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Easter is one of the biggest celebrations that will happen at your church each year which means it is a great to to host family Easter activities. It’s a time to celebrate the resurrection of Jesus and the hope it brings to the world. It’s also a time to bring families together in worship, fun, and community. For churches, Easter offers a unique opportunity to create meaningful and memorable experiences for families while sharing the message of Jesus’ love.

5 Family Easter Activities You Can Host At Your Church

If you’re looking for ways to engage families and have an Easter celebration at your church, here are five creative and impactful ideas to celebrate Easter at your church. Whether your congregation is large or small, these activities can help bring families closer to one another—and to the true meaning of Easter.

1. Organize an Easter Egg Hunt Activity with a Purpose

Easter egg hunts are a classic family tradition, and they can be a fantastic way to welcome families to your church.

Here are some ideas to make your Easter egg hunt more impactful:

• Tell the Easter story through eggs: Fill eggs with small items that represent parts of the Easter story, such as a cross, a crown of thorns, or a tiny stone for the empty tomb. Include a short explanation for each symbol, and encourage families to discuss them as they hunt.
• Include Bible verses or encouragement notes: Write or print short Bible verses or encouraging notes to include in the eggs alongside the candy.
• Offer age-specific hunts: To make the event fun for everyone, create separate egg hunts for different age groups. This ensures that older kids can enjoy a challenge while younger ones can participate at their own pace.
• Sensory-friendly options: For children with sensory sensitivities, provide a quiet and less chaotic environment. Use brightly colored eggs and allow families to hunt at their own pace.

After the hunt, invite families to stay for refreshments and a short gathering that ties the activity back to the resurrection story. Use this time to introduce families to your church’s children’s programs or upcoming events.

2. Family Easter Activity Prayer Walk

For families looking to reflect on the meaning of Easter, a prayer walk is an excellent way to connect with the story of Jesus’ resurrection. Transform your church campus or a local park into a self-guided prayer walk with interactive stations that allow families to experience the Easter story together.

Here’s how you can structure the prayer walk:

• Station 1: The Last Supper
  Set up a table with bread and juice to symbolize the Last Supper. Provide a short reading or audio recording of the Scripture passage (Luke 22:14–20) and invite families to reflect on the significance of Jesus sharing a meal with His disciples.
• Station 2: The Garden of Gethsemane
  Create a quiet space with plants or greenery to represent the garden. Include a reading of Matthew 26:36–46 and encourage families to pray together, asking God for strength during challenging times.
• Station 3: The Cross
  Place a wooden cross at this station and offer families small pieces of paper and pens to write down sins, burdens, or fears. Provide a basket where they can leave their papers, symbolizing leaving their struggles at the cross.
• Station 4: The Empty Tomb
  Decorate this station with an open tomb and an angel figure. Read Matthew 28:1–10 and invite families to celebrate the hope and joy of the resurrection.

To enhance the experience, provide a guide with prompts and prayers for each station. This prayer walk allows families to slow down, reflect, and experience the Easter story in a meaningful and personal way. 

To make this activity age appropriate, you could include phase prompts at each station, letting families know how to do the activity with preschoolers, elementary-aged kids or middle or high school students. This will help kids and teenagers have an experience that is broken down for them to engage with and understand.

3. Host a Family Craft and Storytime Activity

For families with young children, a craft and storytime event can be a delightful and meaningful way to celebrate Easter. This activity combines creativity, hands-on fun, and an opportunity to share the Easter story in a way that’s engaging for kids and parents alike.

Here’s how you can structure the event:

Craft Time

Set up stations where families can work on Easter-themed crafts together. Include options like:

• Resurrection gardens: Provide small pots, soil, grass seeds, and miniature crosses for families to create their own resurrection gardens. These can serve as a visual reminder of the empty tomb and new life in Jesus.
• Easter egg painting: Offer wooden or plastic eggs that kids can paint and decorate with stickers, glitter, and markers.
• Cross crafts: Use popsicle sticks, beads, or foam to create decorative crosses that families can hang in their homes.
• Prayer jars: Provide jars, paper slips, and markers for families to write down prayers of gratitude or requests, which they can continue to add to after Easter.

Storytime

After the crafts, gather families for a storytelling session focused on the Easter story. Use props, graphics, or illustrated storybooks to make the narrative come alive for children. A few tips for impactful storytelling:

• Keep the story interactive by asking questions or letting kids guess what happens next.
• Incorporate songs or short rhymes that emphasize key parts of the story.
• Use visuals like pictures or a short video to illustrate the resurrection story.

Snacks and Fellowship

Wrap up the event with Easter-themed snacks like bunny-shaped cookies, cupcakes with crosses, or fruit platters. This provides an opportunity for families to connect with each other.

By offering a craft and storytime event, you create a welcoming environment where families can engage in meaningful conversations, have intentional time together as a family, and grow in their understanding of the Easter message. This is a great alternative event for families with young children who may not sit through a service or full event.

4. Plan a Serve Together Project

Easter is not only a time for celebration but also an opportunity to live out the message of Jesus’ love through acts of service. Organizing a family-friendly service project allows families to connect with one another while making a difference in the community.

Here are a few ideas for a service project:

• Easter care packages: Families can assemble care packages filled with hygiene items, non-perishable snacks, and handwritten notes of encouragement. Distribute these packages to shelters or individuals in need.
• Cards for seniors: Provide art supplies and encourage families to create Easter cards for residents of local nursing homes or assisted living facilities. 
• Food drive: Partner with a local food bank to collect non-perishable items. Challenge families to bring donations and sort them together during the event.
• Neighborhood cleanup: Equip families with gloves and trash bags to clean up a local park or neighborhood as a way to give back to the community.

By serving together, families can tangibly demonstrate Jesus’ love to others. This creates a lasting impact on both the community and their own hearts.

5. Host an Easter Jam Event

If you’re looking for an exciting, high-energy way to celebrate Easter, look no further than Easter Jam! This family experience is designed to bring joy, laughter, and connection while sharing the powerful story of Easter in a fun and engaging way.

Here’s what makes Easter Jam so special:

• Games and activities: Easter Jam is filled with interactive games that get families laughing and working together. These activities are perfect for all ages and make for an unforgettable experience.
• Creative storytelling: The Easter story is shared in a dynamic way that captures the attention of kids and adults alike. Through visuals, props, and relatable messaging, families can better understand the hope of Jesus’ resurrection.
• Music and worship: Uplifting music is a core part of Easter Jam, with songs that inspire joy and celebration. Consider involving your children’s choir or worship band.
• Community building: Easter Jam provides a space for families to connect with one another and with your church. It’s an egg-cellent opportunity to invite first-time guests and make them feel at home.

You can download a free Easter Jam event kit here. This event kits includes everything you need to plan and execute an unforgettable event. Your families will be so egg-cited to attend!

Easter is a time of renewal, celebration, and hope. By offering unique and meaningful family Easter activities, your church can help families connect with the true meaning of Easter while creating memories and space for them to connect not only with their family but with others.

Whether it’s gathering for an egg hunt, reflecting on the resurrection through a prayer walk, or sharing laughter at Easter Jam, these family Easter activities offer something for everyone. As your church plans its Easter events, remember that the ultimate goal is to share the message of God’s love and the hope found in Jesus’ resurrection.

Ready to host Easter Jam at your church? Download the free event kit here and start planning today!

The post 5 Family Easter Activities You Can Host At Your Church appeared first on Think Orange.

Get to know the 252 Sunday School Curriculum

A well-structured Sunday school curriculum is essential for teaching children about the Bible and Jesus Christ. It provides a systematic approach to learning, helping kids build a strong foundation in their faith.

