Parents in progressive congregations often wonder how (and even whether) to talk about scripture to their children. Some of them may have moved away from the literalistic views they heard or learned in their previous congregations but don't feel confident speaking in a "different voice" yet. Others may wonder about ways to talk about the Bible that are appropriate for children.
Here is a list of talk points I gave to a parenting class once to help us engage in a conversation about reading the Bible at home with children. Feel free to adapt and expand them - turn them into a handout, print them in a newsletter, provide them to teachers, and so on. (Crediting DifferentVoice.com is always appreciated!)
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Terms like "the Word of God" or "Holy Bible" are OK to use, but they can be more difficult to understand. Instead of or in addition to them, talk about the Bible as a story of God's love for us.
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Remember that we must be continual learners. Even parents, pastors, and Sunday school teachers have lots of questions about the Bible and are still learning! So, it's perfectly OK to say, "I don't know."
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Use the word "story" regularly when talking about the Bible and its texts. Children understand well the power of story.
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It's important to see the Bible as a hands-on book within your family, just as you would with many other books in your home.
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Give your children Bibles periodically so that they can grow up with age-appropriate versions and multiple translations.
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When you set loving examples for them, you communicate the message of scripture.
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Allow children to see you using the Bible. They need to see that it's an important book to you, too.
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Talk with your kids about the Bible and why it's important to you. They need to hear you talk about it so that they will feel comfortable talking about it with you.
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Help children understand how Bible teachings apply to today's situations. Though it was not written with 21st-century readers in mind, the stories and teachings are relevant in all times and places.
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Listen with love to what they have to say about the Bible. They will surprise you with their insights!
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Try to follow any statements of what you don't know or believe with related statements of what you do know or believe. Children need to hear your positive views of the Bible, too.
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The truth of the matter is that when a child asks you about God, he or she is asking not only about God but also about you.