Parent Resources

Bibles

There are so many different Bibles to choose from it can be overwhelming. Below are some Bible recommendations by age from Family Ministry Director, Kari Larsen.

The Lutheran Study Bible

For high schoolers - adults. Grow deeper in your understanding of God's Word with comprehensive notes. This Bible comes in different styles.

The Beginner's Bible

For preschoolers, this is good for families to read together. The easy-to-read text and colorful illustrations make it a good way to introduce children to the Bible.

The Read and Share Bible

For 1st and 2nd graders, this story Bible has simple re-telling of Bible stories which makes it easy for kids to read on their own.

The Growing in Faith Bible

For 2nd-5th graders, this Bible has full biblical text. It has features that are designed to help parents and children better understand God's Word.

The Action Bible

For 3rd - 6th graders, this story Bible is written comic book style and is great for those who still enjoy a story Bible but are ready for something for older kids.

The Faith Alive

Student Bible

For 5th - 12th graders, the features of this Bible help students as they begin to read God's Word on their own. This is the Bible used at ILS for grades 3-8.

Websites and Apps

Here are a few faith focused websites and apps to help support you as a Christian parent.

  1. Parent Cue - has several resources that give practical insights on parenting for the specific phase of life your children are in: preschool, elementary, or teens. Also available as an app.

  2. Bible App for Kids - This app is fun! Engage with Bible stories and complete interactive activities designed to help your kids grow in their love for Jesus.

  3. Common Sense Media - This site provides reviews on media that kids may be interested in. Trusted ratings are created with families in mind.

  4. Axis - This site is an up-to-date resource for understanding current teen culture. Most regularly available resources are free, but there is also some paid content.

  5. YouVersion Bible - Available online or as an app, YouVersion is the #1 app for reading the Bible. You can read almost any translation and download up to 3 to read offline. Hundreds of Bible readings and devotional plans make this a great resource.

Books

Here are a few faith focused websites and apps to help support you as a Christian parent.

Parenting with Love and Logic

Designed for preschool and beyond, this helpful and practical psychology-based parenting method is an invaluable guide for all parents! Teach your children healthy responsibility and encourage their character growth from a young age. Learn to establish healthy boundaries with your children through easy-to-implement steps without anger, threats, nagging, or power struggles.

Easy to Love, Difficult to Discipline

Focused on the fact that parents love their children, but don't always love their behavior. But how can you guide them without resorting to less-than-optimal behavior yourself? Focusing on self-control and confidence-building for both parent and child, Dr. Bailey teaches a series of linked skills to help families move from turmoil to tranquility.

Sticky Faith

A very practical, research-based book that is all about everyday ideas to build lasting faith in your kids, written by Dr. Kara Powell and Dr. Chap Clark.