Talking to Little Ones About God

Hi Kendra,

I'm always especially interested in your posts on very young children as I have a 2 1/2-year-old daughter. I wondered if you have ever run into this issue and could share any insight?

When I initially began reading the Bible, Bible stories, books with Christian values, etc. and praying with my daughter, she was very receptive to it. However, in the last couple of months, she wants nothing to do with discussion or stories about God or Jesus (although she will still say her mealtime and bedtime prayers and still talks about God and Jesus herself). She just starts whining or yelling or says "No, I don't want to!" "Don't read that!" or something along those lines. I really want to start implementing a Circle Time or devotions or short reading from the Bible with her daily (it would just be her and I).  I've really tried to keep it "fun" and interesting and not been pushy at all. Is this just a phase? How do I handle this? Any ideas as to what could be causing this resistance to anything God-related? (I should mention she loves being read to with any other type of books).

Thanks so much and I look forward to an answer. I know you are a very busy
lady!

In Christ,
Kathy

♥

Dear Kathy,

I titled this post the way I did because of course children have minds of their own! But that doesn't mean they know what's best for them, and that's why God set up families with parents to nurture and guide the young. You should continue reading to her about her God, but maybe you need to change your approach for a little while.

My first thought is that maybe you need to just read to her the books about God, the stories from the Bible and the like, but forget any discussion. Maybe if you're asking her questions about the stories, she feels pressured and uncomfortable. Just allow these reading times to be casual and informal, a part of the spiritual ebb and flow of your days.

I would also talk very naturally about God as you go about your day. When the rain softly falls, say something like, "Look, honey! That beautiful rain is a gift from God so that all the flowers and plants will live." Or, "Daddy is coming home soon. Isn't God good to have given us such a wonderful daddy?" Your observations of the goodness of God will foster her own.

Blessings,
Kendra