Growing Gains

With each added year, a child gains potential to understand more about God. But how much is your child ready for and when? Like many other lessons, a child’s faith progresses in steps. Here’s an easy guide for giving your child age-appropriate spiritual teaching.

From 0 to 2

Children first become aware of God around age 2. It’s important to talk about who God is with these little ones. Use natural and other “touchable” things to talk about God’s characteristics. Images of God hold fast, so make sure they have an accurate, loving portrayal.

At this age children can understand that God is the Creator and that God and Jesus love them.

From 3 to 4

Children get interactive at this point, so you can teach children about biblical characters. Kids at this age also start to develop a sense of right and wrong. Make God the foundation of their consciences.

In this age group children can understand that Jesus is sad when they’re bad and that the Bible is God’s Word. They can also learn Bible stories and verses.

From 5 to 6

By this time children understand that the Bible applies specifically to their lives. Kids at this age may be ready to trust Jesus to be their personal Savior. Be ready to answer their questions and encourage their development but don’t develop on behalf of them.

At this age children can understand who God is and what He’s done for them. They can comprehend that people in the Bible served God individually and that they can, too. Children understand that they can talk to God any time they want.

From 7 to 8

Here come the tough questions! Children at this age start to doubt and seek their own answers. But questions just show that your child is maturing, so don’t worry that it means he or she has taken a spiritual step back. This process will enable your children to follow God on their own instead of just following examples of faith.

During this stage children can understand that God is working in their lives and all over the world. They can also see that the Commandments are hard to follow, and they need Jesus for help.

From 9 to 10

During these years are some good opportunities to probe your child’s faith. Read about Judas’ betrayal of Jesus and his subsequent suicide. Ask them if Judas was really sorry. (Remember, repentance means a 180-degree turn or a change in behavior, not running away from the problem or saving face.)

At this age children can understand that they’re responsible for their decisions because the Bible defines right and wrong. They can see that the Bible is a story of God working in His people’s lives, and they’re part of that story.

From 11 to 14

If 7- and 8-year-olds ask tough questions, they’re nothing compared to a teenager! These youth may start to question the basics of Christianity. What if Jesus didn’t really raise from the dead? What if my Jewish friend is right that everyone worships the same God anyway? Encourage your child to investigate questions and move on to more advanced levels of thought.

Youth of this age can understand that being a Christian is an identity that should affect everything they do. They can see that the Bible is filled with people just like them, and those stories are comforts and sources of inspiration.

For more about understanding and being prepared for your child’s development, check out this article from Christian Parenting Today.