Children are naturally inquisitive. They have a question for almost everything they see, and each answer you give is followed up with another question. They start with the most amusing questions – anything from where does the sun come from, or why ice is cold. But when they grow older, their questions also begin to get more introspective and mature. It’s inevitable that they will begin asking questions about God and about life and even about religion. How should you handle those questions?
The right parenting attitude
Some parents welcome these questions and see it as an opportunity to teach their children and initiate discourse that will help them. But there are parents who do not look forward to their children’s questions, especially about religion. Most of them are afraid that they may not have the answers to their questions. It is a valid fear but as parents we should equip ourselves with the answers and information that our children are looking for.
Be open to questions
·The most important tip that you should learn is that you should be open to your children’s questions. Make them feel that they can ask you anything and that you are willing to discuss it with them. If you act like certain topics are off-limits you’re just going to suppress your children’s natural tendencies to be inquisitive and you’re also closing an avenue for communication between you and your children.
Be honest
If a question stumps you, be honest enough to admit that you don’t know the answer. Don’t try to make things up or try to confuse with them meandering explanations that don’t lead to anything . Tell them you don’t know the answer and that you’ll try to find out what the answer is. This way, children will know that you value their questions. And please do get back to them with the answers when you do find out.
Find books
There are many picture books that deal with religions. Get a few books and read it with your children. This is a great way of introducing the concept of God and of a Divine Being that guides and loves us.
Be concrete
Religion is one of those concepts that are not tangible and is very abstract. One way of teaching your children about religion in a way that is more concrete to them is by talking about values and morals in a practical way – which is how it is applied in real life. For example, teaching your children about being kind to their siblings and not telling lies is a good introduction to religion.
Teach respect
A very important aspect of talking with your children about religion is diversity. Teach your children that there are many religions and that many people follow a different religion. Don’t eve teach them that one religion is better than another one. Teach them tolerance and respect for other people’s beliefs. If you want, you can even teach them about each religion so they’ll be more aware of the differences in each religion. You have the power to teach your children to become tolerant. There are so many bigots in the world and you wouldn’t want to turn your children into one.
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