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Do you want to help your children/grandchildren understand the BIG  stories in the Bible. Well, there's an App for it! YouVersion Bible App  for kids. There are parent and church companion resources and parents  can even link their YouVersion account to their children’s and explore  the Bible together. Go to: https://careforthefamily.createsend1.com/t/r-l-jdliuyid-l-t/

As parents, we want to raise children who will be healthy and well-balanced physically, emotionally and socially. But do we ever stop to think about our child’s spiritual development and how we can help it grow? We may feel a bit daunted at that, or unsure of where to start. Here are some tips to help you.

Research shows that even very young children have an inherent tendency to naturally believe in a supernatural God who created the world. We can therefore encourage them to think curiously about who made the world and what it might be like to be an all-knowing and powerful being. Talk naturally about trusting God and how he makes a difference in our lives today. 

Don’t assume that because you love your child they automatically know it. Tell them you love them and give them kind words and encouragement. You also show your love when you listen to them, have fun together, take an interest in their world and give them support. When our children feel loved and accepted by us, they will be in a better position to build secure trusting attachments with others – including God. Also tell them often that God loves and accepts us all – even when we make mistakes. 

Create traditions 

Family traditions give everyone in the family the opportunity to interact closely and develop a sense of connected-ness. A strong bond is formed as you feel part of something unique and special. As we build a sense of family identity and togetherness, our children are more likely to embrace our values and beliefs as their own. 

Such traditions can include everyday activities, like always eating fish and chips on a Friday night, or reading a bedtime story to your child. They also encompass things we do on special occasions 

– maybe lighting candles on Christmas Eve, or celebrating birthdays in a particular way. Why
not add some specific ‘faith’ traditions too – for example, find a special way to pray together for friends and family, or celebrate the anniversary of your child’s dedication or christening, if appropriate. 

Involve others 

Grandparents, wider family and our church community can all help too. If your children’s grandparents or other family members share your faith, encourage them to share stories with the children of how God has helped them in the past, or to create a safe place where children can raise questions and doubts.      

Let them see your faith 

Do your children have a chance to ‘see’ your own relationship with God? Talk with them about times and ways in which God is helping you or things that you are praying about. You could chat about certain ways that God is encouraging you or has answered a prayer, and explain how your faith impacts your 

daily life.