An effective Sunday school curriculum should be engaging, interactive, and tailored to the specific age group it’s designed for. It should also align with Christian values and principles, offering opportunities for kids to ask questions and explore their faith in a safe environment.

If you’re shopping for a Sunday school curriculum, it’s crucial to consider the unique needs and goals of your children’s ministry. No two churches are the same!

Look for a curriculum that is specifically designed for your age group and aligns with your church’s values and mission. Additionally, a good curriculum should come with comprehensive teaching resources and support for Sunday school teachers, enabling them to effectively communicate the lessons to their students.

Why 252? A Curriculum for the Curious Kid

The 252 curriculum is designed to make Sunday school a time where kids not only learn Bible stories but also connect with God’s truth in a personal way through interactive lessons.

We understand that elementary-aged children need more than just teaching—they need interactive learning tools that help them understand and apply what they learn.

With 252, we focus on three key principles that guide children in their spiritual journey:

Wisdom:

Teaching kids to make wise choices based on God’s Word.

Faith:

Helping kids trust God no matter what.

Friendship:

Encouraging kids to treat others the way they want to be treated.

These principles are woven throughout every lesson, helping children understand not only what the Bible says but how it applies to their everyday lives.

252 Compared to Other Sunday School Curriculum

There are various types of Sunday school curriculums available, each with its own unique approach. Some, like 252, are written for specific age groups, while others are more flexible and can be adapted to different age groups.

• Bible-based curriculums: These focus on teaching kids about the Bible and its stories, helping them understand the core messages and lessons.
• Character-based curriculums: These emphasize important values and character traits, guiding kids to develop virtues like kindness, honesty, and respect.
• Activity-based curriculums: These engage kids through interactive activities and games, making learning fun and memorable.
• Story-based curriculums: These use storytelling and narrative to teach kids, making biblical lessons relatable and easy to understand.

The 252 curriculum pulls in the best of each of these approaches to help meet the specific needs and goals of your children’s ministry, as well as the preferences and values of your church.

Teaching Tools That Make a Difference

With 252, Sunday school teachers don’t just tell Bible stories—they bring them to life.

Our curriculum is packed with teaching resources, including videos, graphics, and interactive activities that help engage kids in learning.

Story Lab: Making the Bible Real

One of the signature features of 252 is Story Lab, an engaging video series that uses STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) concepts to illustrate virtues and principles.

Story Lab is more than a typical Sunday school lesson—it connects real-world experiences to faith, showing kids how God is present in every aspect of their lives. This hands-on approach encourages curiosity and helps kids see that the Bible isn’t just an old book—it’s a guide for living life today.

Story Lab takes common concepts from school subjects like science and technology and uses them to explain biblical truths in a way that resonates with kids. For example, using the concept of gravity to illustrate how God’s love is a constant force in our lives.

Orange’s media package also includes the So&So Show, a dynamic series that engages pre-teens through humor, storytelling, and relatable content, making Bible lessons come alive in a way that is both meaningful and fun.

By connecting what children are already learning in school with what they are discovering in Sunday school, Story Lab and The So&So Show helps bridge the gap between faith and everyday life, making it especially impactful for both elementary-aged children and pre-teens.

This approach not only keeps kids engaged but also helps them retain what they learn, making their Sunday school experience more impactful.

Small Groups for Big Growth

252 encourages the use of small groups in children’s ministry.

Small group settings allow kids to ask questions, share their thoughts, and connect more deeply with the Bible lessons. It’s in these small groups where relationships are built—with peers, Sunday school teachers, and ultimately with Jesus.

Small groups help take the lesson beyond information and turn it into transformation.

Small groups are also a place where Sunday school teachers can provide individualized attention to each child. Whether it’s answering questions, providing encouragement, or praying with the kids, small groups create an environment where children feel seen, heard, and valued.

This personal connection is key to helping kids grow in their faith and feel a sense of belonging within the church community.

It’s often in these moments that the most significant spiritual growth happens, as kids feel safe to explore their faith and express their thoughts.

Music and Movement

—and that’s why our worship music is a core part of every lesson.

Each week, kids sing along to worship songs designed specifically for their age group, learning about God through movement and music. Our carefully curated playlists help reinforce the messages taught in each lesson, making it easier for children to remember and apply what they learn.

Music is a powerful tool for teaching kids about God. The songs in 252 are not only fun and energetic but also filled with meaningful lyrics that teach important biblical truths.

Whether it’s a high-energy song that gets kids jumping and dancing or a slower, reflective song that helps them think about God’s love, music is an essential part of helping kids connect emotionally and spiritually with the lesson.

And it’s not just about Sunday morning—kids often take these songs home, singing them throughout the week, which reinforces what they learned in Sunday school.

A Strategy That Connects Church and Home

One of the things that sets 252 apart from other children’s ministry curriculums is its strategic connection between church and home.

We know that children’s ministry leaders and Sunday school teachers get limited time with kids each week—but parents and guardians have countless opportunities to make an impact.

That’s why 252 includes tools like our Parent Cue app to help parents continue faith-based conversations at home:

Parent Cue: A Bridge Between Sunday and the Week Ahead

With the Parent Cue app, parents receive daily cues, conversation prompts, and activity suggestions that align with what their kids are learning in Sunday school.

This means that when kids go home, the lessons don’t stop. Parents can reinforce what their children learned at church, making the home a place where faith is nurtured and strengthened.

Parent Cue helps parents feel more confident in their role as spiritual leaders in their children’s lives. It provides them with simple, practical ways to incorporate faith into their daily routines—whether it’s during a car ride, at bedtime, or around the dinner table.

By equipping parents with these tools, 252 ensures that what happens on Sunday is carried into the rest of the week, creating a consistent and holistic approach to faith development.

Ready-to-Use Teaching Resources for Sunday School Teachers

We know that preparing Sunday school lessons can be time-consuming. That’s why 252 provides comprehensive children’s ministry resources that make planning easier for you and your team.

Each Sunday school lesson comes with full teaching scripts, videos, activity instructions, and printable resources—including activity pages and small group discussion guides.

Whether you’re new to teaching or a seasoned Sunday school teacher, 252 has everything you need to make your Sunday school curriculum engaging and impactful.

252 also includes training resources for Sunday school teachers. We want to empower you and your team to feel confident in your roles as leaders and educators.

From video tutorials on how to use the curriculum effectively to guides on managing small group dynamics, 252 is designed to support you every step of the way.

When your teachers feel prepared and equipped, they can focus more on building relationships and making a lasting impact on the kids in their care.

What Children’s Ministry Leaders Are Saying About 252

“I can’t imagine doing ministry without Orange as a partner! They allow us to minister to families and kids and take care of all the details and make us shine each week! I love the monthly themes and the flexibility you have with how you share the gospel any week!”
– Jody Shelton

“I am coming from a public school teacher turned kid ministry perspective and the Orange curriculum is engaging, current, and interactive! Our kids love it.”
– Susan Bishara

“I’ve consulted with churches across the country about how to improve the effectiveness of their children’s ministry. Let me tell you, the Orange strategy works.”
– Sue Miller

Engage Every Child in Your Children’s Ministry

Elementary-aged kids and pre-teens are ready to learn, grow, and explore—and 252 is designed to meet them where they are.

Our curriculum for elementary helps kids learn about God in a way that’s interactive, fun, and memorable. From large group worship and teaching to small group discussions and activities, 252 creates a Sunday school environment that is exciting, relational, and spiritually impactful.

