Teaching Infants and Toddlers

Welcome! Most of the teaching material on this website relates to children aged three and older, but this section is specific to the learning needs of Infants and Toddlers (ages 0-2 years).

• Understanding Infants and Toddlers (ages 0-2)
• Demonstration Video for Teaching Infants and Toddlers

Purpose of the Curriculum:

This class is an introduction to a lifetime journey in which God is exalted and his word is respected. Children learn they are part of a Christian community of faith that loves and appreciates them. Parents are encouraged to participate as teachers and helpers.  

The classroom is safe and clean. The teacher and helpers are loving and tender. Learning is done through sensory experiences, singing and simple words and stories.

Depending on class sizes, children usually move into the pre-school class near their 3^rd birthday.

A Typical 45 Minute Class

Welcome Time  (15 minutes of free play on the floor or mat)

Children gather and settle in so they feel welcome, comfortable and safe. This transition time can include free play, choosing favourite toys, music or singing. Casually steer conversations toward the subject in today’s Bible lesson when appropriate.

Table Time (Bible Lesson) (20 minutes sitting at a table)

Helpers move the children to seats at a table and then quietly step back. The teacher sits across from the children and begins to immediately engage them in the lesson activities. Infants and toddlers will enjoy following the lead of the teacher for the Bible theme of the day. 

• Bible Time:
  During this time, children handle and “read” from little Bibles. 
• Bible Lesson:
  A simple thought or truth from the Bible. This is presented in a way that relates to an infant or toddler’s world. The children engage through singing and sensory activities (hearing, touching, tasting, seeing and smelling).
• Craft:
  (as time allows)
• Prayer and Snack:
  A snack is provided by the teacher. This might be fruit, vegetables or plain crackers. The drink is water from a sippy cup. Children pray before the snack and “help” clean up afterwards. Please discuss your child’s preferences and any allergies or issues.

Time to Settle (10 minutes back on the floor or mat)

Children can give cuddles or feed bottles to baby dolls. Quiet music or nature sounds help settle and calm the children before parents or caregivers arrive to pick them up from class. This enables a positive transition.

Teacher Expectations:

• Prepare the lesson and teaching items before class time
• Minimise distractions during class (the helpers should support the teacher’s interaction with the children by refraining from conversation with the teacher or children and handling outside interruptions)
• Keep the room clean and tidy (including vacuuming when needed), and
• Disinfect items handled by children when the teaching session is completed

Note: Some children settle into bible class more easily than others. This is completely normal and should not stress parents or teachers.

Curriculum Downloads:

You may download and use these infant and toddler lessons free of cost for your personal or church use, but please do not otherwise reproduce or distribute them without direct permission from Mary Nelson at mary@missionbibleclass.org

For more information, see Mission Bible Class Copyright Conditions

• DOWNLOAD: Additional Resources- Songs and Materials
• DOWNLOAD: Lesson Plan Template (A4 size paper)
• DOWNLOAD: Lesson Plan Template (Letter size paper, USA)
• DOWNLOAD: Parent Information for Infant & Toddler Class

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