Teaching Kids About Jesus: A Simple Guide for Parents

At what age should we start teaching children about Jesus?

The question of when to begin teaching our little ones about Jesus is one that touches the hearts of many parents and educators. The truth is, there is no single “right” age to start, for each child’s journey of faith is unique. But I believe we can begin planting the seeds of faith from the earliest moments of a child’s life.

From infancy, children can be surrounded by the love of Christ through the actions and words of their parents and family. As St. Paul reminds us, “Faith comes from hearing” (Romans 10:17). So let the name of Jesus be spoken with tenderness in your home. Let your children see you pray and worship. In this way, Jesus becomes a familiar and comforting presence in their world from the very beginning.

As children grow and begin to ask questions, usually around ages 3-5, we can start sharing simple stories about Jesus’ life and teachings. The parables, with their vivid imagery, often capture young imaginations. Stories of Jesus blessing the children or feeding the multitudes can help little ones see His love and care for all people.

But we must be careful not to overwhelm young minds with complex theological concepts. As Jesus Himself taught us, we must become like little children to enter the Kingdom of Heaven (Matthew 18:3). So let us approach teaching about Jesus with the simplicity and wonder of a child.

Remember, teaching about Jesus is not just a matter of words, but of living example. As St. Francis of Assisi wisely said, “Preach the Gospel at all times. When necessary, use words.” Children learn most powerfully through what they see and experience. So let your life be a testament to Christ’s love.

As children enter school age, around 6-7 years old, they can begin to grasp more complex ideas about Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection. This is often when formal religious education begins in many traditions. But never forget that the home remains the primary school of faith.

The goal is not to impose a set of beliefs, but to foster a living relationship with Jesus. As children grow, they will have questions and doubts. Welcome these as opportunities for deeper exploration and growth in faith. Trust in the work of the Holy Spirit, who guides us all into truth (John 16:13).

Let us approach the task of teaching children about Jesus with joy, patience, and trust in God’s timing. For as Jesus said, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these” (Matthew 19:14).

How can we explain Jesus’ divinity in a way children can understand?

Explaining the divinity of Jesus to children is a powerful task. We must approach it with humility, recognizing that the mystery of the Incarnation – God becoming man in Jesus Christ – is something that even the greatest theologians have pondered for centuries. Yet, we are called to share this beautiful truth with our little ones in ways they can grasp.

We must emphasize God’s love. This is the foundation of everything. Tell the children: “God loves you so much that He wanted to be close to you. So He sent His Son, Jesus, to be born as a baby and grow up just like you. Jesus is both God and human at the same time.”

We can use simple analogies to help children understand this concept. For example, you might say: “Think of how water can be liquid, ice, or steam. It’s still water, but in different forms. Jesus is God, but He came to earth in human form so we could see and know God better.”

Another approach is to focus on Jesus’ actions that reveal His divinity. Share stories of His miracles – how He calmed the storm, healed the sick, and even raised the dead. Explain that Jesus could do these things because He is God. But also emphasize how Jesus showed God’s love through simple acts of kindness and compassion.

It’s important to connect Jesus’ divinity to His role as our Savior. You might say: “Because Jesus is God, He could take away all the wrong things we’ve done. He loves us so much that He was willing to die for us, so we could be close to God forever.”

Remember, children often understand more through their hearts than their minds. So don’t be afraid to appeal to their emotions and imaginations. Use stories, pictures, and even role-playing to help them experience the wonder of God becoming man.

At the same time, we must be careful not to oversimplify to the point of distortion. It’s okay to admit that there are aspects of Jesus’ divinity that are hard for us to fully understand. This can actually help children develop a sense of awe and mystery about God.

As children grow, they will have more questions. Encourage this curiosity! It’s a sign of a living faith. Be prepared to explore the Scriptures together, especially the Gospels, where we encounter Jesus most directly.

Lastly, remember that understanding Jesus’ divinity is not just an intellectual exercise. It’s about developing a relationship with Him. Encourage children to talk to Jesus in prayer, to listen for His voice in their hearts, and to see Him in the people around them.