With 252, you’re not just teaching Bible lessons—you’re helping kids develop a lasting relationship with God. The combination of engaging media, small group interaction, and strategic connection with parents makes 252 a curriculum that truly transforms lives.

It’s about more than just learning—it’s about living out faith every day.

Try 252 for Free

If you’re ready to see the difference that an engaging, strategy-driven curriculum can make, we invite you to try 252 for yourself.

Get a free one-month trial of 252 and discover how it can transform your Sunday school into a place where kids grow in faith, have fun, and learn how to live out what they believe.

This isn’t just a set of free Sunday school lessons; it’s a transformational strategy that helps you teach kids how to live out their faith.

Try 252 Curriculum For Free

The post 252: The Church Curriculum for Elementary to Elevate Your Sunday School appeared first on Think Orange.

First Look curriculum is more than just a set of preschool Bible lessons—it’s a complete, age-appropriate strategy designed to nurture a lasting and everyday faith in your preschoolers.

Through the use of creative media, developmentally tailored teaching, and intentional connection between the church and home, First Look can help make your Sunday school the place preschool kids love. First Look can turn your preschool environments to a place kids run to for the best hour of their week.

A Curriculum That Puts Preschoolers First

We understand that young children are at a unique stage in their faith journey—filled with wonder and curiosity. First Look is specially crafted to help teach kids at this pivotal phase in life.

Our preschool Sunday school lessons combine child psychology, theology, and a dynamic media package to engage and captivate preschoolers every week.

Here’s what sets First Look apart:

World-Class Media to Capture Every Child’s Attention

We live in an age where kids are constantly entertained. Whether it’s with videos, interactive apps, or games, preschoolers are used to engaging, high-quality content. First Look delivers the same level of engaging material right in your Sunday school classroom.

With First Look, you receive full teaching videos, vibrant graphics, and carefully curated worship music, all tailored specifically for preschool kids. These resources are not just designed to entertain—they are structured to help each child understand biblical truths, remember Bible stories, and learn how to apply them to their lives.

Imagine your preschoolers moving, singing, and laughing as they connect with the story of Jesus and the love of God—this is what our First Look media package can achieve.

Our media package also includes seasonal content that can be used during special times of the year, such as the Christmas season or Easter. These special lessons are designed to make holidays even more meaningful for preschoolers, helping them understand the deeper significance of these celebrations in a fun and accessible way.

By incorporating vibrant visuals and catchy songs, First Look ensures that preschool kids are excited to come to church and learn more about Jesus, even during busy holiday seasons.

Age-Appropriate Lessons Built on Development and Faith

Preschool is a time of rapid development—emotionally, mentally, and spiritually. That’s why First Look isn’t just about what to teach, but also about how to teach in a way that meets children exactly where they are.

Each lesson is intentionally designed to align with the emotional and cognitive abilities of preschoolers, making it possible for them to understand, retain, and love learning about Jesus.

First Look lessons are filled with activities that help preschoolers learn by doing. Whether it’s acting out a Bible story, creating a take-home craft that ties into the lesson, or playing a game that reinforces a key concept, each activity is designed to engage young learners in a way that is developmentally appropriate.

These hands-on experiences help preschoolers internalize the lessons and understand how they relate to their own lives.

Wonder with Ollie

One of the standout components of First Look is Wonder with Ollie.

Preschool kids naturally wonder about the world around them, and Ollie—our friendly animated owl—guides them through colorful storytelling, and interactive elements that tap into that sense of wonder. Each episode helps preschoolers learn about God’s love and His amazing creation in a way that’s approachable, fun, and engaging.

Wonder with Ollie also helps create a sense of consistency for preschoolers. Each week, they look forward to seeing Ollie and hearing what new story he has to share. This familiarity helps build a sense of trust and excitement, making Sunday school a highlight of their week.

Each Bible story lesson is crafted to be short, engaging, and memorable—perfect for young attention spans.

Bring the Bible to Life

First Look preschool Bible lessons aren’t just about memorizing Bible stories—they’re about making those stories real to preschoolers.

We take foundational stories from the Old Testament and New Testament, and teach them in ways that preschool kids can understand, relate to, and love. By using active storytelling, visuals, and small group activities, each lesson helps bring the story of Jesus Christ and His love to life in a way that is tangible and memorable.

Each lesson includes opportunities for small group interactions, allowing preschoolers to ask questions and share their thoughts. These small group moments are crucial for reinforcing the lesson and helping children understand how it applies to their lives.

Small group leaders are equipped with prompts and questions that encourage preschoolers to think about what they learned and how they can live it out during the week. This approach helps bridge the gap between hearing a Bible story and understanding its relevance in everyday life.

Connect Church to Home with the Parent Cue App

Sunday school is just the beginning. Parents are the primary faith leaders for their children, and we understand the importance of empowering them to continue the Bible lessons throughout the week.

That’s why First Look includes resources like activity pages, conversation prompts, and our Parent Cue app. Parent Cue gives parents easy-to-follow activities and questions that align with the Sunday lesson—so when they’re driving in the car, or sitting at the dinner table, they have everything they need to keep the conversation about Jesus going all week long.

Parent Cue also provides parents with additional content such as short videos, articles, and tips to help them feel confident in nurturing their child’s faith journey.

We know that parenting can be challenging, and Parent Cue is there to offer support and encouragement. By giving parents the tools they need, First Look helps create a partnership between church and home, ensuring that faith development is a consistent part of a child’s life.

Less Prep for You, More Impact for Kids

We know that as a Sunday school teacher, you wear many hats. From coordinating schedules to preparing crafts, your time is valuable.

First Look gives you everything you need—ready-to-use lesson plans, teaching scripts, and vibrant media—so you can focus more on relationships and making an impact, and less on the planning process.

Our weekly lessons even come with PDFs for activity pages and coloring pages to make it simple to create games and activities for a memorable preschool experience. PDFs are also included for the best take-home crafts, so kids can remember the Bible lesson all week long.

In addition to the ready-to-use lessons, First Look offers training resources to help you and your team feel prepared and confident. From video tutorials to step-by-step guides, we provide everything you need to understand how to use the curriculum effectively.

When teachers are well-prepared, they can focus on creating meaningful connections with the children, making each Sunday an impactful experience.

Teaching Kids About a Big God

At the heart of First Look is the belief that even the youngest children can understand that they have a big God who made them and loves them no matter what.

Every story, song, and activity is crafted to point preschoolers to Jesus—helping them understand that God made them, God loves them, and Jesus wants to be their friend forever. It’s not just about hearing a Bible lesson—it’s about experiencing God’s love in a way that is engaging and unforgettable.

Our goal is to help preschoolers begin to see God as a loving, caring presence in their lives. By teaching foundational truths in a way that is relatable and engaging, we help children build a strong foundation of faith that they will carry with them as they grow.

Whether it’s through singing songs about Jesus, hearing a story from the Old Testament, or creating a craft that represents God’s love, each element of First Look is designed to make God’s love real to young hearts.

What Ministry Leaders Are Saying About First Look

“The programming resources are innovative & world class and help us teach kids about God and his love for us!”
– John J Lawless Jr

“I can’t imagine doing ministry without Orange as a partner! They allow us to minister to families and kids and take care of all the details and make us shine each week! I love the monthly themes and the flexibility you have with how you share the gospel any week!”
– Jody Shelton

“I am coming from a public school teacher turned kid min. perspective and the Orange curriculum is engaging, current, and interactive! Our kids love it.”
– Susan Bishara

“I’ve consulted with churches across the country about how to improve the effectiveness of their children’s ministry. Let me tell you, the Orange strategy works.”
– Sue Miller

Make Sunday School Exciting and Transformative

Imagine your preschool class filled with excitement—kids eagerly participating in Bible stories, singing about Jesus, and parents engaged all week long.

