As someone who understands the unique challenges of grandfamilies—I'm excited to share a fun budget-friendly activity to help your little ones memorize scripture. Below, I’ve provided everything you need to get started with the "Scripture Fish" activity, which encourages kids to learn Bible verses in a playful and engaging way. Below, you’ll find templates and step-by-step instructions to make this project a special part of your family's routine.
1. Fish Templates: Use the 30 simple fish templates provided, which can be printed on paper or cardstock. Below, you'll find free templates that already include scripture verses. If you'd like to add more verses, you can print the basic fish shape separately and customize it with additional scripture.
2. Basic Craft Supplies:
- Scissors
- Crayons, markers, or colored pencils (for decorating the fish)
- Glue or tape
- A small box, basket, or container (for the "pond")
- String and a stick or dowel (for the fishing rod)
- Paper clips or small metal rings (for attaching to the fish)
3. Optional: Magnetic strips (can be found at dollar stores) or adhesive magnets for a magnetic fishing option.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Scriptures:
- Print the 30 scriptures from the PDF. Cut them out so that each verse is on a small strip of paper.
- If possible, laminate the scripture strips to make them more durable. If you don’t have a laminator, you can use clear tape to cover both sides of the scripture strips.
2. Create the Fish:
- Print out the 30 fish shapes using the template. Cut out the fish and let the kids help decorate them with crayons, markers, or colored pencils.
- Attach one scripture to the back of each fish using glue or tape.
3. Prepare the Fishing Rod:
- Use a stick or dowel as the fishing rod. Tie a string to the end and attach a paperclip or small magnet at the end of the string.
- If using a magnet, place a small metal ring or paperclip on each fish so they can be "caught" with the fishing rod.
4. Create the Pond:
- Use a small box, basket, or container to serve as the "pond." Place all the fish in the pond with the scripture side facing down.
5. Daily Fishing:
- Each day, the grandchild can use the fishing rod to catch a fish. After catching a fish, they can flip it over to reveal the scripture of the day.
- The grandparent can then help the child memorize the verse throughout the day, possibly discussing its meaning during meal times or bedtime.
6. Storage:
- When not in use, store the fishing rod and fish in the box or container, making it easy to pull out for daily use.
Simplifying for Cost and Convenience:
- Use Recycled Materials: If possible, use materials you already have at home. For example, old cereal boxes can be cut into fish shapes to reinforce the paper fish and the cardboard side can be decorated, and a stick from the yard can serve as a fishing rod.
- No Magnets? No Problem: If magnets aren't available, simply attach a loop of string to the fish, and let the child hook it with the fishing rod.
Engagement Ideas:
- Add a Story Time: After catching the scripture fish, read a short Bible story related to the verse, if available.
- Memory Rewards: Reward the child with a small treat or extra playtime when they successfully memorize a verse.
You can place a hanger or command hooks up for the kids to look at their fish for each day. "Catch of the Day" just to make it fun
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