“Shine the Light on the Choice”

A discernment game using a flashlight to help children see clarity, truth, and alignment.

Supplies

• Flashlight (any size; child-held is best)

• Simple cutout shapes (heart, star, circle, footprints) or objects from home

• A dim room or a blanket fort

• Paper + marker (optional for drawing choices or scenarios)

1. Prepare the Space

Dim the room or make a blanket fort to create a clearly visible “dark” area where flashlight beams show up well.

2. Introduce the Light

Hold the flashlight to your heart or the child's heart and say:
“God put a light inside us to help us see clearly. When I shine my light on a choice, I can see what is true.”

Turn the flashlight on.

3. Shine on Shapes

Place the cutout shapes on the wall or floor.

Invite the child to shine the flashlight on one shape at a time.

Say: “The light helps us see the outline clearly — just like truth helps our hearts see what’s right.”

4. Add Choice Scenarios

Now place two shapes down at once — for example:

• A heart = kindness

• A star = courage

• A swirl = “unclear” or “I’m not sure yet”

• A zig-zag = hurtful or unkind choice

Give a simple scenario:
“Your brother wants to play with your toy. What choice feels bright inside your heart?”

Let the child shine the flashlight on the shape they choose.

5. Notice the Outline

As the beam lands, observe together:

• “See how the outline becomes sharp?”

• “See how we can tell what shape it is?”

• “This is what happens when we check with our heart-light.”

6. Optional: Heart Glow Moment

Have the child turn the flashlight toward themselves (chest area) and say: “Truth makes my heart glow.”