Why am I publishing a Christmas post in March? Glad you asked! This post is part of the series of activities for EVERY chapter of the ground breaking Jesus Storybook Bible. A bunch of bloggers have gotten together compile a wonderful resource of hands-on learning activities. You’ve gotta go check it out! (And enter to win your own deluxe copy of the Bible!)
Today, our story focuses on the Wise Men’s experience of the Christmas Nativity. The theme is that Jesus is the King of all kings and that these men traveled a LONG way, over crazy terrain, to give gifts to the most treasured gift of all. 
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Since my son has sensory processing disorder, I use every opportunity for him to get the sensory input he needs, even during Bible time.
I decided to reenact the wise men’s travel with a sensory obstacle course. I used sensory tools we already had on hand. But you can get creative and come up with your own.
Supplies We Used:
Bouncy Donkey
(we used it as a “camel”)
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Decorative Box with weight in it
Dress Up Hats
Big Green Blanket
Instructions:
I laid out the obstacles in four lines: the bouncing “camel”, the mountains/large foam block, the hills/river stones, and the cavern/play tunnel. I covered as much of the objects as I could with a big green blanket to help the boys’ imagination.
First, the boys hopped around on the donkey for some serious proprioceptive input. Then they climbed over the “mountains” and “hills” to challenge their vestibular system.
They pretend to be bringing Jesus some gold, frankincense and myrrh, in a decorative box. I placed a small hand held weight inside so the boys would be doing heavy work while they improved their balance.
Lastly, they crawled through the tunnel to reach Bethlehem. They were so eager to present their gifts to the King of kings.
Want more easy home obstacle courses? Read this post about the essential elements to a GREAT sensory obstacle course.
Julie is a frazzled mom of three tornadoes. As a dorky second-generation homeschooler, she writes about learning and play, natural living, special needs parenting and matters of the heart. She serves an astounding God that radically saved her.
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Corrie Kreisel says
I had to laugh that I found you via Google. 🙂 Thanks, I’ve been looking for an excuse to buy the riverstones — going to use them for an Epiphany party this weekend. Lots of great ideas for my boys here. 🙂
Julie says
Yay Corrie! When google loves me, I’m pretty happy about that!