The Value of Christian Games, DVD's and Books (see banners for sources). 

The best way for children to learn Christian values is by watching how their parents treat them, treat others, and how they react to the issues of life in general. 

Another way is through their church experience if the church is Bible based and not afraid to teach the scriptures in truth and precept. 

Yet another means of learning is for parents to surround their children with materials that entertain them, while planting God's Word into their hearts at the same time. 

When my children were small, I would sit them down at regular intervals to teach them Biblical principles.  I read straight from the Bible and would have them memorize verses in order to build their characters through Jesus Christ.  

I had a strong desire and passion to teach them because when I was little, I never received the Word of God, only personal interpretations of scripture out of context from family to manipulate me and others. 

Even though I didn't want to admit it at first, I realized that they were bored with my lessons and that I was doing them more harm than good.  With every lesson I taught, I was reinforcing boredom and irritation with God's Word in them. 

What I decided to do was to give them faith and prayer projects instead.  For instance, if one of them lost something, we would say a prayer in agreement to find it.  Then we'd look for the lost item.

After it was found, they had a working understanding of Biblical faith and prayer.  They were also excited, believing that this was an adventure  in God's Word rather than a boring lesson. 

This is why I believe that children can learn important principles more easily from themed based creative toys, books, games and videos.  In the case of Christian materials, God's influence will be there with a suttle message that will get results by means of seed planting and action steps. 

However, we can't just give our small children Christian oriented products and expect them to automatically identify with Christ.  We must play the games or watch the DVDs with them regularly in order to motivate and teach them without preaching to them. 

This way they won't get tuned out!  

Older children as well need supervision, but they also need some time to themselves or with friends.  But by buying them Christian books, videos and DVD games, they will be more prepared for facing the difficulties and temptations that come their way. 

Today with so many violent games available for children and outside forces, they can be led astray, especially teens when they are left home alone without anyone to oversee their actions.  

This isn't to say that it will be easy with older children who haven't been used to the Christian message.  They will make fun of Christian media and complain that it will put them out of the loop with their friends. 

In this case, it will be necessary to be patient and spend time slowly introducing them to the Christian message.  It will also take prayer and faith. 

You won't be able to force them to believe the way you want them to unless you remain loving and accepting of them for who they are at the moment.  After all, they are a product of all the information you allowed in their lives from before that time.   

Our children and teens need a firm, loving hand to help them do the right thing.