BABY MOSES

Provide aluminum foil, craft sticks, tape, shallow tubs of water, and small plastic figures. Challenge preteens to work in small groups to build a basket that floats and keeps a figure dry. Let groups test their baskets, identify any leaks, and make improvements before testing again. Explain that Moses’ mother made a basket from bulrushes and coated it with bitumen and pitch to keep water out. As groups work, ask, “How did Moses’ mother and sister show care for him?” Remind preteens that God worked through these people to protect Moses, and invite them to name one practical way they can care for someone in their family.

Remind preteens that families are part of God’s plan for loving and protecting children. Explain that they will play “Jump the River,” using two strings on the floor to represent the banks of the Nile River. Invite preteens to take turns jumping across without stepping between the strings or landing on them; anyone who does is out for that round. After everyone has jumped, move the strings slightly farther apart and repeat, keeping the distance safe and allowing preteens to sit out any jump. When the distance becomes too great to cross, ask, “Why did it become impossible to jump over the river?” Explain that Moses’ family took steps to protect him, but they could not control everything that happened and needed God’s help. God worked through Moses’ mother, sister, and Pharaoh’s daughter to preserve his life, preparing him to one day lead God’s people out of Egypt.

Form groups of three to five preteens, and give each group paper and a pencil. Explain that they will work together to create a “Deliverance Song” telling the story of how Moses was rescued from the Nile River. Invite groups to choose a musical style, such as country, pop, or rap, and use provided instruments or pretend “air” instruments. Have groups write their lyrics, including the Life Point and Scripture verses from today’s Bible story. Allow enough time for groups to create, practice, and present their songs, using a microphone if available. After each presentation, invite the other groups to share how they heard the Life Point expressed and something they enjoyed about the song. Remind preteens that Moses’ family loved and protected him and that families are part of God’s plan for providing children with love and protection.

Emphasize that families are part of God’s plan for loving and protecting children. Direct preteens to line up on one side of the room to play “River Hop.” Give the first preteen a baby doll, and explain that the paper plates taped to the floor represent large lily pads. Challenge preteens to carry the doll safely across the pretend river by hopping from one lily pad to another. If any part of their foot touches the floor, have them return the doll to the next person in line and take a seat. Supervise for safety, re-tape any loose plates, and time each preteen to see who crosses the river the quickest. After the game, say, “God used Moses’ family to protect and care for him. We can also help care for and protect one another in our families. What is one way you can show care for your family this week?” Encourage responses such as showing respect, helping, or being kind, and invite each preteen to choose one action to practice this week.

Provide paper, markers, and stickers, and invite preteens to write encouraging notes to family members. Encourage them to name something they appreciate about each person or write a message such as, “Thank you for helping me,” or “I love spending time with you.” Have them plan where to leave their notes at home so each family member will find one. Remind preteens that Moses’ mother and sister cared for him, and we can show care for our families through our words and actions. Ask, “What is something you could do this week to show care along with your note?”

Invite students to paint their family or the story of Moses using watercolors. Remind preteens that Moses’ mother placed him in the river to protect him because she loved and cared for him. Talk with students about waysthey can show love and care for their families.