Some of the most profound moments in parenting happen in those magical moments before bedtime. In their earliest years, snuggling up with a book each night creates routine and connection with our children. As they grow, questions and conversations about these stories begin to take center stage. Though it might seem like they are stalling bedtime yet again, kids are actually processing foundational ideas like love, kindness, character, and resilience. They are being shaped. With that in mind, today we’re sharing four books for kids (and parents!) that will help build a foundation of faith—one that helps us better understand God, ourselves, and the world around us.
For Little Hands (Ages 0-4): Jesus Loves the Little Children
The classic song “Jesus Loves the Little Children of the World” has been heard in homes and churches for over a century. This delightful board book includes three new stanzas that reflect God’s inclusive love. The vibrant photographs showcase children from around the globe, creating a captivating reading (or singing!) experience for preschoolers. With the beautiful reminder that all children of the world are “made and loved so perfectly,” these updated lyrics celebrating God’s love will quickly become a favorite in your home, church, or school.
For Growing Minds (Ages 4-9): Kaylee Prays for the Children of the World
Kaylee and her grandfather Halbi love reading the newspaper, faithfully fetched each morning by their dog, Keedo. As they read, they look for ways to pray for the children of the world. But when Kaylee encounters the photo of a sad boy halfway around the world she wonders, Does God really care? This story tenderly guides readers of any age toward the God who hears and answers our prayers―even when we feel overwhelmed or can’t find the right words. From author Helen Lee and illustrator Shin Maeng, Kaylee Prays for the Children of the World features a Korean American family whose desire to seek after God will resonate with families of faith all around the world.
For Finding Your Way (Ages 10-17): The Common Rule Youth Edition: Growing Your Faith in a Distracted World
In a world buzzing with endless notifications, youth are navigating more noise than ever. Encourage them to turn away from screens and toward God with The Common Rule Youth Edition. Tailored specifically for teens and tweens (grades 6-12), this book empowers youth to break free from the stress and anxiety that modern life can impose and allows them space to explore the things God cares about. Adapted from Justin Whitmel Earley’s bestselling book, The Common Rule Youth Edition equips teens with tools to find peace and fulfillment through simple, intentional habits designed to foster freedom and rest. Teens will experience how small actions can lead to significant transformation and will leave with a roadmap to a balanced and meaningful life.
And for a family time of learning, adults can read through The Common Rule while the young people in their lives engage similar themes in The Common Rule Youth Edition. Together you can start new habits, ones that allow you to disengage from technology, establish new routines, and develop a rule of life that transforms your everyday moments into a rhythm of peace and purpose.
For Leading with Love (Parents): Family Discipleship that Works
Family discipleship is one of the most basic ways God has ordained to build his kingdom—and yet most parents struggle to do it consistently. Amid our busyness, the multitude of different approaches, and our own self-doubts, the deck seems stacked against us. But Brian Dembowczyk isn’t here to pile on the guilt or to make us feel like failures. As a parent himself, he knows this struggle firsthand.
In Family Discipleship That Works, Dembowczyk says that the goal of discipling our kids isn’t just passing along head knowledge. It’s teaching them to act like Jesus. The Bible itself is not just a story but a drama in which we ourselves participate, and our kids have roles to play too. Dembowczyk offers practical advice and a wealth of ideas for teaching our kids to imitate the character traits of Jesus himself as we “act out” the Christian life together. As parents, we are indeed called to disciple our children to know and act like Jesus. By God’s grace, that’s a task we can do—not out of guilt but with joy and good hope.
