3 Creative Ways to Teach the Old Testament to Your Children: A Conversation with Naomi Dauermann
We got to sit down with Naomi Dauermann, a teacher, grandmother, and passionate advocate for bringing the Old Testament alive in children’s lives. Naomi shared her wisdom, rooted in years of experience as a teacher and homeschooler, about how parents can teach the Old Testament in ways that are engaging, meaningful, and joyful. Her insights remind us that these lessons are not just stories—they are a powerful foundation for understanding God’s love and His plan!
Naomi emphasizes that the Old Testament is essential for fully grasping God’s story. She explains how understanding the Old Testament helps us know who God the Father is, the same God that Jesus and his disciples prayed to. Teaching children these scriptures and stories fosters a deeper connection to God’s promises and His unwavering presence throughout history.
Ideas for Incorporating Lessons into Daily Life
- Through Outdoor Adventures
Naomi shared a great activity of asking, “What do you see outside that God made?” a simple game that can be played during a walk or any time spent outdoors. Children can explore God’s creation while learning to see His hand in everyday life. The goal is for children to know that God’s love and lessons are present in every moment of their lives—not just during Bible lessons. - Everyday Interactions
Children learn as much from their parents’ actions as from their words. Moments of patience, love, and forgiveness in everyday life model God’s character. Naomi reminds us that especially in our children’s early years, “you are God to them…you are giving them a foundation in who God is.” - How to Engage Older Children
Older kids may enjoy diving deeper into Old Testament stories through creative projects. Naomi suggests turning stories into scripts and acting them out. For teens, discussing the complexity of events—like in Exodus or the stories of the prophets—can help them appreciate the depth of God’s plan. Online resources and dramatized videos can make these lessons more vivid and relatable also.
As parents we play such a pivotal role in shaping our children’s faith. As Naomi highlights, your influence extends far beyond any Bible study. The simple act of weaving scripture into daily conversations, games, and activities can leave a profound and lasting impact.
Naomi’s insights inspire us to approach teaching the Old Testament with creativity and joy. Whether through outdoor activities, storytelling, or modeling God’s love in everyday interactions, these moments can enrich your child’s faith and strengthen family bonds.