First Look helps make that vision a reality. It’s more than just preschool Bible lessons; it’s a complete, age-appropriate strategy to help children fall in love with Jesus and grow a faith that lasts.

Try First Look for Free

Ready to make your preschool Sunday school the place preschoolers love?

Experience the First Look difference with a free one-month trial of our curriculum. You’ll see firsthand how our engaging media, strategic lesson plans, and resources can transform your ministry.

Try First Look Curriculum for Free

The post First Look: The Preschool Curriculum That Makes Sunday School Fun and Impactful appeared first on Think Orange.

Let’s be honest.

We all get the stress and the hustle and bustle a real church day can bring — whether that’s a Sunday morning, Wednesday night, or any other day of programming. Now, let’s be clear, it’s SO worth it. But sometimes, it may feel like it would be even MORE worth it if you weren’t tired. Or constantly running around putting out fires.

This is why our team created the media package for 252 Kids and Preteen curriculum. While we can’t promise you won’t be tired (although a nap just might help!), we can guarantee this resource was designed to lighten your load while enhancing your programming. Plus engaging kids in a fun and dynamic way.

Unsure of where to start or why you should give this a try?

Take a look at some of the reasons this may be just right for you!

1. There’s not enough of me to go around.
   
   Maybe it’s a Saturday night, and you’re glancing at Planning Center with dismay because your Large Group leader just called out sick. Now you don’t have anyone to lead Worship or teach the Bible Story. Or maybe you have multiple services but only have enough help for one service and not the other. Hopefully, that’s not the case, but if that is you, we get it and have got you covered! Instead of stressing out about what to do, the Media Package is here for you! Its robust offerings provide you with two worship videos that include live dancers as well as, not one, but TWO different styles of teaching videos. And if you’re really low on volunteers, the Online Experience Videos merge all the main elements you would need to pull off your morning.
   
2. Time is money.
   
   Prep work can take up a lot of time when preparing for your programming, and time is valuable. Relationships are valuable, especially in this phase of life for a kid. Sometimes, it takes a while to sort through the scripts and edit them. As well as, time to learn the song with the dance moves. Instead of focusing most of your time trying to create the best environment by doing all the things. Create the best environment for your kids by being a part of it. Engage with the kids on a deeper level by spending time with them. Interacting with the content the same way they do. By utilizing these videos, you save time on the front end with prep work and create valuable moments with your kids on the back end.
   
3. “I only have ____ minutes.”
   
   Whether your Pastor loves to go long or short (does this part actually happen?) on their message, sometimes it’s hard to gauge how much extra programming you either need to add in or take out. While you still may not know exactly how much time you have available, utilizing these videos shows you the exact amount of time you have or need. If the service is short that day, you know you can play the teaching video in x amount of time. While still creating space (maybe even in that same room) for small groups right after. Or if the service is running long, and you’re using the Media Package. You know you have supplemental videos available to you that you can use to not only fill the time, but still connect to the truths your kids are learning that day.
   
4. Model diversity.
   
   One of the beauties of God’s church is how rich it is in culture, ethnicity, race, age, and gender. Just like the Church is made up of a diverse body of people, kids need to see that they too can be a part of it. When a kid sees someone who looks like them, or even when they don’t, they can begin to realize that when Jesus instructed the disciples to make disciples of all nations (Matt 28:19), that God’s Big Story truly is bigger than they could imagine and that they can take part in it. If you have a desire to grow in diversity, but your church is in a community where everyone looks the same, that may be a little harder to do. Using these teaching videos provides you with a way to better reflect the diversity of the global Church.
   
5. Engage various learning styles.
   
   Gen Alpha, the generation born between 2010 and the present, has grown up in a fully digitized world and is known for being pretty technologically savvy. They’re used to learning through digital means. However, just because they’re comfortable with it doesn’t always mean it’s helpful. The difference these teaching videos make is in the ways learning differences and the latest child development strategies are taken into account. StoryLab uses STEAM to explore core biblical truths, while the So & So Show explores faith through humor with a YouTube-style, sketch comedy approach. Both, however, leave kids with engaging questions and takeaways that allow leaders and families to continue the conversation and learn from one another once they leave.
   
6. Incorporate multimedia.
   
   The media package encompasses many forms of media, such as graphics, animations, infographics, and more. Multimedia gives kids an opportunity to engage with content through more than one of their senses. In addition, the various uses of media allow kids to gather and retain information in ways that meet each kid’s specific needs. The media package even includes closed-captioned videos to better serve the children and leaders who need them most.
   
7. Media is scalable.
   
   Teaching videos give you the chance to reach families anytime and anywhere. The enhanced streaming license that coincides with this media package even allows you to send teaching videos to your families. You benefit from this, too! If you have two services, consider a replay of the same teaching video from the first service or use an entirely different teaching video if you prefer! Lastly, you can preview the videos ahead of service to know when you might want to add more interactive moments throughout the story.
   
8. Media allows for consistency.
   
   If you utilize this resource, you are guaranteed a consistent source of content. Maybe you haven’t had time to do volunteer training. Yet want to be absolutely sure you know how content is being taught. By using the teaching videos, you’ll know exactly how different topics are presented and ways to lead the group in engaging discussion after.
   
9. Connect on a personal level.
   
   Each teaching video features fun, relatable hosts who interact with kids in an inviting and informative way. StoryLab features two young and inquisitive hosts who lead kids through a problem to solve and a credible communicator who walks them through the Bible story. The hosts’ younger age allows kids to see themselves in the characters and provides a more lively and energetic experience.
   
10. Just plain good!
    
    Last but not least, the media package is just PLAIN GOOD! Between the various tiers available, you are guaranteed to find just the right fit for you and your program. Between partnering with parents and elevating programming, this strategic and comprehensive package allows you to do what only you can do–build relationships. If you’re just starting out with curriculum and don’t know where to begin, this is a great place to start.

That’s it!

Ten reasons why you should drop everything you’re doing, and get the Media Package today! Our hope is that these videos make your job both a whole lot easier and a whole lot of fun as you create transformative environments for your kids. When you have extra time on your hands, you leave space for the things that really matter most. Connecting with your kids on a deeper level, and that’s a win for your ministry!

To learn more, download a free month of 252 Kids & Preteen curriculum today. There you’ll find the teaching videos and many more resources designed to help you make the most of your time with kids every week.

The post 10 Reason Why You Need Teaching Videos in Your Kids Ministry appeared first on Think Orange.

When it comes to leading kids and youth in ministry, there’s one thing we all know for sure: the stakes are high. In their first 18 years, children undergo incredible growth—mentally, emotionally, physically, spiritually, and socially. As a ministry leader, volunteer, and/or parent, you have a role in helping kids develop a resilient, lifelong faith. But how do you do that in a way that actually sticks?

You need more than just a curriculum. You need a strategy.

Why Orange Kids Ministry?

Orange Curriculum isn’t just about teaching Bible stories or giving you a list of activity ideas. It’s a strategic curriculum that helps you guide kids through the complexities of growing up. While ensuring they understand and experience God in a way that’s real to them.

Orange combines child development research, faith-based learning, and world-class media to help churches engage children at every stage of their development.

