Getting our kids connected with God’s Word can feel like a big task, especially with all the distractions vying for their attention. But imagine if they had a daily guide – a fun, engaging way to learn about faith, discover God’s incredible love, and build a strong spiritual foundation! That’s where devotionals for kids come in handy. They’re more than just books; they’re tools that help young minds grasp big truths in bite-sized, age-appropriate ways.
Finding the right devotional can make all the difference, transforming quiet time from a chore into a joy. Whether your child is just starting their faith journey or looking to deepen their understanding, there’s a perfect fit out there. We’ve sifted through some of the best options available to help your little ones (and maybe even the whole family!) grow in their spiritual walk.
Let’s dive into our top picks for the best devotionals for kids!
1. Jesus Calling: 365 Devotions For Kids
This children’s version of the beloved Jesus Calling devotional brings Sarah Young’s unique “Jesus speaks directly to you” style to a younger audience. Each day offers a short, comforting message written from Jesus’ perspective, helping kids feel His personal love and presence in their daily lives. It’s a wonderful way to introduce children to the concept of a personal relationship with God, making big spiritual concepts feel intimate and accessible.
Key Features:
- 365 daily devotions for a full year of spiritual growth.
- Written from Jesus’ perspective for a personal connection.
- Age-appropriate language and relatable topics.
- Includes Scripture references for further exploration.
- Beautiful illustrations to engage young readers.
Pros:
- Helps children feel a direct, personal connection with Jesus.
- Simple, encouraging messages are easy for kids to understand.
- Daily format promotes consistency in quiet time.
- Familiar and trusted brand for many Christian families.
Cons:
- Some prefer a more traditional Bible story-based devotional.
- May be too simplistic for older, more theologically curious kids.
User Impressions: Parents frequently praise how this devotional brings peace and comfort to their children. Kids often feel understood and loved, making their daily spiritual discipline a cherished part of their routine. Some wish for more in-depth Scripture study, but for daily encouragement, it hits the mark.
- See it on Amazon here
2. Indescribable: 100 Devotions for Kids About God and Science
Authored by Louie Giglio, a master at revealing God’s wonder through creation, Indescribable is a fantastic devotional for kids who love to ask “why?” and “how?” It beautifully weaves together incredible scientific facts about the universe, animals, and the human body with biblical truths, showing how God’s magnificent design is evident everywhere. This book is perfect for igniting a child’s sense of awe and wonder while deepening their understanding of God as the ultimate Creator.
Key Features:
- 100 science-based devotions that highlight God’s creation.
- Stunning photography and illustrations bring concepts to life.
- Explores fascinating facts about space, earth, animals, and people.
- Includes Scripture, prayer, and a “Be Amazed” section with fun facts.
- Perfect for inquisitive minds aged 6-10.
Pros:
- Engages kids through their natural curiosity about the world.
- Strongly reinforces God as the intelligent designer.
- Combines learning about science with spiritual lessons seamlessly.
- Visually appealing and holds children’s attention.
Cons:
- Not a 365-day devotional, so it won’t last a full year.
- Some topics might require a parent to explain more complex scientific ideas.
User Impressions: Families rave about how this book makes learning about God’s power fun and educational. Kids are often captivated by the science facts and come away with a profound sense of God’s greatness. It’s a definite hit for nature lovers and future scientists!
- See it on Amazon here
3. Preteen Devotional for Girls: 52 Weeks of Encouraging…
Navigating the preteen years can be tricky, but this devotional is specifically designed to speak to the hearts of 8-12 year old girls. It offers 52 weekly devotions tackling relatable topics like friendship, self-esteem, managing emotions, school pressures, and trusting God through change. It’s an empowering resource that helps girls understand their identity in Christ and confidently face the challenges of growing up.
Key Features:
- 52 weekly devotions, ideal for a year of spiritual reflection.
- Addresses common issues faced by preteen girls.
- Includes relevant Scripture, reflection questions, and practical applications.
- Encourages self-worth and confidence rooted in faith.
- Written in an engaging, relatable tone for its target audience.
Pros:
- Highly relevant content for the unique struggles of preteen girls.
- Weekly format allows for deeper thought and discussion.
- Fosters personal reflection and spiritual growth.
