ACTIVITY: The Extra Mile
WHAT YOU NEED:
Painter’s or masking tape, or items you can use as placeholders
What You Do
Using the tape, mark five places on the floor to create a large circle. Place them as far apart as the room allows (like a baseball diamond with an extra “base”).
Tell your child that you’re going to name a task or chore, and it’s their job to think of a way to take it the “extra mile.” When they think of a way to go the extra mile, they run to the next marker on the floor and shout it out. Call out the next task; let your child go to the next marker and shout out a way to go the extra mile for THAT task. Repeat until they’re back at the original marker.
For example: “I have to load the dishwasher after dinner.” To go the extra mile, your child would run to the next marker on the floor and shout out, “I could empty the dishes when they’re finished washing!”
Tasks (use this list and/or come up with some that are more relevant to your family):
I have to make my bed. (I can make my sister’s bed, too.)
I have to do my homework. (I can do it without complaining. I can thank whoever helps me.)
I have to brush my teeth. (I can do it without being asked.)
I have to sweep the floors. (I can vacuum the carpet, too.)
I have to play with my younger sibling. (I can make sure to play his favorite game.)
Talk about the Bible Story
What does it mean to “go the extra mile”? (to do more than you have to do)
Why is going the extra mile a great way to show kindness? (It shows people that we value them.)
When has someone gone the extra mile for you? How did it feel?
What can you do this week to go the extra mile? Think about homework, schoolwork, friendships, chores at home, relationships with family, sports practice, instrument practice, etc.
Parents, share an example of when someone went the extra mile for you.
Prayer
Use this prayer as a guide, either after your discussion or right before bed tonight:
“Dear God, thank You for this important truth Jesus taught about kindness. We know You were kinder to us than You had to be when You sent us Jesus . . . and that makes us want to do the same for others. Please help us think of ways we can do an unexpected, extra-kind thing for someone else. We love You. In Jesus’ name we pray, amen.”