THE GIFT BOX GAME
- Play a game to anticipate getting a good gift.
  Supplies Needed:
  1. CD Player
  2. CD of praise music
  3. 4 boxes
  4. Wrapping paper
  5. Scissors
  6. Tape
  7. Bow
  8. 1 treat per child
  Instructions:
  1. Wrap 4 varied size presents; each one being able to fit in the other (like a Russian doll that fits inside a larger doll.).
  2. SAY, "I have a treat for you today.  Let's play a game to find out what it is.  When I start the music, pass the box around the circle.  When I stop the music, we'll see who's holding the box."  (Play the CD, and let the children pass the box.  Stop the music whenever you please.)
  3. ASK, "What do you think is in the box?"  "Why do you think I would give you [whatever the children named]?"  (Let the child holding the box open the first box.  let the children react to finding another box inside.  Play the game again.)
  4. ASK, "What would you do if I put spiders in the box?"  "What do you think you will find in the box this time?"  (Let the child holding the box open it.  Let the children react to finding another box inside.  Play the game again.)
  5. ASK, "Why do you think I wouldn't put spiders in the box?"  "What will you do if the box is empty?"  (Let the child holding the box open it.  Let the children react to finding yet another box inside.  Play the game one more time, but don't let the children know it's the last time.)
  6. ASK, "What do you think I put in that box?"  (Let the child open the box and give the treats to everyone.)
  7. SAY, "I would never give you something as scary as spiders, because I love you too much for that.  I would never give you an empty box instead of of a promised treat.  I gave you a good gift because I care for you."
  8. ASK, "Why does God give good gifts?"
  9. SAY, "God loves us too much to give us anything harmful or bad.  God shows His care by giving us the things we need, just as He promised He would.  God gives good gifts because He loves us."  (Let the children enjoy the treats you've provided.)