APPROACH TO LEARNING
We believe that knowing stories about Jesus and actually knowing Him are different! As children begin to learn more about Jesus’ heart of compassion, truthfulness, empathy, obedience, gentleness, humility, love and more, these character traits can’t help but overflow from their own lives and into those around them.
Rather than compartmentalizing Jesus into a Bible story once a day or with a quick prayer before meals, we want Him to permeate every aspect of our schedules. But, as educators, we know your plates are full, so we make teaching Jesus simple by shifting our focus to one word a month. Each of the monthly activities are standard based and all point students back to this one Word of Wisdom (WOW Word) which gives way to a deeper understanding of Jesus’ character. This intentional focus allows for individual growth as children begin to notice opportunities to use this new WOW Word in their daily routine.
You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart.
Jeremiah 29:13
GOALS
It is our prayer and desire that each student using this curriculum would
1
Know and Love
God’s word.
2
Be able to describe and identify character traits of Jesus.
3
Demonstrate Jesus’ character to others.
PLAN OF ACTION
MONTHLY TEACHER’S GUIDES
Each guide provides direction and activities for the eight WOW Words. Because the beginning of school is often busy getting to know classmates and learning a new schedule, we recommend starting the first WOW Word in September and using May as a review for all of the WOW Words.
YEAR 2 GUIDES
STUDENT BENEFITS
This curriculum was created to meet the needs of various learning styles through literacy, hands- on activities and movement. Click below for a detailed overview of all components included in our curriculum.
Research has shown that while academic skills are necessary for a strong foundation, social and emotional learning gives children a way to use this knowledge as they interact and develop long lasting relationships with a diverse group of peers and adults. The Character Builds Joy Curriculum focuses on nurturing the heart, mind, and soul.
Bible Story Peg People
Chapel
Chapel is a time where everyone at school can come together to sing songs, pray, and hear a Bible story centered around each month’s WOW Word! If you are interested in beginning or reinvigorating a chapel time at your school, we would love to provide you with the resources you need.
Chapel Music Resources:
Kirsten Shive is a music teacher and worship leader with a unique gift for putting together movements and songs that reinforce Biblical truths in an engaging and memorable way. Since 2017, she has taught preschool music at Judson Weekday Ministries, where she currently plans and leads the music for chapel. She also serves in the worship ministry at her local church and writes word-for-word Scripture songs with her husband Josh. Kirsten is highly organized and has created fifteen-minute chapel plans broken down minute by minute, so that everyone’s experience in chapel can be efficient and intentional. Kirsten loves to collaborate with other teachers, music teachers, and worship leaders to plan chapel programs according to their needs. If you would like to consult with Kirsten about chapel planning or resources such as lyrics, music, and hand motions, you can contact her here.
Chapel Bible Story Resources:
Erin has written three minute scripts to introduce preschool students to each WOW Word in language they can understand! After introducing the new WOW Word, a Bible story is shared using felt, minimal props, and large Bible story peg people. Some Bible story scripts are adapted from Godly Play and can be downloaded here for free. Other scripts Erin and Coco have written to focus on a specific WOW Word. Those scripts can be purchased here.
WOW Word Library
WE’RE HERE TO
HELP YOU
THE BASIC
Digital download of eight Teacher’s Guides for use with up to 150 students. $1125
Additional licenses may be purchased for schools with more students.
THE BUNDLE
Digital download of eight Teacher’s Guides, 10 sets of classroom Bible Story Peg People, 2 hour teacher training. $1,875
*Travel costs may apply for schools outside of the Nashville area.
Mr. Marc was our next door neighbor and often played songs on his guitar as the boys ran around in the backyard. As part of the Speer Family, he grew up singing gospel music and continues using his gifts to record hymns for CB&J today! These hymns are a timeless way to remind children about the character of Jesus, and we are grateful to be able to share these with you.