Here’s what ministry leaders who have tried Orange are saying about it:

“I love me some Orange kids curriculum because it considers the actual child: how they receive information, how they process it. And it teaches them how to take God’s Word and apply it.” – Mikell, Director of Family Ministries

“Orange curriculum has provided the best way to talk about Jesus with kids at every stage.” – Jill, Kids Director

Our mission? To help ministry leaders like you build lasting, resilient faith in kids from the very beginning. And here’s how we do it.

World-Class Media That Engages and Inspires

Let’s face it—we live in a world that’s constantly vying for our attention. Kids are accustomed to high-quality, engaging content, and they expect the same kind of experience everywhere they go, including in kids ministry and young ministry environments.

If we’re serious about teaching kids about God and helping them retain and apply biblical truths, we have to keep them engaged. This is where Orange truly stands out.

Teaching Videos and Graphics

Imagine teaching with videos that can compete with what kids watch on YouTube: from Ms. Rachel to Good Mythical Morning. Orange comes with complete teaching videos and graphics every single week—content that’s developmentally appropriate and designed to captivate kids’ attention.

These videos align with full lesson scripts, which means you spend less time preparing while still delivering maximum impact on Sunday mornings.

Worship Music to Get Everyone Moving

From preschoolers and elementary aged kids, to middle schoolers and teens, every kid loves a good beat. And we know that music is one of the most effective ways to communicate truth in a way that sticks.

With Orange, you get access to worship songs specifically curated for each age group, whether you’re pressing play on a video or leading live with a team of musicians. Each song and its dance moves are crafted to entertain, engage, and make core truths memorable—because sometimes the best way to learn is to move!

(PS – Our music is loved by grown-ups too, from the occasional volunteer to the devoted ministry leader!)

Social Media Made Simple

Staying connected beyond Sunday is essential, especially when parents and guardians play such a crucial role in their children’s spiritual lives. That’s why Orange offers a library of ready-to-use social media graphics, videos, and captions, making it easier than ever to connect with your community on platforms like Facebook and Instagram.

Keep the conversation going all week long with content that’s both meaningful and engaging.

Parent Cue App—A Bridge Between Church and Home

One of the most unique things about Orange is the Parent Cue app: a powerful tool that extends your Sunday teaching into the homes of your congregation. With Parent Cue, parents receive conversation starters, daily cues, and activity suggestions that align with what their kids are learning in church. It’s like putting faith-building prompts right in their hands, helping parents use their influence to foster faith at home.

Teaching in a Way Kids will Remember

How we teach the next generation is just as important as what we teach them.

Orange is all about meeting kids exactly where they are developmentally. Whether it’s preschoolers discovering who God is, elementary-aged children connecting God’s Word to their everyday experiences, or pre-teens wrestling with big questions about identity and purpose, Orange’s popular curriculum media package uses age-specific tools and methods to speak directly to each group.

Preschool: Wonder with Ollie

Preschoolers are naturally curious, and Wonder with Ollie taps into that curiosity through colorful animations, simple storytelling, and interactive elements. It’s all about sparking wonder and helping young children connect with God in an exciting and approachable way.

Elementary: Story Lab

Elementary-aged children love to explore. Story Lab makes Bible stories relatable and engaging in your children’s ministry by integrating STEM concepts into the lessons, encouraging critical thinking and showing how faith connects to the real world. It’s about making faith relevant to their every day—not just on Sundays.

Pre-Teens: The So&So Show

Pre-teens are at a stage where they’re asking the big questions: who am I? How do I fit in? The So&So Show helps youth ministry leaders tackle these complex questions using a fun talk-show format that pre-teens love. With humor, relatable hosts, and meaningful discussion, it keeps them connected to their faith journey outside the four walls of the church.

A Comprehensive Strategy for Real Life Impact

With Orange, you’re not just getting a curriculum; you’re getting a strategy. It’s an approach that brings the best in child development, age-appropriate content, and engaging media to make a lasting impact on every child in your ministry.

Orange is designed to bridge the gap between church and home and help kids understand how their faith fits into the broader context of their school days, their friendships, their family dynamics, and their culture.

It’s about developing a faith that isn’t compartmentalized, but fully integrated into every aspect of life. If you’re ready to elevate your kids ministry, we’re ready to partner with you. Get a month of Orange Curriculum for FREE and see how our world-class media can change your ministry. Or schedule a free walkthrough with one of our team members to learn how Orange can work in your unique context.

Try Orange Curriculum for Free

Not quite ready? Let’s connect. Schedule a free walkthrough and discover how Orange can support you, your team, and your families every step of the way.

Schedule a Free Walkthrough

The post Orange Curriculum: The Ultimate Strategy for an Engaging Kids Ministry appeared first on Think Orange.

10 Engaging Christmas Games for Kids Ministry This Season

1. Christmas Bingo

Setup: Prepare Bingo cards with Christmas-themed images such as stars, angels, gifts, a manger, and baby Jesus. You can download Christmas-themed Bingo templates online or create custom cards. Print out enough for each child and have some small prizes ready.

How to Play: Call out each item as kids mark them on their cards. The first child to complete a row, column, or diagonal shouts “Merry Christmas!” and wins a prize. For added excitement, include fun ways for kids to say “Bingo,” like “Hallelujah!” or “Glory!” to make it feel extra festive.

Variations: For older kids, add in “challenge squares” that might require them to answer a Christmas trivia question or recite part of the Christmas story to earn the mark. For younger kids, you might use pictures instead of words for a simpler version.

Why It Works: Christmas Bingo is simple, engaging, and appeals to kids of all ages. It also makes for an excellent icebreaker activity to get everyone involved and ready to participate in the fun.

2. Shepherd’s Relay Race

Setup: Divide kids into two or more teams and set up an obstacle course with cones, chairs, or other objects. Each child will need a stick (or toy shepherd’s staff) and a small ball or stuffed “sheep.”

How to Play: Each child must guide their “sheep” around the course using only their shepherd’s staff. They’ll need to go through obstacles, around cones, or through hoops as they try to keep their sheep on track. The first team to have all players complete the course wins.

Variations: Add a twist by making it a timed race, or create a different path for each age group to ensure it’s challenging yet doable.

Why It Works: This game lets kids engage with the nativity story and feel like shepherds on their journey to find Jesus. It encourages teamwork, patience, and laughter—especially when sheep go astray!

3. Christmas Cookie Decorating Contest

Setup: Have plain sugar cookies, bowls of icing in different colors, sprinkles, and other decorating supplies set out on a table. Set a timer to give structure to the decorating, and prepare categories for judging, like “Most Festive,” “Most Creative,” or “Best Nativity Scene.”

How to Play: Give each child a cookie and some decorating materials. Set a timer (about 5–10 minutes), and then let the kids show off their finished creations. Winners in each category get a small prize, and everyone gets to keep (or eat!) their decorated cookie.

Variations: For a more budget-friendly option, consider decorating paper cookies instead, using markers, stickers, and glitter. You can also turn this into a group activity where kids collaborate to decorate a large paper cookie.

Why It Works: This activity allows kids to express creativity and get hands-on with a Christmas tradition. The chance to take their cookie home—or eat it on the spot—makes it feel even more rewarding.

4. Wise Men’s Treasure Hunt

Setup: Hide small treasures around the room or building. Treasures can include gold foil-wrapped chocolates, star-shaped candies, or small toys. You can create simple maps or clues for kids to follow.

How to Play: Divide kids into teams and give each team a map or set of clues. The goal is for each team to find as many treasures as possible, just like the Wise Men followed the star to find Jesus. The team that collects the most treasures wins.

