The book of James is full of practical wisdom that children can grasp and live out. Here are four activities to help your group listen to, remember, and act on the Word — from Scripture memory games to a craft they can take home. Each one needs only simple materials most churches already have.

Best suited for: ages 6–11.

1. The Chain of Wisdom

Scripture memory method · Verse: James 1:5

You will need: coloured paper strips, markers, glue or a stapler.

Give each child one paper strip with two or three words from the verse written on it. The children walk around the room to find the classmates holding the other parts of the verse. Working together, they arrange the strips in the correct order. Once the verse is complete, they connect the strips to make a paper chain.

2. The Mountain Echo

Scripture memory method · Verse: James 1:22

Read the verse aloud one phrase at a time and let the children echo each phrase back.

For example:

• Teacher: “Be doers…” → Children: “…of the Word!”
• Teacher: “And not…” → Children: “…hearers only!”

On the second round, whisper each phrase while the children respond louder. On the final round, mouth the words silently and let the children recite the whole verse from memory.

Challenge: Invite one child to become the Echo Leader and guide the activity.

3. The Decision Filter

Interactive activity · Inspired by James 1:19–20

You will need:

Situation cards with real-life scenarios, such as:

• Someone insults you.
• You receive a poor grade.
• A classmate lies about you.
• You are excluded from a game.
• Your sibling damages something that belongs to you.

Three signs or cards labelled:

• 🟢 Listen
• 🟡 Think
• 🔴 Act

Place the three labelled cards at the front of the room, or hold them up one at a time. The children stay seated throughout. Invite one child to read a situation card aloud, then guide the group through the three-step Decision Filter:

• What should I listen to?
• What should I think about before responding?
• What action would honour God?

Afterwards, discuss each response together using the principles found in James 1.

4. The Mirror of Faith

Craft idea · Inspired by James 1:23–25

You will need: silver cardstock or aluminium foil, coloured cardstock, popsicle sticks, glue.

The children make a hand mirror using the foil as the reflective surface. Around the frame they write:

• Listen
• Believe
• Live It
• Listen Again

On the back they write the question: “How is God’s Word changing me today?”

Encourage the children to take the mirror home as a reminder to put God’s Word into practice.

(Image:AI Generated)