My brothers and sisters, as we guide our children in understanding Jesus’ divinity, let us remember the words of St. Augustine: “If you understand it, it is not God.” Let us cultivate in our children a faith that is both deeply rooted and always growing, always seeking to know more deeply the mystery of God’s love made visible in Jesus Christ.

What are the most important aspects of Jesus’ life and teachings to focus on with kids?

We must emphasize Jesus’ boundless love and mercy. Children need to know that Jesus loves them unconditionally, just as they are. Share stories like the Good Shepherd who searches for the lost sheep (Luke 15:3-7), or Jesus blessing the little children (Mark 10:13-16). These stories help children understand that they are precious to God(Holowchak et al., n.d.).

Secondly, teach about Jesus’ compassion for those who suffer. Stories of His healing miracles not only demonstrate His divine power but also His deep care for human pain. The story of Jesus healing the blind man (John 9:1-12) or raising Jairus’ daughter (Mark 5:21-43) can help children see Jesus’ tender heart(Holowchak et al., n.d.).

It’s also crucial to focus on Jesus’ teachings about how we should treat others. The Golden Rule – “Do to others as you would have them do to you” (Luke 6:31) – is a principle that even young children can understand and apply. The parable of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25-37) beautifully illustrates this teaching(Holowchak et al., n.d.).

We should not shy away from teaching about Jesus’ death and resurrection, as these events are central to our faith. But with young children, the emphasis should be on God’s love that conquers even death, rather than on the graphic details of the crucifixion. The joy of Easter morning, with its message of new life and hope, is particularly important(Sandford & Sandford, 2009).

Jesus’ teachings about the Kingdom of God are also essential. Help children understand that God’s Kingdom is both a present reality and a future hope. Use Jesus’ parables, like the mustard seed (Mark 4:30-32), to illustrate how God’s love and power work in the world(Sandford & Sandford, 2009).

It’s important to teach about Jesus’ prayer life and His relationship with the Father. Children can learn from Jesus’ example of regularly taking time to pray and seek God’s guidance. The Lord’s Prayer (Matthew 6:9-13) provides a wonderful model for children to follow in their own prayer lives(Sandford & Sandford, 2009).

Finally, don’t forget to emphasize Jesus’ teachings about forgiveness. The parable of the Prodigal Son (Luke 15:11-32) beautifully illustrates God’s forgiving love and can help children understand the importance of forgiving others(Sandford & Sandford, 2009).

As we teach these aspects of Jesus’ life and teachings, let us remember that our own lives should reflect these truths. Children learn not just from what we say, but from what we do. Let us strive to embody Christ’s love, compassion, and forgiveness in our daily lives.

As we guide our children in understanding Jesus, let us keep in mind the words of St. Paul: “I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me” (Galatians 2:20). May our teaching lead our children not just to know about Jesus, but to know Him personally and to allow Him to live in and through them.

How do we explain Jesus’ death and resurrection to young children?

First, it’s important to establish the context of God’s great love for us. You might begin by saying, “God loves us so much that He sent His Son, Jesus, to be with us and show us how to live.” This sets the stage for understanding Jesus’ sacrifice as an act of love(Sandford & Sandford, 2009).

When discussing Jesus’ death, we must be careful not to dwell on the violent aspects, which can be distressing for young children. Instead, focus on the purpose behind it. You could say, “Jesus loved us so much that He was willing to die to take away all the wrong things we’ve done. He did this so we could be close to God forever.”

It’s helpful to use analogies that children can understand. For example, you might say, “Just like a parent might sacrifice something they love to help their child, Jesus sacrificed His life because He loves us so much.” This helps children connect Jesus’ actions to experiences of love they can relate to(Wheat & Wheat, 2010).

When explaining the resurrection, emphasize the joy and hope it brings. You could say, “But the wonderful news is that Jesus didn’t stay dead! God’s love is so powerful that it brought Jesus back to life on Easter morning. This shows us that God’s love is stronger than anything, even death.”

It’s important to connect the resurrection to our own lives. You might say, “Because Jesus rose from the dead, we know that we too will live forever with God. Jesus opened the way for us to be with God always.”

