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Leader Guide

Throwing Activity


  • 16 empty soda cans or empty water bottles
  • Number Page
  • Number List
  • Marker
  • Two tables
  • Four socks
  • Scissors
  • Masking tape
  • Additional leader to lead discussion after each "knock down"

Make one copy of the Number Page.

Cut out the individual number cards.

Make one copy of the Number List.

Cut the sheet in half to make two lists (1–8 list and 9–16 list).  

Tape a number card (1–16) to each bottle or can.

Line up cans 1–8 on one table.

Line up cans 9–16 on the other table—see illustration.

Stand the cans in a straight line or stagger them for more of a challenge.  

Mark or tape a spot on the floor approximately 12 to 15 feet away from each table.

Optional: add an additional closer line for younger children. 

Ball up each sock separately—do not ball socks together.



We’ve been learning about how we can be conquerors in this world through Christ.


Divide the class into two teams; they do not need to be equal. Have each team make a line behind the mark at one of the two tables. 


Let’s play a game about conquering the struggles, sorrows, trials, and troubles that are common in this world. Each numbered can (or bottle) represents a struggle or trial that we need Jesus’ help to overcome. The numbers correspond to a list of trials we will discuss.   

 

Hold up a sock. The socks represent Jesus’ love and strength that supplies the power to conquer. The first player steps to the line and throws one sock to knock down a can—it doesn’t have to fall off the table. When a can is knocked over, we will read the corresponding struggle from a list and briefly discuss each one.

  

Each child gets two chances to try to knock over a can, then his/her turn ends, and the next player takes a turn. If a can is knocked over on the first try, the player’s turn ends. If more than one can is knocked down on a throw, leave just one can down and stand the other can(s) up. If all the cans are knocked over at one table before all the children have had a turn, stand the cans up again and play until all have had a turn. 


After each can is knocked over, have the player shout the number of the can as they travel to pick up the sock(s) thrown. Read the corresponding word to that number and briefly discuss it. Ask the children if this is something they are facing now or have ever faced. They can consider this silently or raise their hands if they are comfortable doing so.


Continue the game until both teams have had a chance to play at each table.


Let’s say today’s SuperTruth together: “I am more than a conqueror through the love of Christ.” 


Conclusion: How did it feel to knock down those troubles that stood in front of us? Empowering, exciting, relieving, encouraging.


When we are honest about the struggles and trials we face and don’t try to hide them from Jesus, He will help us to not only survive but conquer them with His mighty power!


Pray a short prayer and lead the children in asking God to help them overcome whatever they may be facing now or in the coming days.