Palm Sunday is a day of joy and celebration! It marks the day Jesus rode into Jerusalem on a donkey while crowds cheered, waved palm branches, and shouted, “Hosanna!”—just like kids at a parade. Children just like yours were there, singing, smiling, and welcoming Jesus as their King.
In this post, we’ll explore the meaning of Palm Sunday with a simple devotional, fun family activities, and free downloadable coloring pages to help your kids engage with the story. Whether at home or in Sunday school, let’s help children discover the joy of praising Jesus—just like the crowd did on that first Palm Sunday!
Palm Sunday in the Bible
“Jesus was in the center of the procession, and the people all around him were shouting, ‘Praise God for the Son of David! Blessings on the one who comes in the name of the Lord! Praise God in highest heaven!’”
—Matthew 21:9 (NLT)
Jesus didn’t enter Jerusalem like a proud king on a mighty horse. Instead, He chose a humble donkey—showing that He came in peace, not power. He is a King who wants to be close to His people, including children!
When the people saw Him, they waved palm branches and laid their coats on the road like a royal welcome. Their shouts of “Hosanna!” meant “Save us now!”—a cry of hope that Jesus was the Savior God had promised.
Devotional Thought
Step 1: Read the Story Together
Gather your family and read Matthew 21:1-17 aloud. Take turns reading verses – maybe let younger children shout the “Hosannas!” while older kids read the narration. Feel the excitement build as you imagine the scene together!
Step 2: Imagine You Were There
After reading, ask:
- “If you were in the crowd that day, what would you have done? Would you have climbed a tree for a better view? Shouted extra loud?”
- “Why do you think people laid down their coats and palm branches? What would you have placed before Jesus?” (Maybe their favorite toy? A drawing?)
- “How do you think the disciples felt watching this happen? Would you have been surprised Jesus chose a donkey?”
Step 3: Connect to Today
Help kids understand this isn’t just history – Jesus still wants us to welcome Him today! Ask:
- “How can we welcome Jesus like the crowd did? What does it mean to praise Him now?”
- “Jesus came humbly on a donkey – what does that tell us about what kind of King He is?”
Pray Together
“Jesus, just like the crowd welcomed You with palm branches, we welcome You into our lives. You bring peace… and we need it. Help us remember You’re the humble King who came for us. Hosanna! Save us, Jesus! Amen.”
Kid-Friendly Faith Experience: Your Own Hosanna Parade
Bring the story to life with this simple, fun activity:
What You Need:
- Free printable palm leaf coloring page (download below!)
- Crayons, scissors, and tape or a stick/straw
- Worship music (instrumental or singing)
What to Do:
- Color & Create: Let your child color and cut out the palm leaf. Tape it to a stick or straw to make a branch.
- Start the Parade: Play music and march around your home or backyard.
- Shout “Hosanna!” Wave your branches, sing, and celebrate Jesus together!
This hands-on worship helps kids connect their hearts, voices, and actions in praise.
Final Thoughts
Palm Sunday is more than just a story—it’s an invitation. As your kids wave their palm branches and shout “Hosanna,” remind them: Jesus is the King who came just for them.
Celebrate big, keep it simple, and help your children praise the King of Kings this week.
Download for FREE the coloring pages!