Use simple, concrete language and avoid abstract theological terms. For example, instead of talking about “salvation” or “atonement,” speak of Jesus “rescuing” us or “bringing us close to God.”

Remember that children often understand through their imaginations and emotions. Use stories, pictures, and even simple dramas to help them engage with the Easter story. The women at the empty tomb, or the disciples’ joy at seeing the risen Jesus, can be powerful scenes for children to imagine(Wheat & Wheat, 2010).

It’s also important to address the emotions children might feel when hearing about Jesus’ death. Acknowledge that it’s okay to feel sad when we think about Jesus dying, but remind them that the story doesn’t end there. The joy of the resurrection follows the sadness of the crucifixion.

As children grow older, they may have more questions about the details of Jesus’ death and resurrection. Always encourage their questions and be honest if you don’t have all the answers. It’s okay to say, “That’s a great question. The resurrection is a wonderful mystery that even grown-ups don’t fully understand.”

Finally, remember that understanding Jesus’ death and resurrection is a lifelong journey of faith. Don’t feel pressured to explain everything at once. Trust that as children grow in their relationship with Jesus, their understanding will deepen(Tanquerey, 2000).

As we share this central mystery of our faith with our children, let us remember the words of St. Paul: “For I am convinced that neither death nor life… nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord” (Romans 8:38-39). May our teaching always point to this unshakeable love that is at the heart of the Easter story.

What analogies or object lessons work well for teaching kids about Jesus?

When teaching children about Jesus, we must engage not only their minds but also their hearts and imaginations. Analogies and object lessons can be powerful tools in this endeavor, helping to make abstract concepts more concrete and memorable. Let us explore some ways we can use everyday objects and experiences to illuminate the truths of our faith.

One effective analogy for explaining Jesus’ role as our Savior is that of a lifeguard. You might say, “Imagine you’re swimming in the ocean and suddenly you’re caught in a strong current, being pulled away from shore. You can’t save yourself, but then a lifeguard swims out to rescue you. Jesus is like that lifeguard. We were in danger because of our sins, but Jesus came to save us and bring us safely to God.”

To illustrate God’s forgiveness, you could use the analogy of a chalkboard. Write various “sins” on a chalkboard, then erase them completely. Explain, “When we do wrong things, it’s like writing on this board. But when we ask for forgiveness, Jesus wipes the board clean. Our sins are completely erased, just like these marks on the board.”

The concept of the Trinity can be challenging even for adults, but a simple object lesson can help. Hold up an apple and explain, “This apple has three parts: the skin, the flesh, and the core. They’re all different, but they’re all part of one apple. In a similar way, God the Father, Jesus the Son, and the Holy Spirit are all different, but they’re all one God.”(Tanquerey, 2000)

To help children understand Jesus as the “light of the world” (John 8:12), you could use a flashlight in a darkened room. Turn on the flashlight and say, “Just as this light helps us see in the dark, Jesus helps us see the right way to live. He guides us and shows us the path to God.”

The parable of the mustard seed (Matthew 13:31-32) provides a wonderful opportunity for a hands-on lesson. Plant mustard seeds with the children and watch them grow over time. This can illustrate how faith, though it starts small, can grow into something big and strong(Sheed, 2014).

To explain how Jesus lives in our hearts, you could use a glove. Put your hand in the glove and move it around. Explain, “Just as my hand makes the glove move, Jesus, living in our hearts, helps us to do good things and live the way God wants us to.”

The concept of Jesus as our “Good Shepherd” (John 10:11) can be illustrated using a stuffed sheep and a shepherd’s staff. Explain how a shepherd protects and cares for his sheep, just as Jesus cares for us(Sheed, 2014).

To help children understand the importance of staying connected to Jesus, you could use the analogy of a phone charger. Show how a phone doesn’t work when it’s not charged, just as we need to stay connected to Jesus through prayer and reading the Bible to live the way God wants us to.

Remember, the best analogies are often those that relate to children’s everyday experiences. Be creative and look for teachable moments in daily life. A child sharing a toy can illustrate God’s generosity in sending Jesus. A parent’s unconditional love can point to God’s love for us(Sheed, 2014).

