Memorizing Scripture with your Child- part 5

In order for your child to really tuck God’s Word away in their heart, they will need to regularly practice the verses they are learning.  It is most helpful if they have a consistent time each day set aside to work on their memory verses. 

Children have different learning styles. The main learning styles I was introduced to when I took education classes in college were: Visual (learning by seeing), Auditory (learning by hearing), and Kinesthetic (learning by movement).  If you understand the way that your child learns best, you can work with them on practicing their memory verse using that particular learning style.  Most children learn using a mixture of these styles. 

The added bonus: as you help your child learn Bible verses, you are learning them too!

For the visual learner:

• They can write out the verse on an index card and read it aloud several times.  This lets them see a picture of the words in their mind. 
• You can have your child draw a picture or series of pictures that illustrate the verse. 

Here is an example of Proverbs 6:16-19 that my kids illustrated on flashcards several years ago.  I would hold up the flashcards as they said the verses.  The words are written on the back of the index cards so that I could make sure they were saying it word perfect.

Proverbs 6:16-19:

"These six things the Lord hates, yes, seven are an abomination to Him: a proud look, a lying tongue (this tongue is saying "I didn't do it" but in my mind, "I did."), hands that shed innocent blood, a heart that devises wicked plans, feet that are swift in running to evil, a false witness who speaks lies.  And one who sows discord among brethren."

For the auditory learner:

•   You say a section of the verse.  Have your child listen, and then repeat it after you.  Go through the verse section by section.  Then increase the length of what you say and have them repeat until they can say the entire verse on their own.
• Put the words of the verse to music.  Then sing it throughout the day.  If you do this, be sure to include the reference in the song as well.

     If you don't know a song that goes with the verse, just put the words to a tune you already know.     

     For example:  Sing Ephesians 2:8-9 to "If You're Happy and You Know it, Clap Your Hands".  

     For by grace you have been saved through faith, (Clap, Clap)

     And that not of yourselves; (Clap, Clap)

     It is the gift of God, not of works,

     Lest anyone should boast. (Clap, Clap)

     (Then add on the end:) Ephesians 2:8 and 9 (Clap, Clap)

     For the kinesthetic learner:

•            Say the verse using appropriate hand motions- ones that give you a clue about the word each motion goes with.  Again, at the end, put your hands together and then open them up like a little book while saying the verse’s reference.
•      Do different forms of exercise while saying the verse to the rhythm of the exercise.  Do jumping jacks, march in place, touch your toes, jump rope.

These are just a few simple ideas.  I would love to hear what other things you have done that your children have benefitted from.  

"Your Word I have hidden in my heart..."

-Psalm 119:11a