How to Use Classic Children’s Church Songs to Teach Inclusion

Children’s songs are more than just catchy tunes—they are powerful tools for teaching timeless biblical truths. By incorporating messages of love, kindness, and belonging, these songs can also serve as a foundation for fostering inclusion. “Jesus Loves Me,” “This Little Light of Mine,” “The B-I-B-L-E,” and “Father Abraham” all hold unique opportunities to teach children how to value and celebrate the differences in others. This resource will guide you in using these beloved classics to help create a church environment where every child, regardless of their abilities, feels seen, loved, and included. Let’s discover how these songs can help us live out the heart of Jesus in building a truly welcoming community.

Lyrics:
Jesus loves me, this I know,
For the Bible tells me so.
Little ones to Him belong,
They are weak, but He is strong.

Chorus:
Yes, Jesus loves me!
Yes, Jesus loves me!
Yes, Jesus loves me!
The Bible tells me so.

Overview:
“Jesus Loves Me” is a timeless reminder that God’s love is unconditional and for everyone. Its simple message is perfect for teaching children that their value doesn’t depend on their abilities, strengths, or appearance. The line “They are weak, but He is strong” is a beautiful opportunity to talk about how everyone has different strengths and challenges, but God’s love is constant.

Inclusion Application:
Use this song to reinforce the idea that God loves all people, including those with disabilities. Encourage children to think of ways they can show Jesus’ love by including and helping their peers. For example, they can offer friendship to a classmate who uses a wheelchair or take time to communicate with someone who uses alternative forms of communication. Teaching kids to see value in every individual is a great step toward fostering inclusion.

Inclusion Tips:

• Use visuals, such as pictures or sign language, to accompany the lyrics so children of all learning styles can participate.
• Incorporate a tactile activity like handing out small hearts or crosses to represent Jesus’ love for everyone, regardless of ability.
• Highlight specific examples of God’s love for individuals with disabilities through Bible stories or real-life testimonies.

Lyrics:
This little light of mine, I’m gonna let it shine.
This little light of mine, I’m gonna let it shine.
This little light of mine, I’m gonna let it shine,
Let it shine, let it shine, let it shine.

Hide it under a bushel? No! I’m gonna let it shine.
Hide it under a bushel? No! I’m gonna let it shine.
Hide it under a bushel? No! I’m gonna let it shine,
Let it shine, let it shine, let it shine.

Overview:
“This Little Light of Mine” is a fun, energetic song that teaches kids to be confident in who God made them to be. It’s also a great tool for discussing how everyone has their own light—a unique way to share kindness and love with others.

Inclusion Application:
Talk about how everyone’s light is different but equally important. Some children’s “light” might shine through their kindness, while others might excel in creativity or courage. Use this song to encourage kids to notice and celebrate the light in others, including peers with disabilities. For instance, a child with autism might have a unique perspective to share, or a friend with Down syndrome might light up the room with their smile.

Inclusion Tips:

• Provide glow sticks or small LED lights for children to hold while singing, ensuring participation for kids with limited motor skills.
• Create a “light wall” where children can write or draw ways they can let their light shine in their community, celebrating diverse talents and contributions.
• Use the song as a springboard to teach about different ways children with disabilities contribute to the church family through their unique gifts.

Lyrics:
The B-I-B-L-E,
Yes, that’s the book for me.
I stand alone on the Word of God,
The B-I-B-L-E!

Overview:
“The B-I-B-L-E” is a simple yet powerful reminder that God’s Word is our foundation. It’s also a chance to teach kids about how the Bible guides us in loving and including others, just as Jesus did.

Inclusion Application:
Help children connect the message of this song to the Bible’s teachings about kindness and compassion. Share stories of how Jesus interacted with people who were often excluded, like those who were blind or had leprosy. Emphasize that standing on the Word of God means standing up for others and creating an environment where everyone feels valued and included.

Inclusion Tips:

• Provide accessible Bibles or sensory-friendly storybooks with pictures for children who may struggle with traditional formats.
• Teach a Bible story about Jesus including others (e.g., healing the blind man or the paralyzed man) and relate it to the song’s message.
• Encourage children to act out Bible stories together, ensuring roles are adapted so all abilities are represented and included.

Lyrics:
Father Abraham had many sons,
Many sons had Father Abraham.
I am one of them, and so are you,
So let’s all praise the Lord!

Right arm, left arm, right foot, left foot,
Nod your head, turn around, sit down!

Overview:
“Father Abraham” is a high-energy, interactive song that helps kids understand they are part of God’s big family. Its repetitive and movement-based nature makes it especially engaging and inclusive for children of all abilities.

Inclusion Application:
This song is a great way to reinforce the idea that everyone belongs in God’s family. Discuss how Abraham’s descendants include people from all over the world and with all kinds of differences. Encourage kids to find ways to help others feel like they’re part of the group. For example, adapt the song’s movements to ensure everyone can participate, whether they’re sitting, standing, or using assistive devices. Celebrate how each person brings something special to God’s family.

Inclusion Tips:

• Modify the movements to include seated options or simplified actions so everyone can participate, including those with mobility challenges.
• Create a multilingual or multicultural twist by teaching the song in different languages, celebrating diversity within God’s family.
• Use a world map or visual aids to show how God’s family includes people from every background, helping kids understand global inclusion.