But we must be careful not to push analogies too far. Always emphasize that while these examples help us understand aspects of Jesus and His teachings, He is far greater than any comparison we can make.

How can we make Jesus relevant to children’s everyday lives?

Bringing Jesus into the everyday lives of our little ones is both a great joy and a sacred responsibility. We must remember that children already have an innate openness to God’s love. Our task is to nurture that seed of faith and help it blossom.

We must live out our own faith authentically. Children learn by example more than by words alone. When they see us turning to Jesus in times of joy and sorrow, expressing gratitude, showing forgiveness, and treating others with kindness, they begin to understand what it means to follow Christ.

In your daily routines, look for opportunities to connect ordinary moments to Jesus’ teachings. When sharing a meal, remind children of how Jesus fed the multitudes and gave thanks to God. When resolving conflicts, ask “What would Jesus do?” and discuss His teachings on love and forgiveness. When admiring nature, speak of God’s beautiful creation.

Encourage children to develop a personal relationship with Jesus through simple, heartfelt prayer. Teach them to speak to Jesus as a friend, sharing their hopes, fears, and gratitude. Help them see that Jesus is always with them, not just in church but in every moment of their day. Model for them how to use biblical wisdom for connecting with sons, such as the importance of forgiveness and love. Encourage them to read the Bible and learn from the stories and teachings of Jesus, helping them see how they can apply these lessons to their own lives. By nurturing a personal relationship with Jesus and grounding it in biblical wisdom, children can develop a strong and lasting faith that will guide them throughout their lives.

Read Bible stories together, focusing on Jesus’ life and teachings. But don’t stop at mere storytelling – engage children in discussions about how these stories relate to their own experiences. Ask questions like “How do you think Jesus’ friends felt when He calmed the storm? Have you ever felt scared and needed help?”

Involve children in acts of service and charity, explaining how we serve Jesus by serving others. Even small acts of kindness can help children understand Jesus’ call to love our neighbors.

Finally, celebrate the liturgical seasons and feast days in your home. These rhythms of the Church year help children experience the life of Christ and the richness of our faith tradition.

Remember, making Jesus relevant is not about complex theology, but about helping children recognize His loving presence in their daily lives. With patience, creativity, and your own living witness, you can help the little ones in your care develop a lifelong friendship with our Lord and Savior.

What Bible stories are best for introducing Jesus to children?

The Bible is a treasure trove of stories that can captivate children’s hearts and minds, introducing them to the person of Jesus Christ. When selecting Bible stories for children, we should choose those that highlight Jesus’ love, compassion, and power to transform lives.

Let us begin with the Nativity story. The birth of Jesus in a humble stable, visited by shepherds and wise men, speaks to children of God’s love coming into the world in a way they can understand. This story shows that Jesus came for all people, rich and poor alike.

The story of Jesus blessing the children (Mark 10:13-16) is particularly powerful for young ones. It demonstrates Jesus’ special love for children and affirms their importance in God’s kingdom. This story can help children feel valued and loved by Jesus personally.

The parable of the Good Samaritan teaches Jesus’ message of loving our neighbors, even those who are different from us. Children can relate to the idea of helping someone in need and can be encouraged to show kindness in their own lives.

The feeding of the 5000 is a wonderful story to illustrate Jesus’ power and compassion. Children are often amazed by this miracle and can understand the lesson of sharing what we have with others.

The story of Jesus calming the storm can help children trust in Jesus during scary or difficult times in their lives. It shows Jesus’ power over nature and His care for His frightened friends.

As children grow older, introduce them to some of Jesus’ healing miracles, such as the healing of the paralyzed man lowered through the roof. These stories show Jesus’ power to make people whole, both physically and spiritually.

The parable of the Prodigal Son beautifully illustrates God’s unconditional love and forgiveness. While some of the concepts may be complex for very young children, the core message of a father’s enduring love resonates with many.

For older children, the story of Jesus’ death and resurrection is crucial. While we must be sensitive in how we present the crucifixion, the Easter story is the foundation of our faith and hope.

