Optional Opening Game

Self-control means resisting temptation and doing what you know is right. In this game, you will practice self-control by listening and watching to know when to go, slow down, and stop.

Hold up each sign and ask children what they mean.

Tell children that they must listen and watch carefully during the game so they can show self-control and do the right thing.

Have children stand with lots of room between them.

Start the game. Hold up the GO Sign and shout, “GO!” Children can walk around, dance, run in place, jump, walk, etc., as long as they do so safely.

After a moment, hold up the SLOW Sign and shout, “SLOW!” Children should continue their movements but slow down.

After a moment, hold up the “STOP” Sign and shout, “STOP!” Children should immediately stop and stand in place until the “GO” sign is held up. Continue playing, varying the time between signs and the order by going directly to STOP from GO or from SLOW to GO, etc.

Note: Children may change their movements at any time during the game.

Optional: Tell the children what movements to make each time, such as hop on one foot, pat your head, make arm circles, etc.

Optional: If you have an assistant or helper, play the “Self-Control” song on “GO,“ then stop the song on “STOP.”

Conclusion: Good job controlling yourselves! Controlling yourself means you are using self-control. Sometimes it is difficult to use self-control, especially when you are having fun. It can be difficult to slow down or stop when all you want to do is GO!

Let’s watch our video about four men who practiced self-control so they could resist temptation and do what they knew was right to please God.