Parents page & book review
Have you ever considered "Family devotions"
Remember, it's our duty to train up our precious children. Why not start with...
Leading Little Ones to God by Marian M. Schoolland (published by: Harper Collins)
This book is intended to be a guide to parents who desire to teach their little ones (about 5 - 6 years old) about God. Parents are the child's best teachers, and perhaps there is nothing more important in his spiritual development than quiet talks with Mom or Dad or both, about the great God who made us and loves us.
Little children enjoy being read to. This can be done at almost any time of the day, although it is best to reserve it for a regular, recurring quiet period - perhaps after the last mealtime. Material such as this requires thinking on their part and consequently needs to be read slowly, so that the child's mind can take it in.
There are questions included to suggest subjects for conversation. They will help parents to understand the child's thinking and allow the child to apply the Bible teachings to his own small affairs.
A small child cannot be expected to memorise all the Bible verses, but repetition and discussion will lay a groundwork of familiarity. Older children may enjoy committing at least parts of a verse to memory.
Since singing is a stimulus and inspiration to Christian living, as well as an expression of faith and joy, I hope parents and children will sing songs together. Singing is a lovely way of praising God and strengthening our faith and trust. Often a little talk on the meaning of the chorus will help.
Prayer is a precious means of sealing in the child's heart the seed that has been sown. There are prayers at the end of each lesson which may be used for this purpose.
Each portion of the book unfolds some great truths, is beautifully illustrated and provides helpful guidance. Children will learn how great and wonderfill God is and how He takes care of them. They will learn how to love Him and live close to Him, even though we cannot see Him.
My prayer is that this book may be a real blessing in every home where it is used to honour God and that the little ones Jesus took into His arms may come to know and love Him.
Available at Cum books. Cost: R214.95
Reviewer: Colleen Cloete (Grade I Teacher - Herbert Hurd Primary School)
