Independence Day Snack for All Ages: Fruit Flags

Kids (and families, too!) can make a fun Independence Day snack as they learn about the United States and freedom in Jesus.

Scripture: Ephesians 1:7; John 17:23

You’ll need:

• Bible
• graham crackers
• whipped topping or white frosting
• blueberries
• strawberries sliced into log, thin strips
• napkins or paper plates
• plastic knives
• small American flag

Independence Day Snack: Fruit Flags

Distribute a napkin or plate with a graham cracker on it to each child. Hold up the small flag.

Say: Today we’re going to make our own United States flags, but these will be special because when we’re all done, we get to eat them. Help kids spread whipped topping or white frosting on the graham crackers.

Say: First, we’re going to make stripes. There are actually 13 stripes, one for each of the 13 original colonies. You might not be able to fit 13 stripes, so just put on as many as you’d like to. Let kids put the strawberries on the crackers for the stripes. Those 13 original colonies are a big part of the freedom story of the United States. 

You know, the red strawberries remind me of something else that was red and brought us freedom. Read Ephesians 1:7.

Next, give kids the blueberries. Say: The stars on the flag represent all the states that make up America. Go ahead and put a few blueberry stars in the corner of your flag. Pause. Those stars are reminders that one of the goals of our country is unity—that’s why we’re called the United States. Living in unity—treating each other like teammates—is just what Jesus wants us to do, too. Right before he died for us, he prayed for us. Read John 17:23.

Embracing Unity and Freedom

Ask:

• Why do you think it’s important to be unified— which means to treat each other well so we act like a team?
• What are ways you can be unified with your friends?
• How do we demonstrate Jesus’ love when we’re unified with others?

Say: Look at your flag and think about all the blessings we have—in our country and also because of Jesus. And think about how you can show unity with others. Let’s pray about those things.

Pray: Dear God, we’re so thankful to have the freedom to worship you however we choose. Help us to show your love by being united with other people. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Looking for more snack ideas? Check out these posts! And for other fun children’s ministry ideas, check out The Humongous Book of Preschool Ideas for Children’s Ministry. In this resource, you’ll find various games, crafts, Bible stories, and more!