Remember, it’s not just about telling these stories, but helping children connect them to their own lives. Ask questions like, “How can we be like the Good Samaritan?” or “When have you felt scared and needed Jesus’ help?”

Use age-appropriate Bibles or story books with engaging illustrations. Consider using props, puppets, or acting out the stories to make them more engaging.

Most importantly, let the joy and wonder of these stories shine through in your own telling. Your enthusiasm will be contagious, helping children see that the Bible is not just an old book, but a living story of God’s love for them.

How do we address difficult questions kids may ask about Jesus?

Children’s curiosity about Jesus is a beautiful gift, even when it leads to challenging questions. We must welcome these questions with open hearts, seeing them as opportunities to deepen a child’s faith and understanding.

First, let us remember that it’s perfectly acceptable to admit when we don’t have all the answers. Our faith is filled with mystery, and it’s important for children to understand that some aspects of God are beyond our full comprehension. We can say, “That’s a wonderful question. Even grown-ups wonder about that sometimes. Let’s think about it together.”

When children ask why bad things happen if Jesus loves us, we can explain that Jesus doesn’t cause bad things, but He is with us during difficult times to comfort and strengthen us. Share stories of how people have felt God’s presence during challenges.

If a child asks if Jesus really performed miracles, we can discuss how Jesus’ power comes from God. Explain that miracles aren’t just magic tricks, but signs of God’s love and power. Encourage children to look for “everyday miracles” – acts of kindness, the beauty of nature, the gift of life itself.

Questions about Jesus’ divinity and humanity can be complex. We can use simple analogies, like how water can be liquid, ice, and steam, to help children understand how Jesus can be both God and man. Emphasize that this allows Jesus to understand our human experiences fully while having the power of God to help us.

When children ask about other religions, we should respond with respect and love. Explain that while we believe Jesus is the way to God, we are called to love and respect all people, regardless of their beliefs. Emphasize the importance of learning about others and treating everyone with kindness.

For questions about heaven and what happens after death, we can share the hope of eternal life that Jesus promises. Describe heaven as a place of joy and peace with God, while acknowledging that many details are a mystery.

If children express doubt or uncertainty, reassure them that questions are a normal part of faith. Share stories of saints or biblical figures who wrestled with doubt. Encourage them to pray about their questions, assuring them that God welcomes their honest thoughts.

For older children who ask about historical evidence for Jesus, we can discuss non-biblical sources that mention Jesus and explain how the Gospels were written. Emphasize that our faith is based not just on historical facts, but on the living experience of Christ in the Church and in our own lives.

Always tailor your responses to the child’s age and level of understanding. Use concrete examples and relatable analogies when possible. And remember, it’s okay to say, “Let’s find out together” and consult trusted resources or speak with a priest or catechist for help with particularly challenging questions.

Above all, let your own faith and love for Jesus shine through in your responses. Your witness of living faith will speak louder than any words you say.

How can we use music and art to help kids learn about Jesus?

Music and art are powerful gifts from God that can open young hearts to the beauty and truth of Jesus Christ. These creative expressions speak a language that often reaches children more deeply than words alone.

Let us begin with music. The Psalms tell us to “sing to the Lord a new song,” and this joyful command is especially fitting for children. Simple, catchy songs with biblical messages can plant seeds of faith that bloom for a lifetime. Encourage children to sing with their whole hearts, reminding them that their voices are a gift to God.

Choose songs that tell stories of Jesus’ life and teachings. Many beautiful hymns and contemporary worship songs recount the Nativity, Jesus’ miracles, or His parables in memorable ways. As children sing these songs, they internalize the Gospel message.

Don’t hesitate to incorporate movement and gestures into music. When children engage their bodies as well as their voices, they often remember the messages more clearly. Simple choreography can help illustrate concepts like God’s love embracing us or Jesus being the light of the world.

Encourage children to create their own songs about Jesus. This creative process helps them reflect deeply on what they’ve learned and express their faith in their own words. You might be amazed at the powerful insights that emerge through their lyrics.

Now, let us turn to the visual arts. Throughout history, the Church has used art to teach the faith, and we can continue this rich tradition with our children. Invite them to draw or paint scenes from Jesus’ life as they imagine them. This exercise helps them engage more deeply with the stories and make them their own.

