### Flavorful Faith: Choosing Candy with Care
**Objective:** Help young children understand the importance of moderation and self-control when it comes to eating candy, using biblical principles and fun activities.
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#### Opening Prayer
Dear God, thank You for the delicious gifts You give us, like candy! Help us learn how to enjoy our treats wisely and to take care of our bodies. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
#### Bible Verse
*“Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above…”* – James 1:17 (ESV)
### Lesson Introduction
Today, we’re going to talk about candy! Candy is sweet and fun, but just like everything else, it’s important to eat it in the right amounts. Can anyone tell me their favorite candy? (Allow children to share.) Isn’t it yummy? But remember, too much candy isn’t good for us!
### Discussion
1. **Understanding Moderation:**
– Discuss what moderation means. You can explain that it means not eating too much of something, even if it’s something we love.
– Use the example of fruit. “How many apples can we eat?” (Encourage answers, emphasizing moderation.)
2. **Biblical Principle of Self-Control:**
– Share how the Bible teaches us about self-control. Mention Galatians 5:22-23, where it says that the fruit of the Spirit includes self-control.
– Ask the children: “What can we do when we want to eat more candy than we should? How can we show self-control?”
3. **God’s Gift of Candy:**
– Reinforce the idea that candy is a good gift from God. However, just like everything in life, we should use it wisely.
– Talk about how God wants us to take care of our bodies (1 Corinthians 6:19-20).
### Activity: Candy Count!
– **Materials Needed:** Different types of candy, small cups or bags, and a means to keep track (like a piece of paper).
– **Instructions:**
– Each child can pick a small amount of candy (one or two pieces).
– Ask them to share why they think it’s good to have a limited amount.
– Once everyone has their candy, discuss how they might feel if they had too much candy versus just the right amount.
### Craft: Candy Reminder Jar
– **Materials Needed:** Small jars, colored paper, markers, and candies (for decoration).
– **Instructions:**
– Let the children decorate the jars with their names and drawings.
– Explain that these jars can hold their candy, but they will use this jar to remind themselves to practice moderation.
– Encourage them to keep their candy jars in a special place at home to remember to share and enjoy candy wisely.
### Conclusion
– Summarize what you’ve learned about moderation and caring for our bodies.
– Remind them that God gives us many good things, and it’s our job to enjoy them in a healthy way.
– Emphasize that having a little candy can be delightful, but it’s best for our bodies and minds when we choose it with care.
### Closing Prayer
Dear Heavenly Father, thank You for all the sweet things You give us. Help us to enjoy them and remember to practice moderation. May we always honor You with our choices. We love You! Amen.
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### Take-Home Activity
– Encourage parents to talk with their children about candy choices and to help them remember what they learned in class about moderation and self-control!