Curriculum for Infants and Toddlers (Ages 0-2)

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Teaching Infants and Toddlers

Welcome! Most of the teaching material on this website is for children aged 3 and older, but this section is specifically for Infants and Toddlers (ages 0-2 years).

Purpose of the Curriculum:

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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 and natural groupings, children usually move into the pre-school class after their 3^rd birthday. If the teacher is considerate of learning needs, three-year-olds can still enjoy this curriculum.

Teacher and Helper Expectations:

Show respect for parents, children and God at all times.
Prepare the lesson and teaching items before children arrive.
Record attendance.
Serve only simple snacks. Note food allergies and what children are allowed to eat or drink.
Minimise distractions during class. Helpers support the teacher’s interaction with the children. Refrain from conversation while the teacher is engaged with children.
Keep the room and contents safe, clean and tidy (including vacuuming when needed)
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.

A Typical 45 Minute Class

1. 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.

2. 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.

3. TIME TO SETTLE (10 minutes back on the floor or mat)

Children can give cuddles or feed baby dolls with bottles. 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.

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