appearing to Mary, an angel appearing to Joseph, and the heavenly host appearing to shepherds.

• Crossroad Kids’ Club lands it again with another great video called Storytellers: Shepherds and Baby Jesus. This video describes why shepherds were so important, even though many people looked down on them. 

• For a 30-minute show of the whole Nativity story, check out The Beginner’s Bible “The Nativity”.

NEED MORE CHRISTMAS LESSONS?

Want to continue the series? This lesson is part of a four-lesson set designed to be taught in the weeks before Christmas.

The shepherds were the first people to meet Jesus and worship him. This is a wonderful story to invite students into worshiping Jesus too. Whether in Sunday School, in a faith-based school, or at home, there are plenty of ways to engage students in the Nativity story.

Teaching the Christmas Bible story, Jesus is Born, to kids is a heartwarming way to share the true meaning of Christmas. This beloved nativity story captures the miracle of Jesus’ birth and provides a wonderful opportunity for children to learn about God’s love in a fun, engaging way. There are plenty of creative teaching ideas, kid-friendly videos, interactive crafts, and simple activities to help children understand and remember the significance of the Nativity.

The Story

Luke 2 records the story of Jesus’ birth. Mary and Joseph traveled to Bethlehem near the end of Mary’s pregnancy because they had to register for the census. While there, the time came for Mary to have the baby. When Jesus was born, Mary laid him in a manger because there was no guest room available for them. 

‘Jesus is Born’ Bible Lesson

Are you looking for an easy way to teach about the birth of Jesus? Grab the scripted lessons and printable craft that is just perfect for kids!

(See the Preschool/Kindergarten Version HERE)

SHOP THE 1ST, 2ND, AND 3RD GRADE VERSION

Background Information About the Birth of Jesus

We celebrate Christmas (AKA the birth of Jesus) on December 25, but this is probably not the actual day Jesus was born. The Roman Catholic Church started celebrating Christmas on December 25 in 336 CE to replace a pagan holiday, and we continue to celebrate Christmas on this day.

Many people know the story of Jesus being born in a stable, but the Bible doesn’t say this. It says Mary lay him in a manager because there was no guest room available. In Bethlehem, people did not use wooden stables, like those so often depicted in books and movies. They kept their animals in caves or the lower level of their homes. So it is more likely that Mary gave birth in a cave or the lower level of a house where animals were kept.

Printable Manger Crafts

Dive into this Christmas Bible story with our print-and-go lessons about Jesus’ birth.  These engaging lessons need almost no preparation and include a scripted lesson plan, a printable craft or activity, and a take-home worksheet to keep caregivers in the loop.

Manger Scene Craft for Preschoolers

A Christmas Bible craft for preschoolers. 

For a simple cut-and-paste manger scene, check out ‘Jesus is Born' for preschoolers. Using the template pieces provided, kids will assemble a simple manger with Jesus lying on the hay.

Manger Scene Craft for Bigger Kids

A Christmas Bible craft for 6, 7, and 8-year-olds. 

For 1st, 2nd and 3rd-graders, this traced-hands manger scene is perfect. Kids will trace their hands and arrange the handprints to form the hay of the manger. Then Jesus will be laid atop the hay.

More Crafts for the Birth of Jesus

• Check out No Time for Flashcards’ nativity scene. Kids will cut out various shapes and arrange them to form the nativity scene.

• This Popsicle Stick Manger by The Keeper of the Cheerios is a classic kids’ craft.

• For a more preschool-friendly version of the popsicle stick manger, don’t miss this nativity craft from the Farmhouse Mama.

Reading about the Nativity

Reading about the symbols of the Nativity Story might help older kids make connections and form a deeper understanding of the story. This set of Bible-based reading passages, comprehension questions, and final craft looks at the Biblical story of Christmas and focuses on the main characters and symbols found within.

CHRISTMAS WORKSHEETS

For easy printable activities, check out Christmas Morning Work for Kindergarten or these Bible-based Christmas worksheets for older kids.

YouTube videos about the story of Jesus’ Birth

• Saddleback Kids has a short video about the birth of Jesus.

• This is another Saddleback Kids video that animates Luke 2:1-20.

• Crossroads Kids’ Club has a great video describing how Jesus’ birth is part of God’s great story. It dives into the Old Testament with information about sin entering the world and how Jesus was part of God’s plan to fight sin. This video includes an angel appearing to Mary, an angel appearing to Joseph, and the heavenly host appearing to shepherds.

