The grade school age division in churches can range from a primary age child (grades 1-2) to a pre-teen (grades 5-6). While there’s a big difference between a primary age child and a pre-teen, one reality holds true for both of them. They all need to be actively engaged in Bible learning.
Importance of Engaging Grade School Children in Accordance with their Age Level Abilities
Here are two reasons we need to constantly engage grade school students:
- If not engaged in the lesson, students will likely be engaged in something else which usually spells trouble.
- If the activity is not in keeping with their age developmental characteristics, students could get frustrated or bored which can lead to discipline problems.
The Age Level Characteristics: Grade School Module, available through the Ministry Tools Resource Center store, includes handouts on age developmental characteristics of grade school children as well as a couple of articles about them. This module, which can be ordered separately, is part of a larger resource that also includes Early Childhood, Youth, and Adults age divisions.
For additional help, go to: Grade School Age Level Teacher Training Resources Resources
What challenges do teachers face in getting students interested in studying the Bible, and how can they overcome them?
Children often come because their parents bring them. Perhaps one of the greatest challenges is helping students “want” to be there and to learn. That deals with motivation which is usually overcome by making connections. What is the connection between the Bible and their lives? Why is connection with the God of the Bible important for them? Let me suggest you read these articles:
Children may lack understanding of how to study the Bible. They may not have good examples at home and so they come to class unsure of its value. Teachers can help overcome this challenge by providing tools and a model. Let me suggest you read these articles:
You may also find more helpful articles at this link: How to Teach Students to Value, Study, Know & Apply the Bible