5 Creative Ways to Teach Kids the True Meaning of Easter

Written By Jenny Stainback

Image by: Canva

Jesus Christ’s sacrifice on the cross is the foundation of the Christian faith, but it can easily get overshadowed by chocolate bunnies, colorful eggs, and all the fun Easter festivities. It is important to help kids understand the true meaning of Easter. Jesus suffered and died for our sins, and He was resurrected. He has earned the spotlight in our celebration.

But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us. —Romans 5:8 (KJV)

And God hath both raised up the Lord, and will also raise up us by his own power. —1 Corinthians 6:14 (KJV)

Here are five fun and creative tools that can help kids learn about Jesus’ death, resurrection, and the hope we have in Him.

1. Resurrection Eggs – The Easter Story Inside the Eggs

A set of twelve colorful plastic eggs, Resurrection Eggs contain a small symbol inside each one that represents a part of the Easter story—from Palm Sunday to resurrection morning. As kids open the eggs one by one, you can tell the meaning of where the item fits into the Easter story.

You might find the following items inside the eggs:

  • A cross (Jesus’ sacrifice)

  • A small donkey (Jesus enters Jerusalem)

  • A silver coin (Judas’ betrayal)

  • A crown of thorns (Jesus’ suffering)

  • A stone (rolled away from the tomb)

  • An empty egg (Jesus is risen!)

Bonus tip: You can also put Christian-themed wrapped candy and faith-related stickers in other eggs to add fun to your Easter egg hunt.

2. Flying Kites – Symbolic of Jesus’ Resurrection and the Holy Spirit

I always enjoyed flying a kite as a child, and Easter is perfect timing with spring’s windy days. It might seem simple, but flying a kite can be a beautiful picture of Jesus’ death and resurrection. When a kite rises into the sky, it reminds us Jesus rose from the grave and gives us the gift of the Holy Spirit.

Another example of symbolism is to explain the kite itself symbolizes the believer, the cross shape of the frame symbolizes the sacrifice of Jesus Christ, and the winds symbolize the Holy Spirit. Be sure to select a kite with a cross-shaped frame.

How to use it:

  • Plan an “Easter Kite Day” with family or a church group.

  • Before flying, share a short devotional about how Jesus rose and gives us new life.

  • Let the kids decorate their kites with messages like “He is Risen!” or “Jesus Lives!”

Bonus Tips: 1. A kite makes a great Easter gift or basket stuffer for children. 2. A chocolate cross is a great replacement for a chocolate bunny in an Easter basket.

3. Crafts That Keep Christ in Easter – Creativity While Honoring Jesus Christ

Craft activities help build fine motor skills, encourage creativity, and reinforce learning concepts. Crafts make truth visible for kids. Sharing the message of the cross and Jesus’ resurrection while children are crafting can help them remember the significance of Jesus’ sacrifice.

Here are some fun Easter-themed craft ideas:

  • Empty Tomb Scene: Use a shoebox, a stone, and some felt or moss to create the scene of the resurrection.

  • Stained Glass Crosses: Use contact paper and tissue paper to make colorful crosses for windows.

  • Cross Necklaces or Jewelry: Search your favorite retailer for cross jewelry kits.

Bonus Tip: Display the craft where kids can reflect on the meaning of what they have made.

4. Faith-Based Books & Movies – Story Time with a Message

Books and movies help educate kids on biblical truth in an enjoyable way. Whether it is story time before bed or a family movie night, media can help reinforce the resurrection story.

Great books to consider:

  • It’s Cool To Be A Christian by Jenny Stainback

  • Benjamin’s Box (pairs perfectly with Resurrection Eggs!)

Movies for younger audiences:

  • The Story of Easter (The Beginner’s Bible)

  • The Easter Story for Kids (Minno)

Bonus tip: Talk with your child about the message after reading or watching. Ask: “What was your favorite part?” or “What did you learn about Jesus?”

5. Church – Experiencing Easter in Community

While fun tools at home are great, celebrating Easter with others at church can improve a child’s understanding of Jesus’ death, burial, and resurrection. Taking your children to Sunday School, church services, and Christian Easter programs helps them connect the story of Jesus as the true meaning of Easter with other believers.

Ways to engage at church:

  • Attend a Good Friday or Easter Sunday service together.

  • Get involved in a family-friendly Easter event or outreach.

  • Let your child participate in an Easter play or music program.

It is easy to let Easter become about the Easter Bunny, egg hunts, and family dinners. But with just a little effort, you can help your child discover the true joy of Jesus’ resurrection. Whether through hands-on crafts, fun outdoor activities, meaningful books, or worship at church, every moment can point them back to Jesus’ sacrifice and God’s love for us.

We can have everlasting life because Jesus paid it all! He deserves celebration, honor, and glory.

He is not here, but is risen. —Luke 24:6 (KJV)

Enjoy keeping Jesus Christ at the center of Easter this year.

By: Jenny Stainback

Jenny Stainback https://jennystainback.com
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Tips for Sharing the Gospel of Jesus