Great Resources for your Kids!
(This post was written by Gina McClain, Director of Children’s Ministries)
Many times parents will ask me, “What can I get for my kids that will help shape their relationship with Jesus?”
This is a great question. My simplest answer is, “A good Bible”. No other tool is a better investment to help shape the worldview of our kids.
**pause**
You may be thinking to yourself, “What in the world does she mean by ‘worldview’??” Again… great question.
Worldview is very simple. It’s how we view the world. We can view the world through society’s lens. (I.e. our main purpose in life is for our pleasure alone) Or we can view the world through the lens of scripture. (I.e. the main purpose in life is to glorify God and enjoy Him forever)
Clearly we want our kids to view the world through the lens of scripture. In order to do this, they must learn to consume and exercise scripture. Finding the right tool to help them begin the life-long journey of exploring the depths of God’s Word is an important step. So, I wanted to share my recommendations for Bibles for your kids in hopes that it helps you with this critical investment.
Preschoolers:
I highly recommend the Jesus Storybook Bible. This (bar none) is the best kids’ bible on the market today. It does an excellent job connecting each story of scripture with the same theme. God made a Promise and He kept that Promise in Jesus. I read this Bible to my kids and even I gain a new perspective on stories I’ve heard since I was a child. Click the link and buy this Bible for your child, grandchild, niece, nephew, second cousin-twice removed… just get it.
Elementary:
The Action Bible is a graphic novel version of scripture. It’s considered “free translation” because it paraphrases scriptures and translates ideas from the original text. It should replace a literal translation, it is one they will engage with and expand their understanding of scripture. My 9 & 11 year old trade off reading this Bible at night before bed. Want to see your kids fight over a Bible? Get this one.
For a literal translation of scripture, I really like The Adventure Bible for Young Readers (NIrV) for kids K-2nd grade & Kids Quest Study Bible (NIrV) for kids 3rd – 5th grade. The NIrV is a translation that uses more common language for kids to understand & the study/Q&A segments are relevant to kids today. Understand that this is not the one they’re going to trip over themselves to read every day. (And if they do… take pictures!) Yet teaching your kids to read a little each day is the primary goal. Take advantage of the study segments within the Bible and help your kids engage with them. Use them for bedtime conversation. They’re looking for ways to stay up anyway! Leverage the opportunity and sow some scripture into them.
I hope this helps! Watch for more recommendations in the future.
