The story of Jonah and the Whale is a timeless classic that has captivated the imagination of children and adults alike for centuries. This biblical tale of obedience, forgiveness, and second chances has been a staple of Sunday school lessons and children's ministries for generations. If you're looking for engaging and educational activities to help children learn about this beloved story, you're in luck! Here are five free printable Jonah and the Whale activities that you can use to teach and entertain your little ones.
Why Teach Children About Jonah and the Whale?
Teaching children about Jonah and the Whale is essential for several reasons. Firstly, it helps them understand the importance of obedience and listening to God's voice. Jonah's reluctance to obey God's command to preach to the people of Nineveh serves as a powerful lesson in the consequences of disobedience. Secondly, the story showcases God's mercy and forgiveness, demonstrating that everyone deserves a second chance. Finally, the story promotes cultural awareness and understanding of biblical history, which is essential for children's spiritual growth and development.
Jonah and the Whale Activity 1: Whale Craft Template
This free printable whale craft template is perfect for young children who love arts and crafts. Simply print out the template, cut out the whale shape, and let your little ones decorate it with markers, crayons, or paint. You can also add other craft supplies like glitter, stickers, or sequins to make it more engaging.
Instructions:
- Print out the whale craft template
- Cut out the whale shape
- Decorate the whale with markers, crayons, or paint
- Add other craft supplies like glitter, stickers, or sequins
- Display the finished craft in a window or on a wall
Jonah and the Whale Activity 2: Jonah's Journey Sequencing Game
This sequencing game is designed to help children understand the order of events in the story of Jonah and the Whale. Simply print out the sequencing game template, cut out the different scenes, and have your children arrange them in the correct order.
Instructions:
- Print out the sequencing game template
- Cut out the different scenes
- Arrange the scenes in the correct order
- Glue the scenes onto a large piece of paper or cardboard
- Review the story with your children and discuss any questions they may have
Jonah and the Whale Activity 3: Whale Food Chain Diagram
This whale food chain diagram is a fun and educational activity that teaches children about the different types of food that whales eat. Simply print out the diagram, have your children color in the different fish and plants, and discuss the importance of whales in the ocean ecosystem.
Instructions:
- Print out the whale food chain diagram
- Color in the different fish and plants
- Discuss the importance of whales in the ocean ecosystem
- Review the different types of food that whales eat
Jonah and the Whale Activity 4: Jonah's Prayer Worksheet
This Jonah's prayer worksheet is designed to help children understand the importance of prayer and talking to God. Simply print out the worksheet, have your children read Jonah's prayer, and answer the questions that follow.
Instructions:
- Print out the Jonah's prayer worksheet
- Read Jonah's prayer together as a class
- Answer the questions that follow
- Discuss the importance of prayer and talking to God
Jonah and the Whale Activity 5: Whale Fact Sheet
This whale fact sheet is a fun and educational activity that teaches children about the different types of whales and their habitats. Simply print out the fact sheet, have your children read and answer the questions, and discuss any additional facts they may have learned.
Instructions:
- Print out the whale fact sheet
- Read and answer the questions
- Discuss any additional facts learned
- Review the different types of whales and their habitats
We hope these five free printable Jonah and the Whale activities have been helpful in teaching and entertaining your children. Remember to always supervise and guide your little ones during these activities, and be sure to provide plenty of positive reinforcement and encouragement along the way.
What is the story of Jonah and the Whale about?
+The story of Jonah and the Whale is a biblical tale about a prophet named Jonah who is instructed by God to preach to the people of Nineveh. However, Jonah tries to flee from God's command and is swallowed by a whale. While inside the whale, Jonah prays to God and is eventually spat out onto the shore. He then obeys God's command and preaches to the people of Nineveh, who repent and are saved.
What is the moral of the story of Jonah and the Whale?
+The moral of the story of Jonah and the Whale is the importance of obedience and listening to God's voice. It also highlights God's mercy and forgiveness, demonstrating that everyone deserves a second chance.
What are some fun activities to teach children about Jonah and the Whale?
+Some fun activities to teach children about Jonah and the Whale include arts and crafts, sequencing games, whale food chain diagrams, prayer worksheets, and whale fact sheets. These activities can help children understand the story and its moral in a fun and engaging way.