Here at Sprouting Seeds, we believe in the power of planting seeds of wonder in our children's hearts from a young age. One of the most beautiful ways to do this is through Bible Time – a special moment where families come together to explore the timeless wisdom and teachings found within the pages of the Bible.
"Train up a child in the way he should go and when he is old, he will not depart from it." - Proverbs 22:6
Introducing Bible Time:
Set aside a dedicated, manageable time each day or week to engage in Bible Time with your little ones. Create a cosy corner or a special space where you can gather without distractions.
Choosing Appropriate Passages:
The world is a complicated place, but there are plenty of children’s Bibles and books to light a candle in the dark and equip your child with goodness and truth. A particular favourite of mine is “The Jesus Storybook Bible, Every Story Whispers His Name” by Sally Lloyd-Jones. This award-winning children’s bible is beautifully illustrated and encourages children to discover Jesus for themselves. It teaches them how Jesus is at the core of God’s story of salvation and at the centre of their lives too.
Alternatively, select passages from the Bible tailored to your child’s age and understanding and use study aids like commentaries or study guides.
the Jesus Storybook Bible - Every Story Whispers His Name Hardcover – Illustrated, 21 September 2015
Engaging in Discussion and Reflection:
Use Bible Time as an opportunity to engage in meaningful discussions with your children. Ask questions, encourage them to share their thoughts and feelings, and help them understand the deeper meanings behind the stories and teachings.
For example:
What do you think this story teaches us about [insert moral or spiritual concept]?
How do you think [character's name] felt when [event from the story] happened?
Can you relate any part of this story to something that has happened in your own life?
Why do you think [character's name] made that decision? Do you think it was the right choice? Why or why not?
How might the world be different if everyone followed the lesson taught in this story?
What do you think God wants us to learn from this story?
How can we apply the message of this story to our own lives today?
Do you think the characters in the story faced any challenges? How did they overcome them?
What are some ways we can show love/kindness/compassion (or any other virtue) like [character's name] did in the story?
What questions do you have about this story? Let's explore them together.
These questions are designed to encourage children to think critically, empathetically, and spiritually about the stories and teachings they encounter during Bible Time, fostering deeper understanding and personal connection.
"Children are a gift from the Lord; they are a reward from him." - Psalm 127:3
UNSPLASH -getty-images-fVP3dwP9emM
Application in Daily Life:
One of the most powerful aspects of Bible Time is its ability to help children apply timeless truths to their everyday lives. Whether it's showing kindness to others, being honest and compassionate, or demonstrating forgiveness, the lessons learned during Bible Time can have a profound impact on their character development.
Creating Precious Bonding Moments:
Beyond the spiritual benefits, Bible Time also provides invaluable bonding moments for families. Snuggle up together with a blanket and let the warmth of God's word fill your hearts as you journey through the stories of faith and courage together.
"Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength. These commandments that I give you today are to be on your hearts. Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up." - Deuteronomy 6:5-7.
Spending quality Bible study time with our children nurtures their hearts and minds at every stage of development, from infancy to young adulthood.
For Babies and Toddlers:
During the earliest years of life, babies and toddlers absorb information like sponges, forming foundational beliefs and attitudes that will shape their future. Engaging in Bible study time with our young ones lays the groundwork for their spiritual development. Even though they may not understand the words or concepts fully, the comforting rhythm of familiar stories and soothing tones of prayer cultivate a sense of security and belonging. Simple activities like singing hymns, cuddling during Storytime, and offering blessings during daily routines, instil a deep awareness of God's love and presence in their lives from the very beginning.
For Children (Ages 3-12):
As children grow and their cognitive abilities expand, Bible study time becomes an opportunity for exploration and discovery. Through interactive storytelling, creative crafts, and thoughtful discussions, children engage with biblical truths in meaningful ways. They begin to grasp moral lessons, learn about the character of God, and develop a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. Bible study time also nurtures important life skills such as empathy, compassion, and critical thinking as children apply biblical principles to their everyday experiences. These formative years provide a solid foundation upon which their faith can continue to grow and flourish.
