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Prep
2 Minutes
Activity
5 Minutes
Lessons
5 Minutes
Total Time:
Materials
Flashlight or night light
Overiew
Bedtime can be a hard moment for kids—especially if they’ve experienced fear or trauma. This calming flashlight game reminds your child that God’s presence is like a light in the dark, always near and never leaving us. You’ll also help them wind down with a playful “I Spy in the Dark” game, using their senses to explore and connect with the idea that God is present everywhere—even in the quiet, shadowy places.
Step 1
Step 1
Turn Off the Lights
Snuggle into bed or get cozy on the floor with a blanket. Turn off all the lights and hold a flashlight or turn on a night light.
Say: Sometimes the dark can feel a little scary, but did you know that God is like a light? Even when we can’t see Him, He’s always with us.
Step 2
Step 2
Play “God is Near” Flashlight Game
Turn the flashlight on and slowly shine it on different places in the room. Each time you shine it on something (a wall, toy, ceiling, or person), say: God is here… and here… and HERE!
Now hand the flashlight to your child and invite them to play a bedtime version of “I Spy in the Dark.”
Give prompts like:
- Can you find something soft?
- Can you find something you can wear?
- Can you find something you love?
- Can you find something that makes you feel safe?
Each time your child shines the light and finds an object, say together: “God is with me here, too!”
Encourage your child to make up their own “I Spy” prompts as well: “God is with me when I’m under the blanket… God is near when I close my eyes… God is here when I feel scared.”
Step 3
Step 3
Praise & Prayer
Say: You did such a great job! Just like that flashlight helped us see in the dark, God helps us feel brave even when things feel scary. You are never alone—He’s with you in every moment, even while you sleep.
Share the hope of God’s Word and pray together with your child.
Prayer
Dear God, thank You for being our light. Help us remember that we are never alone, even when things feel dark or scary. Thank You for watching over us as we sleep. In Jesus’ name, amen.
