It can be overwhelming for younger children as they begin to process their lives related to the sacrifice Jesus made on the cross. Easter is a natural time of reflection that occurs because of that sacrifice.
We know the end of the story is a happy and joyous celebration because it is the completion of God’s plan for salvation. However, it also came with pain and suffering.
We often struggle finding words that help children process the emotions they feel in life. The pain and suffering that Jesus endured on the cross is hard for even adults to hear, but we can help children by focusing on the truth of His resurrection.
The Bible tells us that three days following His death, Mary came to the tomb and that the big stone was rolled away. Jesus was no longer there. Jesus was ALIVE!
Here are a couple of ideas to help you in leading kids to rejoice in Christ’s resurrection:
Resurrection Eggs
One popular idea for sharing the Easter story is Resurrection Eggs. These eggs give children a hands-on experience for understanding. This is an excellent, developmentally appropriate way to share the Easter story with a child. You can purchase these eggs online or make them yourself. Click here for more ideas.
Resurrection Rolls
Ingredients
1 can refrigerated crescent roll dough
8 large marshmallows
Melted butter
Cinnamon sugar
- Take one triangle shaped section of crescent roll. This represents the tomb.
- Take one marshmallow which represents the body of Christ, and dip the marshmallow in the butter and roll in cinnamon and sugar mixture. This represents the oils and spices the body was anointed with upon burial.
- Lay the marshmallow on the dough and carefully wrap it around the marshmallow. Make sure all seams are pinched together well.
- Bake the crescent roll as indicated on the package. Baking the crescent roll melts the marshmallow away.
- Once the rolls have finished baking, break open the tomb and the body of Christ is no longer there!
- Celebrate the miracle of Christ’s resurrection!
