Ask the Doctor by Dr. Joneal Kirby

 

Q. How can my husband and I involve our toddler daughter and 3 year old son in a family devotional? Aren’t they just too young to sit still for a Bible lesson?

 

A. Well, good for you for asking this question. Because, you say the words, "Family Devotional" to a group of parents, and you will usually get a few groans and some guilt-ridden faces.Most faith-filled families have tried devotional times and have experienced quite a struggle with them and with their kids. The parents who have found this practice to be useful and satisfying have a few tips for us.

 To insure your success in faithbuilding times with your own kids, remember this ONE thing:  keep the moment - just that! The shorter the captive time, the rule seems to be, the better. During the toddler years, think of cooking oatmeal - 3 minutes and they're done! Babies and pre-schoolers have tiny, little attention spans, so think   - short and sweet.

  And then second: make your devotions fun. And as you talk about God, talk of things that make your child smile. Talk about the love of Jesus. Take them on your lap and tell the sweet story of how Jesus did that very thing with little children and then tickle and play with them for a few seconds. And kids love to learn about God's creation.

 What a great time to also just cuddle with your kids. To give lots of kisses and hugs! So that your children begin to associate these spiritual moments with happy feelings. As your child gets older, you can read the Bible together. When they learn to read, encourage them to practice reading out loud, by reading scripture to the family. And talk about your own faith, not just during scheduled family times, but in your everyday activities. There are plenty of teachable moments as you drive them to school or work on homework together. After all, we want our kids' faith to be one that walks and talks with them - not one that just sits still

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