PILE OF PURPOSE

Prep

5 mins

Activity

15 mins

Lesson

4 mins

Total Time: 24 mins

Materials:

Toys your child can quickly gather, like action figures, dolls, toy cars, stuffed animals (10-20 total)

Overview:

Students, siblings, helpers around the house — just like you, your child plays many different roles throughout their day. Wearing so many different hats can be exhausting and intimidating for kids of any age. Encourage your child to walk confidently in their God-given responsibilities by showing them just how many things they do successfully each day.

STEP 1

GATHER TOYS

Say: We’re going to play a quick game that
celebrates you and all the amazing things you do each day! Let’s get started. Go to your room and get a bunch of your favorite toys and bring them out here. (Can specify the toy type)

STEP 2

NAME ROLES

Say: Great! Now, let’s think about all the different things you do each day and all the different roles you play. If we look at me, for example, I’m your parent, I work as a… (Name 3-4 different roles you play each day).

Now it’s your turn! What are some roles you play every day? Each time you name one of your roles, I want you to pick up a toy from your pile and move it to a new pile. These toys represent all the incredible things you do each day.

Support: If your child is struggling to name things they do each day, remind them: They’re a student at school, a friend, a sibling, your child, etc.

Do: Speak encouragingly to your child while they name their different roles and responsibilities.

Say: (When they are finished) That’s amazing! Look at your pile. You do so much every day. When you think about all these different roles:

Which of these is your favorite? (Encourage your child to pick up the toy or point to it when they answer the question) Why?

Which of these isn’t your favorite? Why? (Listen attentively to your child’s answer)

STEP 3

PRAISE & PRAYER

Say: Thank you for sharing that with me. Look at all the amazing things you do well each day! I know _____ can be overwhelming or scary, but it’s important to remember God is with you always. We never have to do anything alone.

Jesus promises to always be with us, and He
helps us when we call on Him. Whether you’re
doing your favorite task or the ones you don’t like so much, God is faithful to help us accomplish everything He’s asked us to do.
Let’s pray together.

Pray this verse over your child and share the hope of God’s Word.

For I can do everything through Christ, who gives me strength.

— Philippians 4:13 (NLT)

Dear Heavenly Father, thank You for never leaving us alone. Whenever we feel anxious or overwhelmed, help us to remember that You are with us and want to help us. In Jesus’ name, amen