Variations: For younger kids, provide picture-based maps with simple visual clues. Older kids can use riddles or Bible verse references as clues. You could even create a “mega treasure” that represents baby Jesus, offering extra points for finding it.

Why It Works: This game engages kids’ problem-solving skills, encourages teamwork, and reminds them of the Wise Men’s journey. It’s also easily adaptable for different group sizes and settings.

5. Pin the Halo on the Angel

Setup: Draw or print a large image of an angel on poster board and hang it at kid-level on a wall. Cut out small paper halos for each child and add double-sided tape.

How to Play: Blindfold each child, spin them gently, and have them try to place the halo on the angel’s head. The child who gets closest wins a small prize.

Variations: You could adapt this to “Pin the Star on the Manger” or “Pin the Gift on the Wise Man.” For very young kids, you could forgo the blindfold to make it simpler.

Why It Works: This classic game is easy to set up, fun to play, and familiar to kids. Adding a Christmas twist makes it even more memorable and adds to the holiday spirit.

6. Christmas Carol Freeze Dance

Setup: Make a playlist of upbeat Christmas songs like “Jingle Bells,” “Deck the Halls,” and “Joy to the World.”

How to Play: Play music and let the kids dance freely. When the music stops, everyone has to freeze in place. If someone moves, they’re out. The last child remaining wins.

Variations: To make it more inclusive, instead of eliminating kids, you can give them small “freeze tickets” or points and let them keep dancing.

Why It Works: Dancing gets kids moving, and familiar carols help them sing along, spreading cheer and excitement.

7. Nativity Dress-Up Relay

Setup: Gather costumes (or simple props) for nativity characters like shepherds, angels, wise men, and Mary and Joseph. Lay these out in two piles—one for each team.

How to Play: Divide kids into teams. One at a time, each child puts on a costume piece, runs to the other side of the room, and returns before the next child goes. The first team with everyone dressed wins.

Variations: For added fun, have each team pose for a “Nativity Scene” photo at the end. You could also encourage kids to say a line as their character before they return.

Why It Works: Kids get to embody the Christmas story, creating a deeper connection to it. The relay format makes it active, energetic, and exciting.

8. The Gift-Wrapping Challenge

Setup: Provide small boxes, wrapping paper, tape, bows, and ribbons.

How to Play: In teams of two or three, kids must work together to wrap a gift within a set time limit. They can be judged on creativity, speed, or neatness.

Variations: To add more complexity, give each team odd-shaped items to wrap or let them wrap a teammate!

Why It Works: Wrapping a gift may seem simple, but it requires teamwork and creativity. It’s a practical, hands-on activity that celebrates the spirit of giving.

9. Snowball Toss

Setup: Use white beanbags or soft balls as “snowballs.” Set up large containers or buckets at different distances and assign point values to each.

How to Play: Kids take turns tossing “snowballs” into the containers. They get points based on which bucket they make it into, and the player with the most points wins.

Variations: You could also create “snowman faces” on the buckets or add lights to the containers for a wintery glow.

Why It Works: This game lets kids experience a snowball fight indoors in a controlled way. It’s also easily adaptable for different age groups and levels.

10. Guess the Christmas Smell

Setup: Fill small containers with holiday scents like cinnamon, peppermint, gingerbread, pine, and orange.

How to Play: Blindfold each child and have them sniff each container, writing down their guesses. The child with the most correct guesses wins.

Variations: Consider adding harder-to-guess scents like cocoa powder or nutmeg. For younger kids, you might let them try with their eyes open to make it simpler.

Why It Works: This sensory game taps into a unique way to experience Christmas. It’s memorable and engaging, helping kids connect to the season through their senses.

That’s a Wrap with Ideas for Christmas Games for Kids Ministry (no pun intended.) 😉

These games provide a wonderful way to capture the magic of Christmas while focusing on its deeper meaning. From active games to creative crafts, there’s something here to engage every child in your ministry, no matter their age. Try a mix of these ideas this Christmas season, and watch as the kids in your ministry experience the joy, wonder, and connection of this special time of year. With these games, you’ll be creating memories that go beyond the Christmas season, instilling values and stories that will stay with them for years to come. If you try any of these Christmas games in your kids ministry let us know how they go – we’d love to hear.

A Free Family Experience for You to Use this Christmas Season

Looking to host a merry event for families this Christmas? Download the Jingle Jam free event kit and get the tools needed to plan, promote, and host a family experience this season. This free event kit includes planning files, marketing materials, games, graphics, production files, and more. This is a complete kit to simplify your Christmas programming and allow the community to come together, create memories, and celebrate the birth of Jesus. With Jingle Jam, hosting a family-inclusive Christmas event has never been easier.

The post 10 Engaging Christmas Games for Kids Ministry This Season appeared first on Think Orange.

Here are 10 Christmas games that will add some merriment to your youth group this season.

1. Face Painting: Add a Festive Touch

What better way to kick off the holiday fun than with creative Christmas face painting? Set up a station where group members can transform into festive characters like Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, a snowman, or an elf. All you need is a volunteer with an artistic hand and some face paint supplies—red, green, white, and sparkles are always a must! Don’t forget to provide mirrors so everyone can check out their new holiday look.

Why it works: Face painting is a great icebreaker, allowing everyone to dive into the festive spirit from the get-go. It also adds a visual element of fun to the event, making it feel like an extra-festive Christmas party.

Pro Tip: Have a few pre-drawn designs for inspiration and keep things simple with easy, recognizable Christmas symbols.

2. Costume Contest: Looks that Sleigh

If your group loves a bit of friendly competition, a Christmas costume contest will get everyone excited. Encourage your students to come dressed as their favorite holiday characters—Santa Claus, a reindeer, the Grinch, or even a Christmas tree! Let each small group nominate their two best-dressed members. Gather all the nominees on stage, take a group picture, and let the audience vote by applause for the winner. Alternatively, you can have a panel of leaders select the top costume. Be sure to reward the winner with a festive prize like a gift card, Christmas ornament, or holiday-themed treat.

Why it works: A costume contest gets everyone involved and taps into their creativity while giving the event a fun, lighthearted vibe. Plus, who doesn’t love dressing up?

Pro Tip: Post pictures of the winners on your ministry’s social media, side-by-side with the character they dressed as for a fun “who wore it better” post!

3. Candy Cane Ring Toss: A Sweet Challenge

This Christmas twist on a classic game will keep your group on their toes—literally! Set up a series of target stands (cones, bottles, or even Christmas tree decorations) and provide players with candy cane-shaped rings. Each student gets a chance to toss the rings and try to hook them onto the targets. For a bit more fun, gradually increase the distance between the players and the targets to make it more challenging as the game progresses.

Why it works: Candy Cane Ring Toss is a simple game that’s easy to set up and play. It’s a fun competition, and it’s a great game for all ages.

Pro Tip: Consider giving small holiday-themed prizes for each successful toss to keep everyone motivated.

4. Christmas Karaoke: Fa La La La Your Heart Out

What’s Christmas without some music? Set up a karaoke station and let your group show off their vocal (or lip-syncing) talents with classic Christmas tunes. Whether it’s “Jingle Bells,” “Silent Night,” or “All I Want for Christmas is You,” there’s nothing like belting out a festive song to get people in the holiday spirit. You can have individuals perform solo or get small groups to sing together. Turn it into a competition by having a volunteer judge or by allowing the audience to vote for the best performance.

Why it works: Christmas karaoke is a crowd-pleaser. It’s nostalgic, entertaining, and always good for a few laughs.

Pro Tip: Offer fun categories for winners, such as “Most Creative Performance,” “Best Group Sing,” or “Most Enthusiastic Singer,” to encourage participation from even the shyest members of the group.

