Interactive Lessons and Activities on Samuel’s Calling for Kids

Teaching children about Samuel’s calling can be a rich and enlightening experience. The story, found in the Bible, offers valuable lessons on listening, obedience, and faith.

Children learn best when they are actively engaged.

Interactive lessons that combine crafts, role-playing, and thoughtful discussion make the story more relatable and memorable for young minds.

Background of Samuel’s Calling

The story of Samuel’s calling begins with a young boy living in the temple under the care of Eli, the high priest. Samuel’s mother, Hannah, had dedicated him to the Lord as a fulfillment of her vow, and he grew up serving in the temple. This setting is significant as it highlights the environment of devotion and service that shaped Samuel’s early years.

One night, as Samuel lay in the temple, he heard a voice calling his name. Mistaking it for Eli, he ran to the priest, only to be told that Eli had not called him. This happened three times, and each time Samuel went to Eli, who eventually realized that it was the Lord calling the boy. Eli instructed Samuel to respond to the voice by saying, “Speak, Lord, for your servant is listening.” This moment marks a turning point, as Samuel’s willingness to listen and respond to God’s call sets the stage for his future role as a prophet.

The narrative of Samuel’s calling is not just about a divine encounter but also about the importance of guidance and mentorship. Eli’s role in helping Samuel recognize and respond to God’s voice underscores the value of wise counsel and support in spiritual growth. This aspect of the story can be particularly resonant for children, as it emphasizes the importance of listening to and learning from trusted adults.

Craft Activities

Engaging children through hands-on activities can make the story of Samuel’s calling come alive in a tangible way. One effective method is to create a storytelling tableau using simple materials such as felt, paper, and fabric. Children can craft their own figures of Samuel, Eli, and the temple setting, allowing them to visually recreate the scene. This not only reinforces the narrative but also stimulates their creativity and fine motor skills.

Another captivating craft activity involves making “listening ears” headbands. Using construction paper, markers, and elastic bands, children can design and decorate their own headbands with oversized ears. This playful activity serves as a reminder of the importance of listening, a central theme in Samuel’s story. As they wear their headbands, children can participate in interactive storytelling, taking turns narrating parts of the tale and practicing active listening.

Incorporating technology can also enhance the crafting experience. Digital drawing apps like Procreate or Tayasui Sketches offer children a modern twist on traditional crafts, allowing them to illustrate scenes from Samuel’s life using a tablet or computer. This not only builds their digital literacy but also provides an opportunity to express their understanding of the story in a format they find exciting and accessible.

For a more immersive experience, consider a collaborative mural project. Using a large sheet of butcher paper, children can work together to create a mural depicting Samuel’s calling. Encouraging teamwork, this activity fosters a sense of community and collective storytelling. Each child can contribute a different element, whether it’s drawing, coloring, or adding textures, resulting in a vibrant and multifaceted representation of the narrative.

Role-Playing Samuel’s Story

Role-playing can be an incredibly effective way to immerse children in Samuel’s story, making them active participants in the narrative rather than passive listeners. By acting out scenes, they gain a deeper understanding of the characters’ emotions and motivations, fostering empathy and a personal connection to the story. Begin by assigning roles to each child—some can take on the parts of Samuel, Eli, and other temple inhabitants, while others can serve as narrators to guide the action along.

To set the scene, transform a classroom or play area into a makeshift temple. Simple props like robes, makeshift altars, and lamps can help create an authentic atmosphere. Encourage the children to use their imagination to fill in the details, making the environment come alive. This physical transformation helps transport them back in time, enhancing their engagement and making the story feel more immediate and real.

During the role-play, prompt the children to explore different scenarios and dialogues that may not be explicitly mentioned in the original text. For instance, they can enact moments of Samuel’s daily life in the temple, his interactions with other characters, and even his internal thoughts and feelings. This creative exploration allows children to delve deeper into the story, understanding it from multiple perspectives and adding layers of meaning to the original narrative.

Encourage improvisation and spontaneity as the children act out their roles. Allow them the freedom to interpret their characters and respond to situations in their own words. This not only makes the activity more engaging but also helps develop their communication and problem-solving skills. By stepping into someone else’s shoes, they learn to navigate complex social dynamics and articulate their thoughts and emotions effectively.

Discussion Questions for Children

As children engage with the story of Samuel, it’s valuable to guide them through reflective questions that encourage deeper thinking and personal application. Start by asking, “How do you think Samuel felt when he first heard his name being called?” This question helps children consider the emotions and reactions of the characters, fostering empathy. It’s an opportunity for them to relate to Samuel’s experience of uncertainty and curiosity, emotions they might have felt in their own lives.

Building on this, explore the theme of guidance with, “Why do you think it was important for Samuel to have someone like Eli to help him understand what was happening?” This question underscores the significance of mentors and wise counsel in navigating life’s challenges. Children can reflect on the people in their lives who provide support and wisdom, making connections between the story and their personal experiences.

To delve into the theme of listening, pose the question, “What does it mean to listen carefully, and why is it important?” This can lead to a discussion about the different ways we listen—to friends, family, and even our inner selves. Encouraging children to think about the ways they can be better listeners helps them develop this crucial skill in a broader context, beyond the story itself.