For Teenagers (Ages 13-18):
During the tumultuous teenage years, Bible study time serves as a guiding light amidst the complexities of adolescence. As young people navigate questions of identity, purpose, and morality, engaging with Scripture provides them with a source of truth and stability. Teenagers have the opportunity to wrestle with deeper theological concepts, grapple with difficult questions, and develop a more nuanced understanding of their faith. Bible study time also fosters a sense of community and belonging as teenagers come together to explore their beliefs, share experiences, and support one another on their spiritual journeys. Through these formative years, young adults are equipped with the spiritual foundation and moral compass they need to navigate the challenges of adulthood with confidence and conviction.
UNSPLASH - kinga-howard-HYcXUU-mLwE
Practical Tips for a Meaningful Bible Time:
Consistency is Key: Establish a regular schedule for Bible Time to make it a consistent part of your family routine.
Make it Fun: Use props, visual aids, and storytelling techniques to make Bible Time engaging and enjoyable for you and your children.
Lead by Example: Let your own love for God's word shine through during Bible Time, and your children will be inspired to follow in your footsteps.
Be Flexible: Allow room for spontaneity and creativity during Bible Time. Let your children take the lead sometimes and see where their curiosity leads you.
"But the seed on good soil stands for those with a noble and good heart, who hear the word, retain it, and by persevering produce a crop." - Luke 8:15
As we set out on this path of nurturing hearts and growing faith, we can find wisdom in integrating child development theories into our approach to Bible Time. Drawing on my teaching experience and understanding of children's development, insights from theorists like Piaget, Bronfenbrenner and Vygotsky are listed below. This inclusion aims to tailor Bible Time activities to suit children's varying ages and abilities, ensuring they find the experience both enjoyable and instructive.
Let's explore how each theory aligns with our practices:
1. Creative Crafts and Activities (Piaget's Theory of Cognitive Development): According to Jean Piaget, kids learn by exploring and hands-on experiences. When children do creative crafts during Bible Time, they learn more about the stories in the Bible. By using their senses and trying things out, they grasp the deeper meanings behind the stories they encounter.
2. Nature Walks and Reflections (Ecological Systems Theory - Bronfenbrenner): Bronfenbrenner's Ecological Systems Theory underscores the impact of environmental influences on child development. Taking Bible Time outdoors and connecting with nature exposes children to the natural world, fostering an appreciation for the interconnectedness of all living things. This holistic learning environment encourages exploration and discovery, transcending the confines of the home.
3. Family Devotionals (Attachment Theory - Bowlby): Attachment Theory highlights the significance of secure attachment bonds between children and caregivers for healthy emotional development. Participating in family devotionals during Bible Time nurtures a sense of belonging, security, and emotional connection within the family unit. By reinforcing attachment relationships between parents and children, Bible Time creates a safe space for children to express their thoughts, feelings, and spiritual questions.
4. Music and Worship (Socio-Cultural Theory - Vygotsky): Vygotsky’s says that being around others and the culture we live in helps children's brains grow. When we have music and worship during Bible Time, children learn about faith and how people worship together. By worshipping with family, children learn from each other and understand more about what they believe.
UNSPLASH - nappy-zpxFtWNSsGk
5. Journaling and Reflection (Constructivism - Vygotsky): This is about how kids learn by thinking about things and talking about them. Giving children notebooks during Bible Time lets them write down what they think and encourages them to ask questions. By thinking about what they write, kids learn more about God and grow in their understanding of important ideas.
6. Kohlberg's Theory of Moral Development: This is about how kids learn to make good choices. Doing things like helping others during Bible Time helps children learn to develop empathy, compassion, and social responsibility towards others in need. It teaches them to think about how they can make the world a better place.
7. Technology and Multimedia (Technological Pedagogical Content Knowledge - TPACK): TPACK shows how to use technology, teaching methods, and what we know about the subject to deepen understanding. Using technology such as computers and videos during Bible Time provides children with fun ways to learn. It helps each child learn in their own way and makes Bible Time more interactive and enjoyable.
8. Prayer and Meditation (Erikson's Psychosocial Development Theory): Erikson says it's important to know who you are and what you're here for. When children pray and meditate during Bible Time, they grow spiritually and feel more peaceful inside. It helps them deal with tough questions about life and find strength and peace with the support of their faith community.
Remember, the seeds of wonder you plant during Bible Time have the power to take root and flourish, shaping your children's hearts and minds for years to come. So, let's embrace this precious opportunity to sow seeds of faith, love, and wonder in our families today.
Until next time, stay blessed, stay sane, and stay beautiful!
With love and laughter,
V.A.