Today, we’re looking at the Noah’s Ark story and how one animal in particular can help us bring it to life for kids.

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Welcome to the “Meet an Amazing Animal” series.

God has done some remarkable things through his furry, fuzzy, and funny creations. A talking donkey? A fish carrying around a tax payment in its mouth? A rooster reminder that brought a grown man to his knees?

In this series we’re exploring how God has used animals to make himself and his purposes known. Get all twelve free lessons.

You’ll help your kids experience powerful transformation as they link Bible truths they need with the animals they love.

Let’s get started!


The Noah’s Ark Story

Bible Story:  Noah’s Ark (Genesis 8:6–12)

Animal:  Dove

Lesson Theme:  God Gives Us Hope

Activity:  Hope Mini-Posters

Time: about 10 minutes
Supplies: paper, colored markers

Before kids arrive, make a sample poster that shows what you’re hoping for and reminds you that God is the giver of your hope. Encourage kids to fill in their mini-posters with hopeful doodles, drawings, and words.

As kids work, ASK: What are you hoping will happen in your life? When everyone is finished drawing, SAY: Today we’ll learn about a man who hoped in God.

Teaching Time

Share the Noah’s ark story (Genesis 7:1—8:5 and 8:13–22). Use the following questions to guide discussion.

  • How do you think Noah and his family felt the first two times the dove came back? Why?
  • How about the third time?
  • Think of a promise God made in the Bible. How do you know he’ll keep it?
  • Why does that promise matter to you?
  • Why is it important to hope in God?

Love these lesson ideas? Get 13 lessons filled with activity and teaching ideas in 13 Very Amazing Animals and How God Used Them.