- Helps build a strong foundation of faith during formative years.
Cons:
- Exclusively for girls, so not suitable for mixed-gender groups.
- Some girls might prefer a daily format over weekly.
User Impressions: Parents love how this devotional empowers their daughters, giving them tools to navigate tough situations with grace and faith. Girls appreciate the direct and honest approach to their concerns, often finding comfort and guidance in its pages. It’s truly a gem for young ladies!
- See it on Amazon here
4. Our Daily Bread for Kids: 365 Meaningful Moments with God
Building on the trusted legacy of the Our Daily Bread ministry, this kids’ version provides 365 short, engaging stories and reflections that connect everyday experiences with biblical truths. Each day offers a simple Scripture, a relatable anecdote, and a brief prayer prompt, making it easy for even young children to have a meaningful moment with God. It’s a straightforward and gentle introduction to daily spiritual practice.
Key Features:
- 365 daily devotions for a full year.
- Short, relatable stories with clear moral lessons.
- Includes a Scripture verse and a simple prayer prompt for each day.
- Easy-to-understand language for younger children.
- Features bright and colorful illustrations throughout.
Pros:
- Highly accessible for a wide range of ages due to its simplicity.
- Familiar and respected brand for Christian resources.
- Promotes consistent daily quiet time with God.
- Great for quick, meaningful family discussions.
Cons:
- May lack the in-depth exploration some older kids desire.
- The stories are often brief, which might not hold attention for long for some.
User Impressions: Many families consider this a staple for introducing kids to daily devotions. They appreciate its consistent quality and how it helps children connect biblical principles to their own lives. It’s often praised for being a gentle and encouraging start to a child’s faith journey.
- See it on Amazon here
5. How Great Is Our God: 100 Indescribable Devotions About…
Another brilliant offering from Louie Giglio, How Great Is Our God is a companion to Indescribable, continuing the journey of discovering God’s glory through the wonders of His creation. This devotional dives even deeper into specific aspects of the universe, our planet, and fascinating creatures, all while pointing back to the magnificent Creator. It’s designed to deepen a child’s understanding of God’s power and intricate design in a way that truly inspires awe.
Key Features:
- 100 brand-new devotions focused on God’s incredible creation.
- Explores complex scientific topics made understandable for kids.
- Features amazing facts, stunning visuals, and Scripture connections.
- Encourages a deep appreciation for the natural world and its Designer.
- Ideal for elementary and preteen children with a love for discovery.
Pros:
- Expands on the popular science-and-faith theme, offering fresh content.
- Perfect for curious kids who love learning about the world.
- Helps children see God’s hand in everything around them.
- High-quality presentation with captivating photos.
Cons:
- Like Indescribable, it’s not a full-year devotional.
- Some content might overlap slightly if the child has already read Indescribable.
User Impressions: Reviewers often highlight how this book sparks incredible conversations within families. Kids are amazed by the facts and genuinely moved by how God’s creative genius is displayed. It’s an excellent follow-up or alternative for kids who devoured Indescribable and want more!
- See it on Amazon here
6. The Bible Recap Kids’ Devotional: 365 Reflections and…
Inspired by the wildly popular The Bible Recap for adults, this kids’ devotional takes children on a year-long journey through the Bible, helping them understand God’s story from Genesis to Revelation. It breaks down complex biblical narratives into manageable, kid-friendly reflections, emphasizing God’s character and consistent love throughout Scripture. This is an excellent resource for families who want to read through the Bible together in an understandable way.
Key Features:
- 365 daily devotions covering the entire biblical narrative.
- Simplifies complex theological concepts for young minds.
- Focuses on God’s character and His ongoing story.
- Includes a short reflection, Scripture, and prayer prompt each day.
- Designed to be a companion to a Bible reading plan.
Pros:
- Helps children grasp the overarching story of the Bible.
- Fosters a deeper understanding of God’s attributes.
- Great for families who are also doing the adult Bible Recap.
- Promotes a consistent engagement with the full breadth of Scripture.
Cons:
- May require a separate kid’s Bible for the actual readings.
- Some kids might prefer devotionals focused on specific themes rather than a chronological overview.
