The Adventure Begins: Introducing God’s Kingdom
Ever tried explaining the vastness of the universe to a three-year-old? It’s a bit like that when we talk about the Kingdom of God with our little ones. Start simple.
The Kingdom of God is not a far-off or scary place, but rather, it’s all around us, wherever love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control are found. It’s in the hugs we give, the forgiveness we offer, and the helping hands we extend. By modeling these behaviors, we give our preschoolers a live demo of God’s Kingdom in action.
Everyday Miracles: Seeing God in the Small Stuff
Life’s full of teachable moments if we keep our eyes open. Ever noticed how a child’s wonder at a ladybug can remind us of God’s attention to detail? Or how sharing can turn everyday moments into lessons on God’s generosity? These are the opportunities to point out the miracles in the mundane, to show our kids that God is in everything and every action can be a reflection of His love. Narrate these observations to them, and you’ll be amazed at how quickly they begin to see the world through this lens too.
Love in Action: Teaching Kindness and Compassion
‘Sharing is caring’ sounds simple, right? But in the sandbox, it can be the equivalent of negotiating world peace. Here lies our golden chance to teach about God’s kingdom—where love is the currency and everyone’s worth is priceless. Start by sharing stories of Jesus’ kindness and then act it out together. Whether it’s making cards for neighbors or baking cookies for friends, these acts of kindness sow seeds of compassion and empathy in young hearts, preparing them to live as God’s children.
Prayer Time is Fun Time: Talking to God Together
If you think about it, praying is just chatting with God. And what kid doesn’t love a good chat? Especially when they learn they can talk about anything and everything with Him.
Making prayer a daily fun activity—like drawing prayer pictures or singing prayers—can help demystify the concept and show that God is always listening, ready to hear their joys, sorrows, and even their funny stories. This not only strengthens their faith but makes the idea of God’s constant presence a comforting reality.
Growing Seeds of Faith: Encouraging Curiosity about God
Curiosity is a preschooler’s superpower, and when it comes to God, there are endless questions. ‘How big is God?’ ‘Does God like bugs too?’ Encourage these questions, no matter how outlandish they may seem. Letting kids explore these thoughts freely, with guidance and patience, plants the seeds of a lifelong faith journey.
Sharing stories from the Bible, nature walks, or even stargazing can become moments of awe and wonder, pointing to a Creator who loves them and wants to be known.
