Reading the Psalms with kids offers a treasure trove of wonderful reflection and teaching. Maybe this is already something you’re already doing. And maybe you’ve never even considered it. Either way, we’re here to tell you why it’s awesome.
Why Reading the Psalms with Kids Is Awesome
Reading the Psalms with kids exposes them to a wide range of human emotion. Those who penned the Psalms wrote from their hearts in all seasons of life. As a result, we read a wide range of emotional experience. Consequently, children learn to name their emotions, realize their emotions are normal and valuable and are encouraged to share them with God.
Reading the Psalms with kids teaches about prayer. Much of the book is what we might call a prayer journal to The Divine. This teaches children that praying to God is giving voice to our experiences and sharing them with God. It doesn’t have to be perfect or sound right, just honest.
Reading the Psalms with kids encourages theological creativity. The Psalms name and describe The Divine in several ways. For example, the authors offer names such as Maker, Shepherd, Strength, Savior, shield, mother, hiding place, exceeding joy, guide, and many more. Consequently, children can learn to think beyond the language often codified in faith education. For even more, check out this feminine reading of the Psalms.
Reading the Psalms with kids teaches about trust. The Psalms tell of the authors’ deep struggles and joys. In effect, we read of the way in which our spiritual ancestors trusted God in the midst of uncertainty and hardship. So, children have the opportunity to see how they can trust God during all the seasons of their lives.
Reading the Psalms with kids describes God’s faithfulness. Some of us go back and read our journals to see how God has been with us. In the same way, the Psalms show us how God was present at all times of the authors’ lives. As a result, it’s possible for children to begin looking for God’s faithfulness in their own lives.
Reading the Psalms with kids relates concretely to life. As children study the Psalms, reading of the authors’ experiences, they may be reminded of experiences they’ve had. Consequently, conversations about their own lives are possible. This gives us an opportunity to speak into their lives.
Experiencing the Psalms in Color
Reading the Psalms with kids contains a journey into the heart and has the potential to open and deepen conversations about their lives. Are you hoping to invite your children to an even deeper experience of the Psalms? We’ve got you covered! Check out our brand new Psalms Coloring Posters here. We’re pretty excited about them, and we think you will be, too!
We hope this has inspired you in reading the Psalms with your children. Don’t forget to share what you love about the Psalms and how you’re reading them with your kids in the comments below.