How do you make spirituality make sense to a toddler? Here you will learn what and how to teach kids about spirituality and available resources to make the process easier.
When did your spiritual journey begin. For some it began as early as they can remember. Early spiritual teachings play an important role in a child’s early development. We as parents don’t pretend to have all the answers but there is a fundamental belief system we teach to our children. Often this belief system is closely linked with spirituality, religion, and morality. What do they all mean?
Clarify What You Believe
I remember being pregnant with my first child and going over in my head all of the things that I want to teach him and how to create a spiritual being that it’s kind, courageous, compassionate, honest and more. What structure do I have in place to accomplish this goal. I reflected on my own spirituality and what I believe.
Where did I learn all of these characteristics how can I simplify them into easy lessons for my child. Once I clarified for myself the spiritual being I wanted to raise I then prayed for wisdom, confidence, grace, and mercy. We are only human and will not always have the answer but we can always do our best. No matter what my child establishes as his belief system. I will know that he has the virtues and spiritual foundation to withstand hardships and stand confidently in his greatness.
Proverbs 22:6
“Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it”
What is Spirituality vs. Religion?
More often than not spirituality is connected with religion. Spirituality tends to be more broad. Religion often focuses on a divine presence and an organized belief system that serves as the foundation of many peoples moral and life guidance. Spirituality is more about the individuals journey. It is the quest for meaning and purpose, connection to others, to nature, to peace.
Spirituality And Child Development
Introduce Spirituality Early
Introduce spirituality early on: Waste no time. The example you set for your child in the early years is crucial. Children, especially toddlers, are like sponges soaking up and interpreting everything around them. This knowledge in tern becomes what they use to create their identity and perception of self. The very virtues and lessons you teach them in the toddler years can set them up for a healthy, peaceful and productive life. When equipped with the proper tools the job of life can be much easier.
How Do You Explain And Teach Spirituality To A Child
If you wanna make your life a little easier focus on virtues. I prefer to use The Children’s Book Of Virtues by William J. Bennett. This book brings together stories from around the world. It focuses on introducing children to good character such as courage, self-discipline, responsibility, compassion, faith, honesty, loyalty, friendship, and perseverance.
It is helpful to refer back to these lessons and stories when every day events and situations occur. Your child will have an understandable frame reference. You can also refer to the Ten Commandments. With these options as your foundation you can begin creating a spiritual being. Spirituality is more than this but take baby steps. As your child grows they will understand more and more in time. Keep it simple.
What Are Spiritual Needs Of A Child?
Needs we expect from life to have meaning and purpose.
To live and feel loved
Sense of belonging
Reassurance
Self-esteem
Hope
Acceptance
Forgiveness
Gratitude
Peace
Do This Everyday To Raise A Spiritual Child
Matthew 19:14
Jesus said “Let the little children come to me and do not hinder them…”
Use Daily Events To Teach Spirituality
An example of this would be a lesson in gratitude. This has been the lesson in our home for the last couple of weeks. Be grateful and appreciate what you have because what you have is enough to be satisfied. My children are in the process of picking out and donating some of their old toys. We use this as an opportunity to discuss gratitude. My children are learning that others may have less than we do but are satisfied, thankful, and appreciative.
Appreciate Nature
Outside of nature having an obvious positive impact on reducing childhood obesity and increasing a child’s imagination it is also linked to spirituality. This past year my kiddos spend a great deal of time outside due to the pandemic. They were filled with curiosity as we walked and spoke about the bugs, flowers, trees, and animals.
Children are naturally curious and so this presented an opportunity for spiritual exploration. We discussed how the world was created which resulted in an appreciation for how we are connected to all that we see in nature and others around the world.
Read, Read, and Read!
You can find many stories and books that incorporate spiritual growth, character building, or biblical teachings. The best resource is the library. Not only is it an experience for your kiddos but it is easy on your pockets. If you kiddos are anything like mine we have burned through money buying books but I learned quickly to use the library more often.
William J. Bennett, who wrote The Children’s Book Of Virtues, is my foundation. All other readings are supplemental. My children understand this book and stories more easily than any biblical readings at this time. We tried bible readings and the comprehension is not quite there yet.
Introduce Simple Forms Of Prayer
Introducing prayer into your daily routine. Reciting a prayer over meals and at bedtime each day can serve as a reminder to be thankful and gracious. Our family has built into our routine nighttime prayer and scripture which is recited from memory.
We use Phillipians 4:13 which say ‘I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me’. Sometimes in my haste to wrap up the evening I forget the scripture and prayer but my kiddos quickly remind me. I now know they look forward to this family routine which seems to serve as a check-out for the day.
Teach Spirituality Without Religion
Spirituality without religion: I am aware that some may have a spiritual path without the presence of an organized religion. Fortunately many of the lessons taught in the Bible are also synonymous to the virtues mentioned in the book of virtues. Remember, spirituality is an individual endeavor AND ones path to seeking out their higher power is built on an established personal relationship. Do your best to offer the tools and when it is time your child will embark on their own personal journey.
Simply Put, Teach Spirituality While Stress Free
Simple tools shared in toddler stages can make their spiritual growth and development a breeze if used consistently. Spirituality is one aspect of who your child is and will be in the future. There are so many amazing resources for teaching your early learner holistically. Check out our guide to successful child development which focuses on the whole child.
Leave a comment on how you teach your little person about spirituality. Your input will surely be helpful to those reading.
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