Teaching kids to memorize scripture

*AWANA is hinged on verse memorization.  Here are some helpful hints on helping your child to memorize the scripture week after week. 

*First start by having them read through the entire Scripture.  Help them to understand what it says by explaining the definitions of words, etc.  Get them to explain the meaning of the verse in their own words.  Read the verse out loud 5 times slowly.

*Put the reference and the first 2 words together (Proverbs 22:6 Train up) then pick a method that works for your child. 

Write the verse three times or more. 

Phrases:  break the verse into logical phrases and work from the end of the verse to the beginning. 

Write/Erase: write the verse on a blackboard, say the verse, erase one word, say it again.  Do this until the entire verse is erased.  If a chalkboard is not available write each word on an index card and take away a card instead of erasing. 

First Letters:  write only the first letter of each word. 

Pictures:  draw pictures for each phrase of the verse (like the game show “Concentration”) 

Rhythm/Music: put the verse to the rhythm of a song or make up your own song.  Practice, practice, practice.

 *Encourage your child to do these exercises before going to bed, walking to school or the bus stop, during a commercial break.  Quiz them while their in the car, or waiting in line at the store.  Before you know it, your child will be a member of the 440 Club!  (The 440 Club is a group of AWANA clubbers who have memorized over 440 Bible verses.)

 Teaching non-readers to memorize

*Most pre-school and kindergarten children can’t read, but that doesn’t mean they can’t memorize Scripture word perfect.  For most 3,4 and 5 years olds memorizing comes naturally to them.  Here are some tips from pre-school teachers on making learning fun and easy.

Say the verse several times and make sure they understand every word. 

Make the repetition fun.  Find ways to repeat the verse throughout the days events.

Put the words to the rhythm of their favorite song. AWANA has tapes available with all the scriptures in the handbooks put  to music. 

Use pictures to help them associate the words with the idea. 

Dramatically emphasize certain words. 

Use various activities to make learning fun and exciting.

In His Service,

The Awana Staff

Shiloh Baptist Church

Awana Family Connection

Connect the ministry values of your club to your home!  You’ll find great resources and products that build on the biblical foundation and fun that Awana is known for.  Order tapes and CDs with handbook scriptures recorded to music and much, much more delivered to your door!

http://store.awana.org  or call  1-888-AWANA 4U