How to teach kids the Bible
Start with stories, not lessons. Read one short Bible story at the same time each day, retell it in simple words, ask one question, and repeat the favorites. Five minutes most days is easier to keep up than a long lesson once in a while.
We make Bible Stories for Kids. These ideas work with any Bible or storybook.
Start with everyday life
Deuteronomy 6:7 pictures it this way: talking about God's words at home, on the road, at bedtime and in the morning. It doesn't need to be a class. It can fit into the routine you already have.
What works at each age
- Ages 2 and 3: very short stories, pictures and one idea, like "God made the animals." Add songs and actions.
- Ages 4 and 5: they can follow a plot. Ask them to tell the story back to you, or act it out with toys.
- Ages 6 and 7: they can read along, find the story in a Bible and start memorizing short verses.
Five habits that help
- Pick a set time. Bedtime is usually the easiest.
- One story, one idea. You don't have to explain everything.
- Repeat their favorites. Young kids love it, and it is how they remember.
- Ask one question, like "How do you think Noah felt?"
- Connect it to their day: "You shared, just like the boy with the loaves and fish."
When your child asks a hard question
Give a short, honest answer. It is fine to say, "I don't know. Let's find out together." With little ones, don't dwell on the scary details, and focus on how God cares for people.
Where to go next
Common questions
What age should I start teaching my child the Bible?
As early as you like. A 2 year old can enjoy pictures and simple lines, and by about 3 most kids can follow a short story.
How much time does it take?
About five minutes on most days is enough to start.
Do I need a children's Bible?
It helps with the youngest kids. As they grow, show them the verses in a full Bible too.
Bible Stories for Kids at a glance
- For children ages 3 to 7
- 26 illustrated stories, from the Bible and faith-based, all narrated aloud
- In English, Spanish and Portuguese
- No ads; purchases sit behind a parental gate
- Three free stories; the rest by subscription with a 7-day free trial (US: $9.99/month or $69.99/year)
- For iPhone and iPad; stories load over the internet
Try three stories free
Three stories are free. The rest come with a 7-day free trial.
Download on the App Store
