Five Factors to Consider When Buying a Bible for a Child

I’ve been working on an Amazon store where I’ll link to dozens of books and other items that I think might be of interest to readers of Leading Kids Today. My goal was to get this store up in time for Christmas so parents and others who are fortunate enough to be shopping for a child this year would have an easy way to select Bibles and other Christian resources.

If you’re looking for a children’s Bible this year, here are some factors to consider:

1. Completeness of the text
   Is the Bible a verse-by-verse Bible or a collection of Bible stories?  Preschoolers and early grade schoolers would enjoy a collection of stories better than the complete text of the Bible, but once children are able to read, you might consider getting them an easy-to-read full Bible.
2. Illustrations
   Are the illustrations age-appropriate?  If they are too childish, children won’t want to use the Bible.  If they are too “grown-up,” they’ll bore kids.
3. Translation
   Is the translation at the appropriate reading level?  There are many translations of the Bible today, but many are difficult for children to understand well. I believe the best one on the market today is New International Reader’s Version (NIrV).  For more information about reading levels of various Bible translations, check out Bible Translations for Kids:  Choosing the Best One for Your Child.
   
4. Supplemental Features
   Are the supplemental features engaging for the gender and age of the child who will be using the Bible?  Many Bibles for grade schooler children include short devotionals and other features.  Take the time to read some of these before you purchase a Bible to make sure they will engage the recipient of your gift.
5. Binding
   Is the binding sturdy enough for your child?  Even though paperbacks are less expensive, they may not be worth it if your child is hard on books.

There are many children’s Bibles to choose from, but the Beginner’s Bibles and Adventure Bibles are my top picks.

for 1-3-year-olds

for ages 4-8

for 6-10-year-olds

for 8-12-year-olds

To get a full description of each of these Bibles, head to the Leading Kids Today store.  While you’re there, you might as well check out other products for children.  If the child on your list already has a Bible, you might consider getting him or her a devotional.

In addition to books for children, the store also includes resources for parents and children’s ministry leaders.  I’m hopeful this will be a handy way for you to find the resources you’re interested in quickly and easily.  Please take a few minutes to browse through the store, and come back often to see what’s new.

One last thing — if you have experience with children’s Bibles or devotionals, would you please take a minute to leave a comment on this post, letting other readers know what your top pick(s) are and why?  Those who are wanting to get their child a Bible or great devotional this year but aren’t quite sure what to get would really appreciate your suggestions.  Thanks so much and happy shopping!