How to Introduce Jesus to Children

Introducing Jesus to children can be a rewarding experience.

It’s about sharing love, faith, and the foundational stories of Christianity in a way that’s engaging and understandable.

Here’s a guide to help you navigate this important task.

1. Start with Stories

Children love stories.

The Bible is full of them, and many are perfect for kids.

Creation Story:

Start with the story of creation.

Explain how God created the world in six days and rested on the seventh.

Use colorful pictures or a children’s Bible to make it vivid.

Noah’s Ark:

Kids are fascinated by animals.

Tell them about Noah’s Ark and how Noah saved the animals from the flood.

David and Goliath:

This story shows that with faith in God, even the smallest person can overcome great challenges.

Storytelling Tips

Keep it Simple:

Use simple language.

Avoid complex theological terms.

Be Animated:

Use different voices for characters.

Make it lively.

Ask Questions:

Engage them by asking what they think will happen next.

2. Use Visual Aids

Visual aids can help make stories more engaging and easier to understand.

Children’s Bibles:

These often have colorful illustrations that bring the stories to life.

Storybooks:

There are many Christian storybooks designed for children that simplify and illustrate biblical stories.

Videos:

Animated Bible stories are available on platforms like YouTube.

They can be a fun way to introduce stories.

Recommended Resources

The Beginner’s Bible:

A classic with simple stories and illustrations.

Jesus Storybook Bible:

Every story points to Jesus, making it a cohesive read.

Superbook:

An animated series that covers many Bible stories.

3. Make it Interactive

Interactive activities can reinforce what they learn.

Crafts:

Create simple crafts related to the stories.

For instance, make a rainbow after telling the story of Noah’s Ark.

Games:

Play games that incorporate Bible stories.

For example, a David and Goliath slingshot game using paper balls.

Songs:

Kids love music.

Teach them simple songs about Jesus.

“Jesus Loves Me” and “This Little Light of Mine” are great starters.

Activity Ideas

Story Reenactments:

Act out Bible stories with costumes and props.

Memory Verses:

Teach them simple Bible verses and reward them for memorization.

Prayer Journals:

Encourage them to draw or write their prayers.

4. Relate Jesus to Everyday Life

Help children see how Jesus and His teachings apply to their lives.

Kindness:

Explain how Jesus was kind and ask them to think of ways they can be kind too.

Sharing:

Use the story of the loaves and fishes to talk about sharing.

Forgiveness:

Discuss how Jesus forgives and why it’s important to forgive others.

Practical Examples

Helping Others:

Suggest simple ways they can help, like donating toys or helping a friend.

Being Honest:

Relate to the story of Zacchaeus, showing how honesty is valued.

Praying:

Encourage them to pray about their day, friends, and family.

5. Answer Their Questions

Children are naturally curious and will have many questions.

Be Honest:

If you don’t know the answer, it’s okay to say so.

Look it up together.

Keep it Age-Appropriate:

Tailor your answers to their age and understanding.

Encourage Curiosity:

Make it clear that asking questions is good and part of learning.

Common Questions

Who is Jesus?

Explain that Jesus is God’s son who came to show us how to live and to save us.

Why did Jesus die?

Simplify it:

He died to show us how much He loves us and to take away our sins.

What is Heaven?

Describe it as a wonderful place where we will be with God forever.

6. Lead by Example

Children learn a lot by watching adults.

Pray Together:

Show them how to pray by praying with them.

Read the Bible Together:

Make it a habit to read a Bible story together daily.

Live Your Faith:

Demonstrate your faith through your actions.

Show kindness, patience, and love in your daily life.

Everyday Practices

Morning Prayers:

Start the day with a short prayer together.

Thankfulness:

Encourage them to thank God for something every day.

Church Attendance:

Take them to church and Sunday school.

7. Use Daily Moments

Look for teachable moments in daily life.

Nature:

Point out the beauty of God’s creation during a walk in the park.

Challenges:

When they face a problem, remind them to pray and trust God.

Celebrations:

During holidays like Christmas and Easter, explain their significance in a way they can understand.

Teachable Moments

Bedtime Stories:

Use bedtime as a quiet time to tell Bible stories.

Mealtime Prayers:

Thank God for the food before meals.

Crisis Moments:

When they are scared or sad, pray with them and talk about God’s comfort.

8. Be Patient

Remember, faith grows over time.

Don’t rush or force it.

Be patient and let them come to understand at their own pace.

Consistent Exposure:

Regularly expose them to Bible stories and Christian principles.

Positive Reinforcement:

Praise them for showing interest or understanding something new.

Encourage Exploration:

Let them explore and express their faith in their own way.

Long-Term Approach

Daily Devotionals:

Short daily devotionals can be a great habit.

Christian Role Models:

Surround them with positive Christian influences.

Faith Discussions:

Have regular, casual discussions about faith and Jesus.

Conclusion

Introducing Jesus to children is about more than just telling stories; it’s about living your faith in a way they can see and understand.

Use stories, visual aids, and interactive activities to make learning about Jesus fun and engaging.

Relate Jesus to their everyday life and be ready to answer their questions.

Most importantly, lead by example and be patient as their faith grows.

Through these steps, you can help lay a strong, loving foundation of faith in their young hearts.

FAQs: How to Introduce Jesus to Children

1. Why is it important to introduce Jesus to children?

Introducing Jesus to children lays a foundation of faith, love, and moral values that can guide them throughout their lives.

It helps them understand Christian teachings and builds a strong spiritual base.

2. What are some good Bible stories to start with?

Creation Story
Noah’s Ark
David and Goliath
Jesus’ Birth
Jesus Feeds the 5,000

These stories are engaging and have clear moral lessons that children can understand.

3. How can I make Bible stories more engaging for children?

Use colorful children’s Bibles or storybooks.
Incorporate visual aids like videos and illustrations.
Be animated and use different voices for characters.
Ask questions to keep them engaged and thinking.

4. What types of activities can reinforce Bible lessons?

Crafts related to the stories, like making a rainbow after Noah’s Ark.
Games that incorporate elements from the stories.
Singing simple Christian songs like “Jesus Loves Me.”
Acting out Bible stories with costumes and props.

5. How do I relate Jesus’ teachings to everyday life for children?

Discuss the importance of kindness, sharing, and forgiveness using Bible stories.
Encourage practical applications like helping others, being honest, and praying.
Use everyday moments to highlight God’s presence and teachings.

6. How should I handle difficult questions about faith and Jesus?

Be honest if you don’t know the answer and look it up together.
Tailor your answers to be age-appropriate.
Encourage their curiosity and assure them that asking questions is part of learning.

7. What are some ways to integrate faith into daily routines?

Start the day with a short prayer.
Read a Bible story together daily.
Attend church and Sunday school regularly.
Incorporate prayers of thankfulness during meals and at bedtime.

8. How can I be a good role model of faith for my children?

Pray with them and show them how to pray.
Read the Bible together and discuss its teachings.
Demonstrate Christian values through your actions and interactions.
Be patient and consistent in practicing your faith.

9. What resources can help in teaching children about Jesus?

Children’s Bibles like “The Beginner’s Bible” and “Jesus Storybook Bible.”
Christian storybooks with illustrations.
Animated Bible story videos available on platforms like YouTube.
Craft kits and activity books related to Bible stories.

10. How can I make faith a positive and consistent part of my child’s life?

Regularly expose them to Bible stories and Christian principles.
Use positive reinforcement to praise their understanding and interest.
Create a habit of daily devotionals and casual faith discussions.
Surround them with positive Christian influences and role models.

Introducing Jesus to children is a journey filled with love, patience, and creativity.