5. Snowball Toss: Aim for the Win

Bring a bit of winter wonderland into your small group with a snowball toss game! Using balled-up paper or soft foam balls as snowballs, set up a target board with buckets, hoops, or a snowman cutout. Each target can have different point values based on difficulty. Give each player a set number of snowballs (3-5) and see who can rack up the highest score. You can even create team challenges to add a layer of competition.

Why it works: Snowball Toss is fun, simple, and easy to organize. Plus, it’s great for all ages, making it a versatile game for mixed groups.

Pro Tip: If you want to go the extra mile, decorate your targets with festive designs, like reindeer, elves, or a gingerbread house, to make the game more immersive.

6. Christmas Card Station: Spread Some Cheer

This activity encourages creativity while also giving students a chance to share the Christmas spirit. Set up a station with blank cards, glitter glue, stickers, colored markers, and other craft supplies. Encourage everyone to create personalized Christmas cards, which they can either give to each other, take home to loved ones, or donate to a local charity or nursing home.

Why it works: The Christmas card station is a quieter, more reflective activity, but it gives people a chance to express kindness and thoughtfulness during the holiday season.

Pro Tip: Provide sample messages or fun prompts like “What’s your favorite Christmas memory?” to get people started.

7. Elf Bowling: Knock Down the Elves

Take the traditional bowling game and give it a holiday twist with Elf Bowling! Decorate empty plastic bottles to look like elves—wrap them in Christmas paper or use markers and stickers to add festive details. Players will roll a ball (or even a wrapped present) to knock down as many elf pins as possible in one go.

Why it works: Elf Bowling is a fun, hands-on game guaranteed to get everyone on their feet. It’s a silly, lighthearted activity that’s easy to set up but adds a big dose of Christmas fun.

Pro Tip: Offer a prize for anyone who scores a strike to add an extra element of excitement.

8. Sack Race: Santa’s Gift Bag Challenge

Take the traditional sack race and turn it into a Santa-themed race! Provide each student with a sack decorated to look like Santa’s gift bag. Players will hop from one end of the course to the other, racing to be the first to finish. For an added challenge, place large inflatable “gifts” or presents along the course that players must collect as they go. You can even time each student to make it more competitive.

Why it works: It’s a high-energy game that gets everyone laughing and moving. It’s especially fun if your group has a competitive streak!

Pro Tip: Encourage students to wear Santa hats or other festive gear during the race to amp up the holiday cheer.

9. Snowball Fight Arena: Ultimate Showdown

One of the most anticipated events of the day, the Snowball Fight Arena will bring out the inner child in everyone! Divide your group into teams and arm each team with soft foam balls or balled-up socks as “snowballs.” Set up barriers, forts, or even just designated sides of the room for each team to hide behind and strategize. Then let the snowball fight begin! The goal is to eliminate players by hitting them with snowballs, but you can also incorporate other objectives, like capturing the other team’s flag.

Why it works: This high-energy game is a fantastic finale to your Christmas games session. It’s a physical, team-based activity that encourages teamwork and friendly competition between small groups.

Pro Tip: If you have a hosting segment in your large group experience, consider organizing multiple rounds or using different strategies, such as timed battles or knock-out rounds.

10. Awards Ceremony: Ring in the Victories

Wrap up your Christmas games with an awards ceremony! After all the games and activities, take time to recognize the winners of each competition—whether it’s best costume, best karaoke performance, or top-scoring team in the snowball fight. Hand out holiday-themed trophies, t-shirts, or even snow globes as prizes. This is also a great opportunity to celebrate students who showed great sportsmanship or holiday spirit throughout the event.

Why it works: Recognizing students adds a sense of achievement and excitement to your event. It also reinforces the joy of coming together and celebrating as a group.

Pro Tip: Capture the awards ceremony with photos and videos to share with your group on social media or in a recap email to keep the holiday spirit alive long after the event.

Spread Christmas Cheer All Year Long in Your Youth Group

Want even more Christmas fun? These 10 games from our Merry & Bright Carnival Night Christmas Party Pack. Step right up! We’ve got a Christmas experience for your youth group you don’t want to miss. Throw an epic Christmas Carnival for your student ministry with our FREE party pack!

Need even more ideas of what games you can use this holiday season in your youth group? Join our youth ministry Facebook community.

The post 10 Christmas Games to Bring Holiday Cheer to Your Youth Group appeared first on Think Orange.

The post Creating Memorable Christmas Programming for Families appeared first on Think Orange.

Each new VBS offers its own unique approach, and choosing the right one can feel a little overwhelming. But don’t worry! We’re here to help. We’re diving into the top VBS 2025 kits, so you don’t have to.

Whether you’re seeking an adventure-filled journey, a deep theological exploration, or a vibrant community-building experience, this comparison will help you find the perfect kit that aligns with your ministry’s goals and engages your kids in meaningful, faith-building fun. We are obviously biased toward our favorite VBS curriculum – along with the VBS Facebook group, our community of over 20,000 VBS Directors – however, there are plenty of other options to explore. Let’s unpack what each of these programs has to offer so you can make the best choice for your church’s VBS in 2025.

Why use a VBS kit?

Creating an immersive VBS environment doesn’t have to be hard. Using a complete VBS kit helps VBS leaders effectively facilitate a successful and impactful program for a fraction of the time and effort. Kits make it easy to discover creative ideas for vibrant decorations, snacks, activities, and more. So you can create a visually appealing VBS theme that fits your budget and your team’s capabilities.

VBS programs can also simplify VBS worship sessions. Many kits include albums of catchy, relevant music for joyful and meaningful praise. You’ll be singing these songs all summer!

They also usually include large group teaching guides, small group guides, and take-home materials that foster meaningful family interactions and intentionally connect families to the VBS lessons.

Done-for-you kits are a no-brainer for an engaging VBS experience. As VBS director, you just have to find the one that’s right for you and your community!

Unpacking Each Kit and Theme

Let’s take a look at the top VBS themes for 2025!

Inside Look at Orange VBS 2025

Kit Details:

Complete Kit – $229

Age Levels:

Preschool – Preteen

Theme:

Live It Out

Tagline:

Discover how to love like Jesus

Theme Verse:

“I give you a new command. Love one another. You must love one another, just as I have loved you.” John 13:34 NIrV

Program Description:

Live It Out VBS combines the spirit of camp – the camaraderie, the daily activities, and the immersive nature – with meaningful Bible stores, fun worship songs, and engaging small group activities that teach kids how to live out their faith through the best VBS ever. This program integrates child development for preschoolers through preteens and theology to get kids actively involved in building their faith and to create a holistic and engaging experience. This intentional VBS kit includes all the essential tools you need to spark meaningful family discussions at home, reinforce key Biblical truths, and create an impactful and visually engaging VBS experience.

Daily Breakdown:

Day 1

Bible Story: Jesus Washes His Disciples’ Feet

Daily Scripture: John 13:1-17

Bottom Line: Love one another.

Day 2

Bible Story: Little Children are Brought to Jesus

Daily Scripture: Mark 10:13-16

Bottom Line: Be kind to one another.

Day 3 – Forgive one another.

Bible Story: God’s Love for Us

Daily Scripture: 1 John 4:9-12

Day 4

Bible Story: The Lord’s Prayer

Daily Scripture: Matthew 6:9-13

Bottom Line: Pray for one another.

Day 5

Bible Story: The Believers Share Their Lives Together

Daily Scripture: Acts 2:42-47

Bottom Line: Serve one another.

