How to Choose Bible Stories Appropriate for Preschoolers

The Bible naturally entertains and teaches with action-packed stories; some are violent, while others are miraculous. Sunday schools throughout the world handpick Bible tales that will suit younger children, but sometimes they need softened up a bit. Kids are easily bewildered and sometimes sensitive to details found in the Bible, especially those from the Old Testament that deal with demands, threats or extreme wrath against enemies. However, there are several Bible stories that have held their own as longtime, proven favorites.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Pick the classic Noah's Ark tale. It's full of wondrous images, from every animal in the world stepping in neat pairs into a giant hand-crafted wooden boat to the symbolic rainbow and dove at the end. You will need to tread lightly over the implication that the rest of the world and people are destroyed, unless you wish this to serve as a severe warning against sin for the average preschool crowd.

2. Select another colorful Old Testament tale that involves animals. Kids are naturally drawn to animal stories and understand the symbolism. However, take care to pick one that does not evoke a disturbing image of animal or juman sacrifice (such as Abraham and Isaac). Some stories that work are Daniel and the Lion's Den and Jonah and the Whale. Delivered in major detail, the Daniel story can invoke bewildered questions regarding those who were thrown to the lions but did not escape. The Jonah story may need the most editing for understanding regarding its background. A whole city, Nineveh, is forced to repent for its evil ways or else be destroyed. God sends Jonah as a messenger and thus begins the tale.

3. Focus on a New Testament animal story or parable. Reflect on the meaning of Jesus as a shepherd with the people (or children) as his lambs and the importance of being loved, cared for and forgiven. Share how a shepherd cares for his sheep and the joy of one who was lost and then found.

4. Choose a miracle story such as one of Jesus' many New Testament miracles. Good choices are the stories of Jesus healing the leper, making the lame walk, turning water into wine and so on. His own walking on water can fascinate the little ones as well. Don't forget to include the feeding of the 5,000 from only a few fishes and loaves. Preschoolers can grasp the magical, miraculous nature of these simple narratives.

5. Tell the Easter story, but don't necessarily give graphic details about Jesus on the cross, the crown of thorns or the nails piercing His hands and feet. Even the Last Supper might need some editing for preschoolers, considering the betrayal and body and blood. Focus on the third day, when Jesus rose again and the miracle of moving the rock from the tomb and seeing the tomb empty. Emphasize Jesus' rising into heaven and how everyone receives eternal life.

6. Repeat the Christmas story of Jesus' birth surrounded by animals as the ultimate animal and human story, filled with love. Kids as young as 3 and 4 years old never tire of hearing of the poor baby Jesus born in the barn.