A Note for Parents and Leaders

Spiritual understanding develops gradually. Your child may:

This is completely normal and beautiful. Faith isn't something we "finish" — it's a lifelong journey of knowing Jesus better.

You're doing exactly what you need to do by being open to these conversations.

Is Your Child Ready to Explore More?

Look for these signs that your child is ready to go deeper:

If your child isn't showing these signs yet — that's okay! Come back anytime. Your child may be ready in a week, a month, or a year.

Questions for Different Conversations

Choose what fits your child's personality and readiness. You don't need to use all of them.

For the Reflective Child

When you think about Jesus being in your heart, what does that feel like to you?
What's one way you want Jesus to help you be more like Him?

For the Active Child

Show me with your body what it looks like when Jesus is on the throne of your heart — and what it looks like when you're trying to be in charge.
Let's act out the story. You be the mommy and I'll be Kristen — can you explain salvation to me?

For the Child Who Needs More Time

Do you remember the story we read? What was your favorite part?
The book talked about a door, a throne, and a closet in your heart. Can you draw those for me?

For the Child Asking the Big Questions

What do you think it means that Jesus is always ready to come back when we ask Him?
If Jesus is your leader, what do you think He wants you to do tomorrow?

For All Children

Has anything changed since you read this book? How do you feel about Jesus now?

Five-Minute Activities

Simple, doable ways to reinforce what your child learned.

1
Draw Your Heart

Draw a big heart together. Inside, draw a throne for Jesus. Talk about what that means. Decorate it. Hang it up.

5–10 min
2
The Door Game

Walk around your house. Every time you see a door, ask your child: "Is this door open or closed? Is Jesus welcome here in this moment?"

10 min
3
Prayer Practice

Pick one daily moment (bedtime, breakfast, car ride) to ask Jesus for help together. Keep it simple: "Jesus, help me with [specific thing] today."

2 min daily
4
Throne Conversations

When your child makes a choice (big or small), ask: "Was Jesus on the throne for that choice, or were you trying to be in charge?"

1 min throughout the day
5
Story Retelling

Ask your child to tell you the story from the book in their own words. Don't correct them — just listen and celebrate what they remember.

5–10 min

Is This Book Making a Difference?

We'd love to hear how you've used Jesus in My Heart in your home, church, or community.

Share Your Experience

Every child's faith journey is unique.
Trust your instincts. You know your child best.