With the Orange VBS program, you also get:

An entire summer strategy in one kit

Two months of Sunday morning curriculum are included with every VBS kit purchase to ensure that your experience doesn’t end after just one week but continues throughout the entire summer.

Inspiration Galore

You can access our Pinterest inspiration page for ideas on creative and vibrant decorations (for any budget size) that vibe with this year’s VBS branding.

Tons of Support

Join the VBS Facebook Group and get access to more than 20,000 VBS directors and the Orange VBS team so you can share ideas, get inspired, and create a memorable VBS experience.

Exploring EasyVBS by Group Publishing

Kit Details:

Ultimate Starter Kit & Digital – $309.99

Theme:

True North

Tagline:

Trusting Jesus in a wild world

Program Description:

Guide kids on the ultimate Alaskan adventure, where northern lights glow over majestic mountains, racing rivers, and glistening glaciers. As kids trek the tundra, they’ll explore how easy it is to lose sight of what’s true in our wild world today. Pointing them toward Jesus, True North VBS shows them that he is a faithful friend we can always trust. He’s our True North!

Daily Breakdown:

Day 1

Bible Story: John Prepares the Way and Baptizes Jesus

Daily Scripture: Matthew 3; 11:1-6

Bible Point: When we wonder, we can trust Jesus.

Day 2

Bible Story: Jesus Teaches about God’s Love for Us

Daily Scripture: Matthew 6:25-33; 18:12-14

Bible Point: When we feel alone, we can trust Jesus.

Day 3

Bible Story: A Roman Officer Trusts Jesus

Daily Scripture: Matthew 8:5-13

Bible Point: When we feel powerless, we can trust Jesus.

Day 4

Bible Story: Jesus Dies and Comes Back to Life

Daily Scripture: Matthew 26:47-28:8

Bible Point: When we need hope, we can trust Jesus.

Day 5

Bible Story: Jesus Gives the Great Commission, and the Holy Spirit Comes

Daily Scripture: Matthew 28:16-20; Acts 2:1-12

Bible Point: When we need help, we can trust Jesus.

Lifeway VBS 2025 Theme Overview

Kit Details:

Directors Kit – $37.99 + Starter Kit & Digital – TBD

Theme:

Magnified!

Tagline:

Discovering the bigness of God in the smallest of things

Theme Verse:

“Proclaim the Lord’s greatness with me; let us exalt His name together.” – Psalm 34:3

Program Description:

Magnified! This Lifeway VBS program will encourage kids to look closely at the details of God’s amazing world and magnify or proclaim God’s greatness. God made us, cares about us, loves us, forgives us, and is faithful to keep all His promises to us. We can praise God together! We were made to magnify God!

Daily Breakdown:

Day 1

Bible Story Title: Jesus and the Children

Daily Scripture: John 1:1-3,12

Today’s Point: God sees me.

Day 2

Bible Story Title: Jesus Calmed the Storm

Daily Scripture: Mark 4:1, 35-41

Today’s Point: God cares about me.

Day 3

Bible Story Title: The Woman at the Well

Daily Scripture: John 4:1-42

Today’s Point: God loves me.

Day 4

Bible Story Title: Jesus and Nicodemus

Daily Scripture: John 3:1-21; 18-20; 1 Corinthians 15:6

Today’s Point: God forgives me.

Day 5

Bible Story Title: Jesus Taught about Worry

Daily Scripture: Matthew 6:25-34

Today’s Point: God keeps His promises.

Unpacking the AnswersVBS 2025 Theme

Kit Details:

Super Starter Kit & Digital – $299

Theme:

Wonder Junction

Tagline:

Marvel at Jesus, live for his glory

Program Description:

Howdy, partners! Welcome to Wonder Junction! There’s no greater joy than to praise the name of the Lord all day long. But how can yer kids do that if they don’t know who Jesus is or what he’s done for them? Here at Wonder Junction, we marvel at Jesus and live for his glory.

Daily Breakdown:

Day 1

Lesson Focus: The baby King’s birth was a wonder. What amazing happenings surrounded it?

Bible Passages: Matthew 1-2; Luke 2

Apologetics Focus: Is Jesus the most important person ever born?

Day 2

Lesson Focus: The young King’s childhood was a wonder. What was he like as a child and teen?

Bible Passages: Luke 2:39-52

Apologetics Focus: Is Jesus God or man – or both?

Day 3

Lesson Focus: The adult King’s ministry years were a wonder. What astonishing things occurred?

Bible Passages: Selections from the book of Mark

Apologetics Focus: How much power does Jesus have?

Day 4

Lesson Focus: The risen King’s death and resurrection were a wonder. How were they like no other?

Bible Passages: Matthew 27-28

Apologetics Focus: Could Jesus experience pain and sadness?

Day 5

Lesson Focus: The return of the King of kings will be a wonder. What should we be doing in the meantime?

Bible Passages: Select verses – Matthew 25:14-30

Apologetics Focus: How will Jesus return?

A Closer Look at Cokesbury VBS 2025

Kit Details:

Ultimate Starter Kit & Digital – $249.99

Theme:

Road Trip

Tagline:

On the go with God

Theme Verse:

“The Lord your God is with you wherever you go.” Joshua 1:9

Program Description:

Join us in a fun-filled adventure on the open road, taking all the kids (Travelers) on thrilling journeys to exciting destinations. Led by the Navigator and an adventurous pup Scout, kids will learn that God is always with them. Through engaging stories from the Navigators’ Guide (the Bible), Travelers will delve into timeless tales of faith from the Old and New Testaments. Get ready for twists, turns, and excitement as they face new challenges and find strength in God’s presence on this unforgettable trip!

Daily Breakdown:

Day 1

Bible Story: Abraham and Sarah Followed God (Genesis 12:1-9)

Mile Marker: God is with us on the journey.

Green Light Verse: The Lord your God is with you wherever you go. (Joshua 1:9)

Day 2

Bible Story: The Israelites Take the Scenic Route (Exodus 13:17-22)

Mile Marker: God is with us when we go off course.

Green Light Verse: The Lord your God is with you wherever you go. (Joshua 1:9)

Day 3

Bible Story: Mary & Elizabeth’s Family Reunion (Luke 1:39-56)

Mile Marker: God is with us when we’re joyful.

Green Light Verse: The Lord your God is with you wherever you go. (Joshua 1:9)

Day 4

Bible Story: Jesus Visits Zacchaeus (Luke 19:1-10)

Mile Marker: God is with us when we’re lonely.

Green Light Verse: The Lord your God is with you wherever you go. (Joshua 1:9)

Day 5

Bible Story: On the Road with Paul (Acts 18:1-11)

Mile Marker: God is with us near and far.

Green Light Verse: The Lord your God is with you wherever you go. (Joshua 1:9)

Start Planning Your Very Best Summer

VBS 2025 will be here before we know it, and our prayer is that children will grow in their understanding of and relationship with Jesus. We hope your program is filled with joy, laughter, and spiritual growth as the children in your church experience God’s love in a powerful way.

While we may have our favorite VBS theme, the most important thing is finding the kit that best fits your church’s needs, teaching style, and summer goals. Remember, the right VBS kit will not only engage and inspire kids but also equip your volunteers and create a lasting impact on your entire church community.

To connect with other ministry leaders and get inspired by those bringing Live It Out VBS to life, join our VBS Facebook Group. This community is all about sharing ideas, celebrating successes, and making this the Very Best Summer! 

The post VBS 2025 Themes Unpacked: How Orange, Lifeway, Group and More Stack Up appeared first on Think Orange.