Research by George Barna shows that only 17% of church attenders participate in Sunday School, bible study or any learning event outside of worship. If children are naturally curious, then spiritual children will be found in the learning playgrounds of Sunday school or other opportunities for learning and growth. Therefore, the spiritual developmental level of 83% of church attenders is no more than that of a spiritual infant. Spiritual children are found in groups that offer learning opportunities. Child stage characteristics include being playful, curious, asking questions, wanting to be “big” and to explore but stay in touch. Basic lessons in the child stage include learning manners, obedience, rules and good behavior. The primary learning tool for child level disciples will be to read and learn scripture, and particularly the teachings of Jesus is the Gospels. The indicator of readiness to move spiritually from Child to Teen level is less pleasant and typically restlessness, dissatisfaction, and the feeling that something more is needed. They have mastered this level and are now looking for something more challenging; provide them with that challenge. |
The Curious Child "Where did the Sears Tower come from?" "Why do we have to wear seat belts?" Do you know a child who is full of questions? Young children are naturally curious. They believe parents, caregivers, and teachers know a lot about the world. Asking questions and listening to answers are vital to their learning. The way you respond can affect what and how a child learns. - - - Illinois Early Learning Project |
Photo courtesy of Andy Bernay-Roman ©2008 All Rights Reserved Quote from http://illinoisearlylearning.org/tipsheets/curiouschild.htm Barna Research Source: Greg Ogden, Transforming Discipleship: Making Disciples A Few At A Time (Downers Grove, IL: InterVarsity Press, 2003), page 26. Use Backspace Key to Exit |
In the bucket, a fish is swimming in slow, lazy circles. |