Understanding 4- and 5-year-olds

1. I learn best by experiencing.
1. ”Let me see it, touch it, feel it, hear it… maybe even taste it.”
2. “Let me act out songs and actions to the Bible events.”

2. I have a short attention span. I may not sit still very long (5-6 minutes).
1. Rotate activities. Some should be quiet and calm and others should be more active and expressive.
2. Create a special place for us to do our activities together.

3. I like learning by repetition.
1. Repeat the same words.
2. Then repeat the story and let me fill in the blanks.

4. I like to use my imagination.
1. Help me act out the Bible event.
2. Let me show you how I might move when we tell the Bible event again.

5. Learning is fun.
1. I like new things… new words… and new concepts.
2. I don’t like trying to learn too many things at one time. Please don’t over teach me.
3. Instead, notice when I learn one thing and celebrate with me!

6. I am a literal learner.
1. I think concretely. Keep your stories simple.
2. Don’t tell me many analogies that are abstract.
3. Trusting God is important to me.

7. I am at the stage where I cannot only understand truths about God but also trust him. You might call this a simple child-like faith.

This is an excerpt from the Ministry Partner Handbook.

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