AN ABSTINENCE ACTIVITY 
FOR KIDS
by Noelene Johnsson, Director of Children's Ministries, 
North American Division

ABSTINENCE ACTIVITY
Turn this story into an activity by introducing into the group of kids a guest who will act out the part of the abstainer, although in the activity abstaining should have no connection with sex. For instance, the group may be asked to give their opinion of the pastor's sermon or of the church service as a whole. The abstainer declines to add his comment, saying: "I decline to comment. I will abstain from voting." The teachers can try to bring pressure; "Come now, surely you have an opinion." "You aren't too proud to share your thoughts with us, are you?" "Everyone finds something to say about church!" etc.

The name tags and the donuts should then be provided. The abstainer sits it out. The uncovering of the flower etc. will work. And the "infecting" of everyone. The teachers can move around making sure that everyone's hand is shaken. If powdered sugar from the donuts is on the teachers' hands, the lesson will be even more effective. After the infection speech, the abstainer then stands and holds up his hands palms toward the class and proclaims again his abstinence and that he is not infected.

To debrief, the teacher can ask the kids what the activity tells them about people who engage in free sex. What happens if one is infected? How does this help one to appreciate God's advice (rule) about abstinence outside of marriage?

RESOURCES:

• How & When to Tell Your Kids About Sex by Stanton L. & Brenda B. Jones. NAVPRESS, Colorado Springs, 1994.
• Just Do It! God's Way, by Ron & Karen Flowers
• A Biblical and Research-Based Guide to Education for Premarital Chastity, by Karen Flowers

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