25 Lenten Activity Ideas For Kids - Learn About Easter, Pray, Be Kind
As Lent approaches, it’s the perfect time to help children slow down, reflect, and engage in simple yet meaningful ways. Lent is not only about fasting; it’s about preparing our hearts for Easter through prayer, acts of kindness, learning, and family togetherness. These activities are designed to be approachable, fun, and adaptable to your family’s schedule.
One way to make Lent extra special is to create an Lent activity jar. Write each activity on a small piece of paper, fold them, and place them in a jar. Each day (or week), draw one activity together and enjoy it as a family. Not only does this make Lent interactive, but it also encourages children to look forward to acts of kindness, learning, and creativity.
For those who want a ready-made solution, we also offer a set of 40 Lent activity cards featuring a mix of crafts, prayers, giving opportunities, and reflection prompts. These cards take the guesswork out of planning and can be enjoyed by children of all ages.
25 Lent Activity Card Ideas for Kids
Here’s a collection of activities to try with your family, with tips to make them more engaging:
- Read an Easter book. Pick a story that explains the meaning of Easter in a child-friendly way. Ask your child what they learned afterward.
- Learn an Easter song. Singing together is a joyful way to remember the story of Jesus’ resurrection.
- Write down ways you can be a good friend. Encourage children to share these ideas and put them into practice during the week.
- Learn how eggs symbolise the resurrection of Jesus and new life. Try a fun craft by decorating eggs while discussing the symbolism.
- Read a Bible story as a family. Choose a story about Jesus, the disciples, or acts of kindness and talk about the lesson.
- Research a Saint. Pick a saint each week and discuss their life and acts of faith.
- Read the story of the Last Supper. Reflect on what Jesus taught about love, service, and humility.
- Dress in purple and learn why purple is important. Explain that purple symbolises penance and preparation during Lent.
- Light a candle at Church and pray for someone you love. A quiet moment of prayer teaches children about intention and gratitude.
- Pray for those less fortunate. Talk about empathy and how prayers can include people in need.
- Make a list of things you are thankful for. Gratitude helps children focus on blessings rather than wants.
- Don’t eat anything sweet today. A small sacrifice teaches self-control and reminds us of Jesus’ sacrifices.
- Go a whole day without saying something negative. Encourage kindness in words as well as actions.
- Volunteer your time to help someone. Even small acts of service make a big difference in your community.
- Create a Crown of Thorns and talk about it as a family. A hands-on way to understand Jesus’ suffering and sacrifice.
- Build a Lenten Cross. Use paper, sticks, or craft supplies to create a cross to display at home.
- Make a piece of art that represents Easter to you. Encourage creativity while reflecting on the meaning of the season.
- Make homemade pretzels to share. The shape can symbolise arms crossed in prayer, and sharing teaches generosity.
- Make a cross with objects you can find in nature. Stones, sticks, or leaves can help connect kids with God’s creation.
- Do something kind for the planet. Plant a flower, pick up litter, or save water as an act of stewardship.
- Donate some food. Explain to children how food donations help families in need.
- Fill a box of toys to donate. Choosing toys to give encourages generosity and thoughtfulness.
- Do a chore without being asked. A simple way to practice responsibility and service at home.
- Make an Easter basket for a friend. Thoughtful gifts build friendships and show love in action.
- Start a jelly bean jar. Earn a jelly bean for good deeds and small sacrifices, then enjoy them together on Easter.
Bringing Lent to Life
By integrating these activities into your family’s daily or weekly routine, Lent becomes more than a countdown to Easter—it becomes a time for reflection, growth, and connection. Children not only learn about faith but also experience the joy of helping others, expressing gratitude, and celebrating Jesus’ resurrection.
Whether you use an activity jar, our 40 Lent activity cards, or simply pick a few favourites from the list, these ideas can create meaningful memories for years to come.
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