Zonderkidz FAQ


Q:  What's the most popular Bible storybook you publish for children who can read but may not be ready for a full-text Bible?
A:  The Beginner's Bible® recently refreshed with new illustrations, is our bestselling Bible for kids 6 and under. Parents, grandparents, teachers, churches, and others who minister to kids have purchased more than 4 million copies since it was first published in 1985. 

 

Q:  Help! I have two almost-teenage daughters (11 and 12) and can’t get them interested in reading what I consider “spiritual” books—the Bible, devotional materials, etc. Can you suggest some books that will help them think about spiritual issues, but aren’t so blatant that they seem "uncool" (to use my daughters words)?
    A:  We have lots of fiction titles for girls just their ages, some historical novels , and some contemporary , that deal with the same issues experienced by girls ages 8–12: peer pressure, bullying, being "cool" and fitting in, boyfriends, family issues, and the list goes on. Our newest offerings for girls this age, the Faithgirlz™ line, has a website, a series of novels about a girl named Sophie, and devotional materials that springboard from her story. Faith is central to all of these series, and presented in a way that will draw your daughters into a faith of their own, rather than turn them off.

      

    

Q:  How can I make reading aloud to my child(ren) as rewarding and effective as possible?
A:
1. Become familiar with the book before you share it. Reading the book ahead of time makes it easier to read aloud and more enjoyable for reader and listener.

2. Turn off the television and radio, and eliminate other distractions. This will help focus the child's attention on the book and on you.

3. Start with the cover of the book. Read the title and the names of the author and illustrator.

4. Read slowly. It's important that children have time to look at each illustration and understand each word.

5. Read with expression. Use different voices for different characters. Read exciting parts a little faster. Slow down at suspenseful sections. Be creative!

6. Point to the text as you read. This will help young children learn there's a difference between words and pictures. Follow the words with your fingers as you read to teach the concept that words read from left to right.

7. Encourage children to participate. Ask them to point out certain things in the illustrations. Ask questions as you read and talk about the story when you are done.

8. MOST IMPORTANTLY—HAVE FUN!


Q:  As a new parent it seems there’s so much to worry about. When do I start wondering if my kids are getting enough spiritual input?
A:  Our culture does seem to prey upon the fears of new parents, but the fact that you’ve asked the question puts you out in front! Kids learn by observation, so even in the womb they can hear your voice telling them about God, and praying for them. There’s no reason for that to stop at birth—so keep praying over and with them, singing to them, even reading your own Bible or devotional aloud. But worry? No. As long as your faith is an integral part of your daily life, it will be evident to them.

 

Q:  When I was growing up, we read only the family Bible. Now there are all these other books—devotionals, fiction, nonfiction. How do I choose what’s right for my child?
A:  The key to engaging a child is to find Bibles and books that are most relevant to the child's personal development and social skills. Zonderkidz publishes books designed for kids at all levels, including Bible storybooks that feature engaging narratives of principal Bible stories, children's full-text study Bibles, and even devotional Bibles with special themes designed for kids. For children 8-15 there are even products created specifically for boys and specifically for girls. To help you select relevant products ask yourself:

1. How will my child use this book or Bible? Will it be read for storytelling, to begin memorizing Scripture, or to be introduced to the stories and characters of the Bible?

2. What's the spiritual and emotional development of my child? Has she begun to ask questions about God or is she more interested in learning by repetition?

3. At what level can my child comprehend what they are reading? Will he need to be read to or can he read by himself? Can she put what she learns into practice or would a product that has life application questions or suggestions be more useful?

 

Q:  How can I help my children develop good Bible study habits?
A:  First, you can show them you’re interested in the Bible by studying it yourself—and with them. Kids learn by example and will “catch” the values you live out. Next, make sure they have an age-appropriate Bible that will engage them wherever they’re at. There are story Bibles for the tiniest folk, in interesting shapes and sizes, with colorful art that will practically reach out and grab preschoolers! And there are literally hundreds of Bibles specifically geared toward young readers, 8-10 year olds, and preteens.

Another approach is to help them engage with the Bible a little at a time by way of kids’ devotionals. Popular formats include a verse for the day with a bit of teaching, thought-provoking questions and side-notes that make the verse come alive through humor, real-life application, and examples from the lives of other kids. Most of all, don’t give up! Your kids need spiritual input—and who better to get it from than you?!

 

Q:  I’m concerned about all the TV my kids watch. What makes children learn to love reading?
A:  A number of years ago a government study was done on how to grow early readers. After a ton of money was spent on the study, the conclusion was something most of us know innately. It was not early reading programs or private preschool that were most effective. The best training consisted of parents who held their kids on their laps and simply read to them. The combination of a parent's arms around them, mom or dad's words in their ears, and the shared experience of a book were the ultimate “scientific” approach to growing kids who will read.