How to Teach My Child About Jesus: A Simple Guide

Teaching your child about Jesus can be a rewarding journey, not just for them but for the entire family. Whether you're deeply rooted in your faith or you're exploring spirituality with fresh eyes, breaking down the story and teachings of Jesus into bite-sized, understandable pieces is key. Here's how you can make the teachings of Jesus accessible and engaging for your child.

Start with the Bible Story of Jesus

Begin with the basics: who Jesus is, where He was born, and key events in His life. Use simple language to explain that Jesus is the Son of God, born in Bethlehem. Share stories of His miracles, His teachings, and His love for all people. Picture books and children's Bibles can be great resources, offering illustrations that capture the imagination and convey the essence of Jesus' life in a way that's easy for kids to grasp.

Use Everyday Examples of how Jesus Lived

Children understand complex ideas better through everyday examples. Teach them about Jesus' teachings by relating them to situations they're familiar with. For instance, when talking about the importance of kindness, share a story about helping a friend or a neighbor. This helps children see how Jesus' teachings apply to their own lives.

Engage with Questions about the Bible

Kids are naturally curious and will have lots of questions. Encourage this curiosity. If they ask about who Jesus is or why He did certain things, take these as opportunities to explore His life and teachings together. Admitting that you don't have all the answers is okay; it can be a chance to learn together or seek answers from others in your faith community.

Pray Together with Your Child

Prayer can be a simple conversation with Jesus, speaking to Him as one would speak to a friend. Teach your child to pray by showing them how to talk to Jesus about their day, their fears, their hopes, and their questions. This not only helps them feel closer to Jesus but also teaches them about the power of prayer in everyday life.

Create a Routine in Making Jesus a Part of Life

Incorporate Jesus' teachings into your daily routine. This could be reading a Bible story at bedtime, saying a prayer before meals, or attending church together. Consistency helps children absorb and reflect on what they're learning.

Use Creative Activities to Learn about Jesus

Children learn through play and creativity. Use crafts, songs, and games to teach them about Jesus. For example, drawing scenes from Jesus' life, singing songs about His love, or acting out parables can make learning about Him fun and memorable.

Lead by Example of Who Jesus Is

Children learn a lot by watching the adults in their lives. Show them Jesus' teachings through your actions. Be kind, forgiving, and loving. Let them see you reading the Bible, praying, and helping others. This teaches them that following Jesus is a way of life.

Connect with a Church

Being part of a church or faith community can enrich your child's understanding of Jesus. It allows them to learn with and from others, participate in church activities, and see the broader family of people who follow Jesus.

Be Patient and Persistent

Understanding Jesus and His teachings is a lifelong journey. There will be times your child is more interested and times they're less so. Keep sharing, teaching, and living out your faith, and be patient as your child grows in their understanding and relationship with Jesus.

Encourage Questions and Exploration about Jesus and Salvation

As your child grows, their understanding of Jesus will evolve. Encourage them to ask questions, seek answers, and explore their faith. This journey of discovery is a beautiful aspect of growing up with Jesus as a guide.

Teaching your child about Jesus doesn't have to be complicated. By breaking down His story and teachings into understandable segments, using everyday examples, and incorporating faith into your daily routine, you can guide your child on a meaningful spiritual journey. Remember, every child is different, and their path to understanding Jesus will be unique. With patience, love, and guidance, you can help lay the foundation for a lifelong relationship with Jesus.