User Impressions: Families who use this praise its ability to make the Bible come alive for their children, connecting the dots of God’s story. It’s seen as an invaluable tool for children’s spiritual formation, helping them understand the bigger picture of God’s redemptive plan.
- See it on Amazon here
7. Deep Roots: A Family Devotional for Kids, Teens and…
Unlike many devotionals aimed at specific age groups, Deep Roots is designed for the entire family to engage with together – from kids to teens and adults. It provides a structured yet flexible approach to family worship, offering devotions that encourage discussion, shared learning, and spiritual growth for everyone at the table. This is perfect for busy families looking to establish a consistent rhythm of spiritual connection.
Key Features:
- Designed for multi-generational family use (kids, teens, adults).
- Flexible format suitable for various family schedules.
- Encourages interactive discussions and shared learning.
- Covers essential biblical truths and character development.
- Focuses on building a strong family faith foundation.
Pros:
- Facilitates meaningful family bonding and spiritual discussion.
- Addresses different comprehension levels within one devotional.
- Helps parents model faith and lead their families spiritually.
- Builds a strong spiritual culture in the home.
Cons:
- Requires active participation from parents to lead discussions.
- Younger kids might need more simplified explanations on some topics.
User Impressions: Families absolutely love the shared experience this devotional provides. Many highlight how it brings everyone together, sparking rich conversations and helping each family member grow. It’s often recommended for its ability to create cherished family moments centered around God’s Word.
- See it on Amazon here
Wrapping Up Your Search for the Best Devotionals for Kids
Choosing the best devotionals for kids really depends on your child’s age, interests, and what you hope to achieve. Whether you’re looking to instill a daily habit, explore big questions about science and faith, or foster family spiritual growth, there’s a fantastic resource out there just waiting to be discovered.
No matter which one you pick, the ultimate goal is to help your child connect with God in a meaningful way, growing in their understanding of His love and truth. Happy reading and growing!
FAQ: All Your Questions About Kids’ Devotionals Answered!
Q1: Why are devotionals important for kids?
A1: Devotionals provide a structured and age-appropriate way for children to learn about God, the Bible, and Christian values. They help kids develop a consistent habit of spending time with God, build their faith foundation, and understand how biblical truths apply to their everyday lives, fostering spiritual growth from a young age.
Q2: What age is appropriate to start devotionals?
A2: You can start introducing devotional concepts to children as young as 3-4 years old with simple picture-based books or short story devotions. For structured devotions, ages 5-6 are generally a good starting point, with content becoming more complex as they grow into preteen and teen years. Always choose a devotional that matches your child’s comprehension level and interests.
Q3: How often should my child use a devotional?
A3: Most children’s devotionals are designed for daily use, but consistency is more important than frequency. Starting with 3-5 times a week might be more realistic for busy families. The key is to make it a positive, enjoyable experience rather than a chore. Family devotions might be less frequent but involve deeper discussion.
Q4: Should I do devotionals with my child, or should they do it independently?
A4: For younger children (under 10), doing devotionals together is highly recommended. It allows you to guide discussions, answer questions, and model spiritual discipline. As children get older, you can encourage more independent reflection, but still check in, discuss what they’re learning, and occasionally join them to keep the connection strong.
Q5: How do I choose the right devotional for my child?
A5: Consider your child’s age, interests (e.g., science, animals, emotions, Bible stories), and learning style. Look for books with engaging illustrations, clear language, and relatable topics. Read reviews and consider if you want a daily, weekly, or family-focused format. The best devotional is one your child will actually use and enjoy!
Q6: What if my child isn’t interested in using a devotional?
A6: Don’t force it! Try different approaches. Maybe a devotional with more illustrations, a different theme (like science and faith), or one that includes interactive elements. Try doing it as a family to make it a shared experience. Keep it short, positive, and don’t be afraid to take a break and reintroduce it later with a fresh approach. Remember, connection with God can happen in many ways, not just through a book.
Q7: Are there devotionals specifically for different age groups within the “kids” category?
A7: Absolutely! You’ll find devotionals tailored for preschoolers (ages 3-5), early elementary (ages 6-8), late elementary (ages 9-11), and preteens (ages 10-12). Each age group has unique developmental and spiritual needs, and many devotionals are designed with these specific stages in mind to ensure relevance and engagement.