Educators seem split on the argument of whether or not worksheet activities like word searches, crossword puzzles, mazes, word scrambles, etc. have value in the classroom (which, for purposes of this site, also includes children's ministry and Sunday School rooms).
Aren't they just taking up time that could be used for better things?
Maybe. But maybe not.
Sure, if a teacher only has so much time to teach a lesson, having students complete a worksheet may not be the best use of time. However, these activities can provide benefits.
Some ways in which worksheet-type puzzles may help:
Reinforce key ideas and vocabulary terms from lessons
Remind students of characters and situations in stories
May give students opportunities for hands-on experience with their Bibles
May help with concentration
May help with fine motor skills and language development
May help with critical thinking and problem-solving skills
Provides a fun activity to go along with a lesson
So how do I best use these types of activities in my children's ministry classroom?
Use class time for other activities, then send students home with activity pages so they can have fun with them later in the week
Use them as supplemental activities if the church service runs long and you've already completed your entire lesson
Use them as part of your main lesson if they support your learning objectives
Use them to relate to the pastor's weekly sermon, if students attend "big" church
Use them as fun giveaways during special events like Trunk-or-Treat or Easter events
Looking for fun activity pages to use in your ministry? Check out our Free Resources and Premium Resources!