• Don’t miss The Birth of Jesus by Minno—Bible Stories for Kids. This video discusses the Old Testament promises God made to Abraham and how Jesus is the promised Messiah.

• For a 30-minute show of the whole Nativity story, check out The Beginner’s Bible “The Nativity”.

NEED MORE CHRISTMAS LESSONS?

Want to continue the series? This lesson is part of a four-lesson set designed to be taught in the weeks before Christmas.

The story of Jesus’ birth is the pinnacle of Christmas. Whether the teaching is happening in Sunday School, faith-based schools, or at home, these ideas will help learning the Nativity story more fun and memorable for kids.

Teaching the Bible story of the angel Gabriel's Visit to Mary to kids is a wonderful way to introduce them to the joy and wonder of God's plan. This powerful Christmas Bible story of the angel Gabriel announcing the birth of Jesus to Mary offers rich opportunities for engaging lessons, creative crafts, and hands-on activities that bring the message to life. In this post, you’ll find simple yet effective teaching ideas, fun crafts, and easy-to-follow lesson plans that can be used in Sunday School, in faith-based schools, or at home. These ideas will engage children while helping them understand the significance of Mary's faith and obedience to God's plan.

The Christmas bible Story - Gabriel and Mary

Luke 1:26-38 tells the story of Gabriel’s visit to Mary. Mary was a virgin and had been promised to marry a man named Joseph. Gabriel, an angel from God, appeared to her and told Mary she would give birth to God’s Son. Gabriel told her that she was to name the baby Jesus. Mary marveled at the angel’s words and trusted God.

The EASY way to teach this Christmas Bible lesson.

Are you ready to lead a Bible lesson on Mary’s visit from the angel Gabriel? Click to grab our scripted lesson plans, discussion questions, and printable crafts.

Grab the preschool/kindergarten version here.

grab the 1st-3rd grade version.

background information about Mary and Gabriel

While it might not be appropriate to go into the details and definition of the word ‘virgin’ depending on your teaching context, there are some other interesting things about this story to teach the kids.

• Women in Bible times were married young, so Mary was likely a teenager when Gabriel appeared to her. 

• Gabriel is an angel. Angel means ‘messenger’. Gabriel appears three other times in the Bible - twice to Daniel (Daniel 8:15-26 and Daniel 9:21-27), and he appears to Zechariah in Luke 1:11-22. He might have appeared more, but the angels go unnamed in other Bible stories.

printable Christmas crafts

Dive into this Christmas Bible story with our print-and-go lessons about Mary’s visit from the angel Gabriel.  These engaging lessons need almost no preparation and include a scripted lesson plan, a printable craft or activity, and a take-home worksheet to keep caregivers in the loop.

Angel Craft for Preschool

A printable angel craft for preschoolers and kindergarten students. 

Create a simple angel by tracing hands and using the hand-prints as wings. For easy instructions and templates for the craft, check out ‘An Angel Visits Mary’ Bible lesson for preschool and kindergarten.

Angel Craft for Bigger Kids

A printable Christmas angel craft for bigger kids. 

Your kids in 1st, 2nd, and 3rd grade will love this printable angel craft. Use the template pieces provided in ‘An Angel Visits Mary’ (the bigger kids’ version) and have kids cut and assemble the angel.

more bible christmas crafts

The following crafts and activities would pair nicely with a Christmas Bible lesson that touches on this part of the nativity story.

• For a similar craft, including video instructions, check out The Little Crafties “How to Make Paper Christmas Angel Craft”

• Crafty Morning has a cute idea for Paper Plate Christmas Angels. Be sure to check out her website for step-by-step instructions. This craft is appropriate for both preschool kids and older kids.

• For another simple angel craft, check out Our Kid Things’ “Cupcake Liner Angel Craft”.

YouTube Videos about the story of Mary

These YouTube videos are a great way to help your kids understand the story in a whole new way. As always, please watch the video(s) in their entirety before showing them to your class.

• This video by Crossroads Kids’ Club is a detailed introduction to Mary. The video includes information about who she is, Gabriel’s visit, and how she cared for Jesus as he grew. The story goes into more depth than just the story of Mary and Gabriel, but kids might find this information interesting. Most importantly, this video points to Jesus!

• This Saddleback Kids video depicts the story of Mary and Gabriel. It also includes information about Mary and Joseph.

• For a 30-minute show of the whole Nativity story, check out The Beginner’s Bible “The Nativity”.

Need more Christmas lessons?

Want to continue the series? This lesson is part of a four-lesson set designed to be taught in the weeks before Christmas.