Overview
Select the Right Translation
Look for a child-friendly version like the New International Reader’s Version (NIrV), The Kid’s Quest Bible, Adventure Bible, and The Action Bible are excellent choices that engage young readers.
Be a Role Model
Make Bible reading a visible part of your daily routine. Let your child see you engaging with Scripture regularly, reinforcing its importance.
Practical Application
Teach your child how to use the Bible as a resource for everyday challenges. Help them look up verses that address specific issues they may face.
Focus on Core Truths
Choose a simple Bible truth or verse to repeat often, like “God is love.” This makes it easier for your child to remember and understand.
Engage the Senses
Bring stories to life through role play, crafts, and games. Encourage your child to act out Bible stories or create art based on them.
Encourage Honest Exploration
It’s okay to admit when you don’t have all the answers. Use these moments to teach your child how to find answers in the Bible, fostering a sense of curiosity and trust in God’s wisdom.
Introduce Simple Study Habits
Teach your child how to explore Scripture with basic questions like "Who wrote this?" or "What can I learn from this verse?" This encourages deeper thinking about God’s Word.
Utilize Helpful Resources
Use age-appropriate tools such as kids' Bibles, Bible storybooks, scripture songs, and Christian videos to make learning fun and engaging.
Incorporate Prayer
Regularly pray with your child, asking God to cultivate a love for His Word and to grant them understanding and wisdom as they read and memorize Scripture.
By integrating these practices into your parenting, you’ll help your child develop a lasting love for God’s Word, equipping them with truth and guidance for their lives.
Kindergarten
Podcast:
Development Stage:
This phase is vibrant and filled with memorable remarks. In the midst of this enjoyable interaction, a significant cultural change occurs—school. With the beginning of formal education comes the competition for adult attention.
Expectations:
- Social Development: Your child will begin to form friendships and learn important social skills, like sharing and cooperating.
- Routine Changes: School introduces a new daily routine, including early mornings and structured schedules.
- Learning Milestones: You’ll witness significant growth in literacy and numeracy as they start to read, write, and explore basic math concepts.
- Independence: Kindergartners often seek more independence, which can lead to both proud moments and occasional struggles.
- Emotional Growth: Expect a range of emotions as they navigate new experiences, from joy to frustration.
- Communication: Your child will begin to express themselves more clearly, sharing stories and ideas about their day.
- Homework: While it’s usually minimal, you might start to encounter small assignments that encourage engagement with learning at home.
- Parent Involvement: You’ll likely be invited to participate in school activities, events, and parent-teacher conferences.
- Support Needs: Be prepared to support your child in adjusting to school life, both academically and emotionally.
- Joy and Discovery: Above all, expect plenty of joyful moments as they discover the world around them!
Leaders:
- Jet and Kayla Colson
Resources:
- Parenting with Scripture by Kara Durbin
- Going to Kindergarten Book for Kids: Get Ready for Fun Firsts and Exciting Adventures by Diane Romo
First Grade
Podcast:
Development Stage:
First graders are at a vibrant developmental stage characterized by significant growth in both academic and social skills. At this age, children typically become more independent, eager to take on new challenges in reading, writing, and math. Their curiosity flourishes, leading to countless questions about the world around them. Socially, they start forming deeper friendships and navigating complex interactions, learning important skills like cooperation and conflict resolution. Emotionally, first graders develop greater awareness of their feelings and those of others, contributing to their overall growth and understanding of the world. This stage is marked by joyful exploration and the blossoming of their unique identities.
Expectations:
- Increased Independence: Your child will seek more autonomy and may want to take on tasks by themselves.
- Academic Growth: Expect significant advancements in reading, writing, and math skills as they build on their kindergarten foundation.
- Social Skills Development: First graders will deepen their friendships and learn to navigate social dynamics, including teamwork and conflict resolution.
- Curiosity and Questions: They will ask a lot of questions as their curiosity about the world expands.
- Homework Routine: You may start to see regular homework assignments, which can help reinforce learning at home.
- Emotional Awareness: Your child will become more aware of their own feelings and those of others, leading to better emotional regulation.
- Extracurricular Activities: They might show interest in joining clubs, sports, or other activities outside of school.
- Involvement in School Life: You may be encouraged to participate in school events, volunteer opportunities, and parent-teacher conferences.
- Varied Learning Styles: Your child’s unique learning style will become more apparent, helping you understand how best to support them.
- Joyful Discovery: Overall, expect a year filled with excitement as they explore new concepts and grow in confidence!
Leaders:
- Brett and Elizabeth Clay
Resource:
- What the Bible is All About: Bible Handbook for Kids by Frances Blankenbaker
Second Grade
Podcast:
Development Stage:
At this age, these concrete thinkers are ready to uphold the law in any situation. While life should be fair, it’s perfectly fine for people to be different. Children in this phase represent a wonderful mix of independence and reliance on others.
Expectations:
- Enhanced Academic Skills: Your child will continue to build on their reading, writing, and math skills, often tackling more complex concepts.
- Greater Independence: They’ll seek more autonomy in their schoolwork and daily activities, wanting to make decisions and solve problems on their own.
- Social Relationships: Friendships will become increasingly important, and your child may start to navigate more complex social dynamics and group interactions.
- Emotional Growth: Expect your child to become more aware of their emotions and those of others, leading to improved empathy and conflict resolution skills.
- Increased Homework: Homework may become more regular and varied, encouraging responsibility and time management.
- Curiosity and Exploration: Second graders are often eager to explore new interests and ideas, so encourage their curiosity through discussions and activities.
- Interest in Learning Styles: You’ll start to notice how your child learns best, which can help you support their educational journey.
- Engagement in School Activities: Look for opportunities to get involved in school events, field trips, and volunteer activities.
- Development of Critical Thinking: They’ll begin to think more critically about what they learn and ask deeper questions.
- Joyful Discovery: Overall, expect a year filled with growth, learning, and fun as your child continues to explore the world around them!
Leaders:
- Matt and Halie Deckard
Resource:
- What Does the Bible Say About That? by Carolyn Larsen