Literature and Young People
Literature can help parents teach their children about God’s presence. Here are eight ways to use literature for this purpose.
Bible Stories for Children
Start with age-appropriate Bible storybooks that retell the classic stories of the Bible in a way that’s engaging for children. These stories can help children see how God has been present in the lives of people throughout history.
Devotional Books for Kids
Choose daily devotional books designed for children, which offer short readings, prayers, and reflections to help kids connect with God in their daily lives.
Christian Fiction for Children
Look for Christian-themed fiction books appropriate for your child’s age group. These stories often incorporate moral lessons and examples of God’s guidance and love.
Picture Books
For younger children, picture books that illustrate God’s creation, love, and care can be very impactful. These books often use beautiful imagery alongside simple text to convey messages about God’s presence.
Biographies of Christian Figures
Reading about the lives of saints, missionaries, and other Christian figures can inspire children and show them how God can work through individuals to make a difference in the world.
Interactive Books
Look for interactive books that include activities, questions, and prayers to engage children more deeply. These books can help children reflect on how God is present in their own lives.
Books on Nature and Creation
Use literature that focuses on the beauty of the natural world to discuss God’s creation. This can help children appreciate the wonder of the world around them as a reflection of God’s presence.
Holiday and Seasonal Books
Utilize books that explain and celebrate Christian holidays and seasons, such as Advent, Christmas, Lent, and Easter. These can help children understand the Christian calendar and see God’s presence in the cycle of the year.
My Child’s First Book
Early childhood books introduce the faith in fun and engaging ways. Board books (0-2 yrs.) are sturdy and durable. Examples include “God Bless You and Good Night” by Hannah Hall and “Catholic Baby’s First Bible” by Judith Bauer. A great picture book (3-5 yrs.) with engaging illustrations is “God Gave Us You” by Lisa Tawn Bergren.
Saints & Stories
Introducing your children to the saints provides role models of faith and a connection to the Church. It also highlights holy people who are in the presence of God and can intercede for us in prayer. Two great resources include “Once Upon a Time Saints” by Ethel Pochocki (5yrs. and up) and “Saints: Lives and Illuminations” by Ruth Sanderson (8-12 yrs.).
Parables
Teaching children about the parables is a wonderful way to help them understand important lessons and teachings of Jesus in a relatable and engaging manner. Two easy-to-read recommendations include “Favorite Parables from the Bible: Stories Jesus Told” by Nick Butterworth and Mick Inkpen and “20 Parables of Jesus: 20 Short Stories for Kids” by Nina Gill.
Uplifting Books
There are many popular mainstream children’s books that include moral messaging and religious themes. Here are a few examples: “The Berenstain Bears and the Golden Rule” by Stan and Jan Berenstain; “The Giving Tree” by Shel Silverstein; “Where the Red Fern Grows” by Wilson Rawls; and “The Chronicles of Narnia” series by C.S. Lewis.
Resources
When using literature to teach children about God’s presence, it’s important to engage in discussions about what you read together. Ask open-ended questions, share your thoughts, and encourage your children to express their feelings and questions. This interactive approach can deepen their understanding and personal relationship with God. Here are several resources that can help.
