Question:

Recently, my 5 year old daughter (Bailey Ann) has begun to question reality. Of course there was an underlying question which was, "How do I know that God and Jesus are real?" We are a christian family, and Bailey has been nurtured by a loving church family. I spoke to Bailey about things that are not sensible, but I struggle to give a good answer to a five year old (she is an analytical child). I have always believed in making the special opportunities to influence your child count. Would you please offer some advice.

Answer:

Thanks for your question. Tough question from a five year-old! At five years-old, I believe that your daughter will get a lot of her belief that God is real from you and your faith community. You certainly want her to trust you - when you say that God is real! Your church will also provide a primary foundation for your daughter's belief in God - as you, in commmunity with others say together, "we believe."

I think you did the right thing by talking about things that are sensible and aren't sensible. I suggest that you talk about God and Jesus in a historical context. Explain how people throughout history have believed that God is real just like people today believe. I think you can also share about the Bible as a record of God's reality. You might try explaining how even though you can't see some things, it doesn't mean they aren't real, as in when you go to work and your daughter can't see you, doesn't mean that you're not real anymore. These of course, are just suggestions. You can probably think of more on your own!

Hope this helps!

Blessings,

The HomeWord Team