How to Make Devotion Time Fun with Toddlers

If you’ve ever tried to sit down for a quiet devotion time with your toddler, you know it’s not exactly peaceful or predictable. Toddlers are energetic, curious, and have short attention spans, which can make structured activities a challenge. But here’s the good news: devotion time with toddlers doesn’t have to be quiet or perfect—it can be fun, engaging, and full of joy!

By adapting your approach to fit their developmental stage, you can make devotion time a meaningful and enjoyable experience for both of you. Here are some creative tips to make devotion time fun with your little ones.

1. Keep It Short and Simple

Toddlers have limited attention spans, so keep devotion time short—just 5 to 10 minutes. Choose one simple Bible story, verse, or song to focus on each day.

Example: Read a short Bible story, like Noah’s Ark or Jonah and the Whale, using a toddler-friendly Bible. Keep the language simple and engaging.

2. Use Songs and Music

Music is a powerful way to teach toddlers about God. Sing simple worship songs or Bible verses set to a tune. Songs like "Jesus Loves Me" or "This Little Light of Mine" are perfect for little ones.

Fun Tip: Use instruments like shakers, tambourines, or even pots and pans to make music together. Let your toddler clap, dance, and join in the fun!

3. Incorporate Hands-On Activities

Toddlers learn best through play and hands-on activities. Use crafts, coloring pages, or sensory play to bring Bible stories to life.

Ideas:

• Noah’s Ark: Build a "boat" with blocks and gather toy animals to retell the story.

• Creation Story: Let them color a picture of the sun, moon, stars, animals, and plants as you talk about what God made.

• Jesus Feeds the 5,000: Use goldfish crackers and a small loaf of bread to illustrate the miracle.

  
  

4. Make It Active

Toddlers are full of energy, so incorporate movement into your devotion time.

Examples:

• Play a game of "Follow the Leader" while talking about how we follow Jesus.

• Act out Bible stories like David and Goliath or Jesus calming the storm.

• March around the room like the Israelites marched around Jericho, then shout together when "the walls come down."

  
  

5. Use Visuals and Props

Bring Bible stories to life with visual aids. Use toys, puppets, or picture books to capture your toddler’s attention.

Ideas:

• Use a stuffed lion to tell the story of Daniel in the lion’s den.

• Set up a simple nativity scene to talk about Jesus’ birth.

• Show pictures of animals while discussing creation or Noah’s Ark.

  
  

6. Make Prayer Interactive

Prayer time can be fun and interactive for toddlers. Encourage them to fold their hands, close their eyes, or repeat after you in a short, simple prayer.

Example Prayer: "Dear God, thank You for loving us. Thank You for making the sun and the stars. Help us to love You and others. Amen."

You can also teach them to thank God for specific things, like family, food, or their favorite toys.

7. Create a Routine

Toddlers thrive on routine, so make devotion time a regular part of your day. It could be a morning activity, a post-nap ritual, or part of your bedtime routine.

Tip: Use a specific place, like a cozy corner with a Bible and a few props, to make devotion time feel special.

8. Celebrate Their Progress

Toddlers love praise and encouragement. Celebrate when they remember a story, sing a song, or participate in a prayer. This builds their confidence and excitement for devotion time.

Idea: Create a simple "Faith Chart" where they earn stickers for participating in devotion time.

9. Be Flexible and Patient

It’s okay if devotion time doesn’t go as planned. Toddlers might get distracted, wiggle, or lose interest, and that’s normal! The goal isn’t perfection but planting seeds of faith in their little hearts.

Encouragement: Celebrate small moments of connection, and trust that God is working through your efforts, even on the messy days.

10. Pray for Guidance

Ask God to help you make devotion time meaningful and joyful for your toddler. Pray for patience, creativity, and wisdom as you guide them in their faith journey.

Conclusion

Devotion time with toddlers doesn’t have to be quiet or structured—it can be lively, creative, and fun! By using songs, stories, hands-on activities, and interactive prayer, you can make these moments enjoyable and impactful for your little one.

Remember, you are planting seeds of faith that will grow over time. Even if it seems small now, your efforts are shaping their understanding of God’s love and presence. So, embrace the wiggles, celebrate the giggles, and enjoy this special season of pointing your toddler to Jesus. You’ve got this! ❤️