Why We Use Bible Phrases With Preschoolers

Bible phrases are portions or adaptations of Bible verses that are used with preschoolers because phrases are easier for preschoolers to understand. Some Bible phrases are only parts of a verse while others are entire verses.

An excellent illustration for expressing Bible verses as Bible phrases is Genesis 1:11:

Then God said, "Let the earth produce vegetation: seed-bearing plants, and fruit trees on the earth bearing fruit with seed in it, according to their kinds."

Here is an example of using the same Bible verse in phrases.

God made the flowers.
God made the trees.
God made the fruit.

Jennifer spots a flower on the windowsill. She carefully picks up the flower to examine each petal. Mrs. Carter sits down beside her and says: “Jennifer found a flower. The Bible tells us that God made the flowers . Thank you, God for the flowers.” Jennifer smiles as Mrs. Carter continues to talk about the flower. A simple smile is Jennifer’s way of responding to Mrs. Carter. She may not fully understand how God made the flower, but Jennifer is able to sense the joy expressed in the words of her teacher.

Teaching with Bible Prases

Provide the opportunity for a sensory experience. Jennifer may have experienced the warmth of feeling Mrs. Carter’s love for her.
Simple words are best. Jennifer would have difficulty understanding some of the words, such as “seed-bearing plants,” in addition to the fact that the verse was too long for her to follow.
Mrs Carter introduces Jennifer to God as she explains He made the flower.

Try These Ideas

Sing Bible verses and phrases using familiar tunes to add emphasis. Speak or sing in a gentle voice to convey feelings of love and acceptance. Use recordings provided in your Leader Packs.
Take advantage of spontaneous opportunities to use Bible verses as preschoolers work and play.
Use Bible phrases in positive situations to prevent children from thinking that the Bible supports their misbehavior.
Open the Bible as you use Bible phrases with preschoolers of all ages.

Anytime preschoolers observe nature materials, they have the opportunity for a greater awareness of God. As Jennifer explored the flower, Mrs. Carter helped her become more aware of God by using Bible phrases and the prayer, “Thank You, God.” The key to using Bible verses and phrases effectively with preschoolers is a teacher who plans intentionally for teaching opportunities.