Seeing God's Creation

To help the children appreciate the beauty of God's creation that is around them and respond with thanksgiving

By seeing the beauty and diversity in something as ordinary as a wild flower, the children will deepen their appreciation of God's gifts in creation--a necessary step in becoming good stewards of creation.

• Samples of wild flowers, small garden flowers, or common weeds, like clover--at least one for each child
• Several magnifying glasses
• Paper and pens

• Tell the children that this activity will challenge them to see God's creation in a new way.
• Distribute samples of the flowers to the children.
• Ask the children to closely examine their flowers or weeds.
• Share whatever magnifying glasses are available, asking the children to look even closer at the intricate beauty of their flowers.
• Ask them to share (or write down) at least one thing that they've never seen before.
• When they have finished sharing their responses, ask them to think about the many gifts from God that are all around us and that we so often take for granted.
• Ask them to close their eyes and picture one thing for which they are especially grateful.
• Give them a few seconds to share with God in the silence of their hearts how grateful they are for this gift.
• To end the quiet time, pray Amen.

Nature Smart, Self Smart

Small flowers work better than large ones because it takes more effort to really see the details in their petals and structure.

If there are children in your group with allergies or special needs (physical, visual, hearing, language, or behavioral disabilities), adapt the activity accordingly.