This month, we’re sharing one of our favorite summertime lessons for preschoolers: The Secret of the Watermelon—a visual, Gospel-rich story illustrated by Precious Moments artist Sam Butcher, originally published through CEF Press.
This powerful lesson uses the layers of a watermelon to share the Gospel:
- The gold blossom that the watermelon starts as shows how holy God is.
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The dark seeds show our sin.
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The red fruit points to Jesus’ blood that was shed.
- The white between the red and green shows us how Jesus can make us clean from sin.
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And the green rind reminds us of how we can grow in Christ once we put our faith and trust in Him for salvation.
With songs, crafts, visuals, and Scripture repetition, this lesson is packed with opportunities to engage little minds and hearts in meaningful ways.
Whether you’re a parent, grandparent, or preschool teacher, these resources will help you teach the Gospel clearly, joyfully, and memorably this summer!
Preschool Lesson Demo: The Secret of the Watermelon
Watch how we adapt this CEF Press lesson for preschool-aged children using visuals, Gospel tools, and repetition to bring the story to life.
Watch the lesson demo here:
Request the lesson plan & resources here
Songs to Reinforce the Lesson
Music is one of the best ways to help preschoolers remember truth! Use these songs throughout the summer to keep the message of salvation sweet and simple.
1. Nothing But the Blood
This preschool version of the classic hymn helps children understand that it’s not good deeds or trying hard that saves us—it’s only Jesus’ blood.
2. Acts 16:31 Memory Verse Song
This song helps little ones memorize the powerful truth of salvation straight from Scripture.
3. Summer Fun Song (adapted from The Secret of the Watermelon)
This cheerful song celebrates both summer fun and Bible time, making it perfect for VBS, backyard Bible clubs, or family devotionals.
4. If You Tell Two People
A fun missionary-themed song that teaches the power of multiplication in spreading the Gospel. As kids sing, they begin to see how their voice can help God’s family grow!
Ideas to Extend the Lesson:
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Let kids finger paint a watermelon craft using red, green, white, and black paints.
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Use a real watermelon to “reveal the Gospel” as you cut it open during the lesson and then serve it as a snack afterwards!
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Add Gospel bracelets or watermelon-themed crafts as take-home memory tools.
We’re Here to Help!
Want more training on how to teach lessons like this one? Be sure to join our monthly preschool ministry training for inspiration, resources, and encouragement!
Register for the next free Zoom training here
We pray that this simple, sweet lesson plants Gospel seeds in the hearts of the children you love and lead this summer!