“When your son asks…” Part 4: How to answer your children’s questions

In your endeavor to answer children’s questions, it is important to keep a few things in mind:

Seek to build within your child a Biblical worldview, that is, a Biblical filter for seeing the world.  We all have certain lenses by which see all of life through. For the Christian, these underlying assumptions about the world should increasingly conform to the truths of Scripture.  As parents, you play a vital role in shaping those assumptions for children, and therefore in answering questions, as in all conversation and instruction with your child, you must consciously strive to help children and teens see the world through the truth contained in God’s word.  The Bible is your ultimate authority in instructing your children.

Welcome the questions! Your child’s inquisitiveness is a gift from God and a vital part of their learning and discovery process. However, if you sense that they are asking questions to challenge your authority or avoid obedience, deal with this appropriately.  For example, if a simple explanation to a “why” concerning a request does not satisfy a child, say to your child, “First, do what I’ve asked, then I’ll answer any questions you have about it.” This  shows your child the importance of obedience, as well as your interest in answering any legitimate questions.  A similar answer can be given if the questions come at times which it you are unable to answer. Return to these questions later for further instruction.  The time you spend addressing your child’s curiosities, not only teaches them about the world in which they live, but also about how much you love and care for them.

If you don’t know the answer, find it out! Not only should you be honest when you don’t know the answer to your child’s question, but you can also use this as a time to show your child where to turn for answers.  Is it a question whose answer can be found in Scripture?  Open your Bible, consult a Bible dictionary, or call your pastor or trusted Christian friend for help discovering the appropriate passage.  Is it a question about how something works? Check out a book from the library, find a reliable website with information, or call a friend knowledgeable in this area.  By so doing, you model to your child the importance of life-long learning as well as share a fun and meaningful learning experience with them.

For more on answering children’s questions, check out the other “When your son asks…” posts:

Part 1: Why Should I Answer Why?, Part 2: The Healthy Lifestyle, Part 3: Death & Tragedy