Use great works of religious art as teaching tools. Show children paintings of Gospel scenes and ask them what they notice. What does Jesus’ face tell us about how He’s feeling? What are the people around Him doing? This practice teaches children to “read” images and find deeper meanings.

Encourage children to create art as a form of prayer. They might draw pictures of things they’re thankful for or illustrate their favorite Bible verses. Explain that offering their artwork to God is a beautiful way to pray.

Consider using clay or other sculpting materials to bring Bible stories to life. As children shape figures of Jesus and His disciples, they can better imagine these real people who walked the earth.

Don’t forget the power of drama and role-play. Invite children to act out Bible stories, taking turns being different characters. This immersive experience helps them understand the emotions and motivations of people in the Gospels.

For older children, explore the symbolism in Christian art. Teach them to recognize common symbols like the lamb, the fish, or the Good Shepherd. This knowledge deepens their appreciation of our rich artistic tradition.

Remember, the goal is not artistic perfection, but joyful expression and deeper understanding. Celebrate every child’s efforts, recognizing that their creations are acts of love and faith.

By engaging children’s senses and creativity through music and art, we help them encounter Jesus in new and meaningful ways. These experiences can form lasting memories and emotional connections to their faith, nurturing a lifelong relationship with our Lord.

What are age-appropriate ways to explain Jesus’ role in salvation?

Explaining Jesus’ role in salvation to children requires great care and sensitivity. We must present this powerful mystery in ways that children can grasp, while always maintaining the depth and beauty of our faith.

For the youngest children, we can begin with the simple truth that Jesus loves them very much. Explain that Jesus came to earth to show us how much God loves us and to help us become friends with God. Use the analogy of Jesus as a bridge, helping us cross over to be close to God.

As children grow, introduce the concept of sin as choosing to do things that hurt ourselves, others, or make God sad. Explain that Jesus came to help us say “sorry” to God and to teach us how to love better. The parable of the Lost Sheep can illustrate how Jesus seeks out those who have strayed and brings them back to God’s love.

For school-age children, we can begin to introduce more complex ideas. Explain that from the beginning, God created us to be in a loving relationship with Him. But humans chose to turn away from God (the story of Adam and Eve can illustrate this). This separation from God is what we call sin.

Use the analogy of a broken friendship. When we hurt a friend, we need to apologize and make things right. But the hurt caused by sin was so big that we couldn’t fix it on our own. So God sent Jesus, His own Son, to repair our relationship with Him.

Emphasize that Jesus showed us how to live in a way that pleases God. He taught us to love God and to love our neighbors. But He did even more than that. Through His death and resurrection, Jesus opened the way for us to be fully reunited with God.

For older children and teenagers, we can delve deeper into the concepts of sacrifice and redemption. Explain how in the Old Testament, people offered animal sacrifices to atone for sins. Jesus became the perfect and final sacrifice, offering Himself out of love for us.

Discuss how Jesus’ resurrection shows His power over sin and death. Because Jesus rose from the dead, we have hope for eternal life with God. This is the heart of our salvation – not just forgiveness of sins, but a restored relationship with God that lasts forever.

Throughout these explanations, always emphasize God’s incredible love. Salvation is not just about rules or avoiding punishment, but about God’s desire for us to be in loving communion with Him.

Use concrete examples from children’s lives to illustrate these concepts. For instance, if a child breaks a valuable object, parents might forgive them, but the object remains broken. Jesus not only brings forgiveness but also healing and restoration.

Encourage questions and be honest when concepts are difficult to understand fully. Remind children that God’s love and the mystery of salvation are so big that even adults spend their whole lives growing in understanding.

Above all, help children see that salvation is not just a future event, but a present reality. Through Jesus, we can experience God’s love and forgiveness right now. Encourage them to talk to Jesus, to thank Him for His love, and to ask for His help to live as His friends.

Remember, our goal is not just to impart information, but to foster a living relationship with Jesus. As children grow in their understanding of salvation, may they also grow in their love for the Savior who gave everything for them.