Happy Birthday Jesus! Christmas Lesson Plan for Preschool

Storytime Lesson Plan

"Happy Birthday Jesus!"

Christmas Lesson Plan

Luke 2:11

This series of lesson plans was developed and used in NSW, Australia. Some books and/or songs may not be available in your area. Please adapt these suggestions to suit your resources.

I. Introduction: Before the children arrive, decorate the storytime area for a birthday party. Use lots of colorful streamers, balloons, a "Happy Birthday" banner, and other decorations to give the room a festive flair. The children will be surprised when they arrive, especially if they are expecting a Christmas storytime. Ask the children who they think the party decorations are for. Explain that it is Jesus' birthday at Christmas. Spend some time talking about other things we do at Christmas, and explain the true reason we celebrate Christmas.

II. Song: (To the tune of "Jesus Loves Me")
"Happy birthday Jesus!
I'm so glad it's Christmas!
All the tinsel and the lights,
All the presents are so nice.
But, the real gift is You,
Thank you God, we know it's true!
Happy birthday Jesus!
Jesus, we love you!"

III. Read, God Promised Us a Savior, by Matthew W. Welser (Arch Books.)

IV. Bible Verse Bracelets: Luke 2:11
"Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; He is Christ the Lord."
(Print out, on a brightly-colored sheet of paper, today's verse repeated down the page. Cut between each verse so that you have 10-15 strips, each with the verse printed on it. Ask the children to form a line, and using tape to stick the ends together, wrap a "Bible Verse Bracelet" round each little wrist. Some children do not want to wear it; in that case, hand it to them and tell them to use the verse as a bookmark. The children love these, and come to expect them at each session! The verses also find their way home to parents and siblings, and help to spread the news about that day's storytime.)