GUIDELINES

<aside> 1️⃣

Establish a clear central theme

• Define the overarching theme or message that will run throughout the curriculum series (e.g., The Character of Christ, God’s Generosity, or Living Like Jesus).
• Ensure the theme aligns with your church’s values and seasonal focuses (e.g., Christmas, Easter, Legacy Season). </aside>

<aside> 2️⃣

Define learning objectives:

1. What should the kids know?
2. What should the kids feel?
3. What should the kids do?

Example:

• Know: Jesus is generous and cares for our needs.
• Feel: Gratitude for God’s blessings.
• Do: Share with others because God shared with us. </aside>

<aside> 3️⃣

Highlight Core Values

• Define non-negotiable values that guide the curriculum, such as:
  • Jesus-centered teaching.
  • Biblical accuracy.
  • Relevance to everyday life.
  • Encouragement of childlike faith.
  • Engaging and fun! 🥳 </aside>

<aside> <img src="/icons/info-alternate_gray.svg" alt="/icons/info-alternate_gray.svg" width="40px" />

An overview serves as the blueprint that provides a unified framework for teaching core biblical truths, ensuring consistency and alignment across all age groups. It serves as the foundation where teams can build upon to tailor lessons to developmental stages.

</aside>

<aside> <img src="/icons/flag-swallowtail_gray.svg" alt="/icons/flag-swallowtail_gray.svg" width="40px" />

CONTENTS OF AN OVERVIEW

1. FOCUS
   • What to Write: The overarching theme or attribute of God that the lesson highlights.
   • Tips:
     • Keep it concise and clear.
     • Examples: God is generous; Kindness leaves an eternal impact; Learning how to pray
   • Purpose: Establish a central theme that connects all other components.
2. BIG IDEA
   • What to Write: A one-sentence statement summarizing the core lesson children should take away.
   • Tips:
     • Write in simple, relatable language.
     • Frame it as a truth about God and its relevance to their lives.
     • Example: “God blesses us so we can bless others too.”
   • Purpose: Simplify the main message into a memorable takeaway.
3. KEY SCRIPTURE
   • What to Write: A Bible verse or passage that anchors the lesson.
   • Tips:
     • Use a version that is accessible for the target age group (e.g., NIV, NIrV, etc.).
     • Include a brief explanation or application, if necessary.
     • Example: 2 Corinthians 9:11 (NIrV): “You will be made rich in every way so that you can be generous on every occasion.”
   • Purpose: Provide a biblical foundation for the lesson.
4. STORY
   • What to Write: A specific Bible story that illustrates the focus and big idea.
   • Tips:
     • Mention the passage reference and summarize the story in 1-3 sentences.
     • Highlight key moments that connect to the focus and big idea.
     • Example: “The Miracle of the Loaves and Fishes (John 6:1-14): Jesus feeds a large crowd with five loaves of bread and two fish, showing his provision.”
   • Purpose: Paint a picture of how Jesus exemplifies the focus and big idea.
5. CHARACTER OF JESUS
   • What to Write: How Jesus exemplifies the focus through his actions or teachings in the story.
   • Tips:
     • Write one or two sentences explaining Jesus’ traits.
     • Connect it to the lesson's focus.
     • Example: “Jesus is generous and provides abundantly for our needs, showcasing his divine power and care.”
   • Purpose: Help kids easily understand who Jesus is.
6. KEY POINTS
   • What to Write: Practical applications and insights related to the focus and big idea.
   • Tips:
     • Break this into 2-3 bullet points.
     • Include life applications kids can relate to.
   • Purpose: Break down complex concepts into simple, bite-sized truths that children can easily understand and remember. </aside>