What Bible Version Is Best for Kids? Parent’s Guide

When my son was six, he picked up my study Bible, looked at the dense text, and asked if God was boring. That moment launched my quest to answer the question so many parents have: what bible version is best for kids? This guide is about finding a Bible that shares God’s amazing story of love in a way children can truly understand and feel.

This guide is based on my own search. For instance, I spent many hours in bookstores and talked with other parents. Most of all, I saw which Bibles made my own kids want to read. Together, we will look at all kinds of Bibles for children, from board books for toddlers to full Bibles for teens. This will help you decide what bible version is best for kids in your family.

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Understanding the Different Types of What Bible Version Is Best for Kids

First, it helps to know the different kinds of Bibles for kids, because they are not all the same. In general, they fit into a few main groups, and each group is for a different age. Consequently, picking the right type of Bible is as key as picking the right translation. Knowing the categories is the first step in determining what bible version is best for kids.

What Are the Best Board Book Bibles for Babies and Toddlers?

For very young children, you don’t need a full Bible. Instead, you are just showing them that there are special stories about God. Usually, these books are strong board books with simple, bright pictures. They tend to focus on one idea or a short story, like Noah’s Ark. The main goal here is to make them feel good about the Bible. It is a time to snuggle and make “Bible time” warm and happy. While there are few words, the feeling of connection is what matters most.

Finding the Right Picture Storybook Bible for Preschoolers

This is what most people think of as a “children’s Bible.” Specifically, these books retell the main stories of the Bible, covering stories from Creation to the travels of Paul. They use simple words that young kids can understand. The pictures are the most important part because they help a child’s imagination and let them see the people and places. For example, my own daughter loved a storybook Bible with bright, happy pictures. For her, David was a real kid with a slingshot, not just a name. Therefore, these books are great for learning the basic stories of the Bible. You can see many good examples on the Christian book website.

How to Choose an Abridged or Paraphrased Bible for Older Kids

As kids get older, they can naturally read better. For this reason, they may be ready for more than a storybook. This is where shorter, paraphrased Bibles are helpful. These are not just stories; in fact, they try to tell the whole Bible story but with easier words. Often, they leave out the harder parts or long lists of rules. This helps the main story flow. Although they may still have pictures, the words are the main thing. This is a great “bridge” Bible because it helps kids move from stories to the real, full Bible.

When Are Kids Ready for a Full-Text Bible Version?

Eventually, your pre-teen or teen will be ready for a full-text Bible. This is the whole Old and New Testament. However, even here, some versions are better than others. It is key to choose a version that is true to the old text but also easy to read. In addition, many Bibles for teens also have helpful extras, like notes, daily thoughts, and maps. The journey to find what bible version is best for kids continues as they grow.

What Specific Bible Version Is Best for Kids at Each Age? A Detailed Look

Now we get to the big question. Here are some ideas for each age group. But remember, you know your child best! For instance, a young child who reads well might be ready for a harder Bible. On the other hand, an older child who is new to the Bible might like a storybook to start. Answering “what bible version is best for kids” depends heavily on their individual stage.

Top Bible Recommendations for Toddlers and Preschoolers (Ages 0-4)

At this age, kids need simple stories and fun pictures. Therefore, the goal is to make it fun and familiar.

• The Beginner’s Bible: This book is a popular classic for good reason. It has simple words and friendly pictures. For years, it has been a top choice for parents. Furthermore, it tells over 90 key Bible stories, so it is a perfect first Bible.
• The Jesus Storybook Bible: I love this Bible. In fact, the title tells you what it’s about: “Every Story Whispers His Name.” The writer, Sally Lloyd-Jones, shows how every story in the Bible points to Jesus. It does more than just tell stories; indeed, it shows kids God’s single, big plan to save us. It is written so well that even adults will enjoy it too.

Best First “Real” Bibles for Early Readers (Ages 5-8)

When kids start to read by themselves, you want them to feel good about it. Of course, pictures are still key, but the words become more important.

• The Adventure Bible for Early Readers (NIrV): The New International Reader’s Version (NIrV) is based on the NIV but is written at a third-grade reading level. This makes it a great first “real” Bible. In addition, the Adventure Bible also has fun extras. For example, it has “Words to Treasure” and “Life in Bible Times” to help kids learn more.

For Tweens (Ages 9-12): What Bible Version Is Best for Kids Growing Up and Asking Questions?

This is an important age. Kids start to ask bigger questions, and they are ready for more of the real Bible text. The question of what bible version is best for kids becomes more about readability and engagement.

• New International Version (NIV): The NIV is a very popular modern English Bible. It is a good mix of being true to the old text and being easy to read. In other words, it is a Bible that your child can use for many years. Many great Bibles for tweens, for instance, use the NIV.
• New Living Translation (NLT): The NLT focuses on sharing the main idea of a verse, not just the exact words. This makes it very easy to read. As a result, it is great for helping kids see the big picture of a story. The language also feels modern and natural.
• The Action Bible: This one is different. Specifically, it tells the Bible’s story like a comic book. This can be great for kids who like pictures or don’t like to read. It is full of action and excitement. Plus, it also does a good job of staying true to the Bible’s stories.

For Teens (Ages 13+): What Bible Version Is Best for Kids Ready for Deep Study?

Teens are ready to read the full Bible. Moreover, they are ready to ask the “why” questions about faith. For them, a good study Bible is a great tool.

• English Standard Version (ESV): The ESV is a “word-for-word” version. It is known for being very true to the original text and is great for deep study. It also uses some classic Bible language, which can be nice. An ESV study Bible gives your teen a great tool for learning.
• New Revised Standard Version (NRSV): The NRSV is used by many churches and is well-known for its accuracy. In addition, it also uses gender-neutral words when the old text meant both men and women. For teens in some churches or those who like to study, this is a top choice. For more information, Focus on the Family has a helpful comparison of popular Bible translations.

Key Features to Look For When Deciding What Bible Version Is Best for Kids

When you are in a store, there are other things to look for besides the version. Indeed, the right extras can help your child enjoy their Bible a lot more as you figure out what bible version is best for kids.

Why Are Age-Appropriate Language and Illustrations Important?

First, this is the most important thing to check. For young kids, the pictures mean everything. Therefore, look for art that is bright and that you like. If you think the art is odd, your child might think so too! For older kids, then, make sure they can read the words without a dictionary.

How Can Helpful Notes and Study Aids Benefit Young Readers?

For older kids and teens, the extras are very helpful. For example, look for things like:

• Book Introductions: A short summary of each book of the Bible that tells who wrote it and what it is about.
• Concordance: A small dictionary in the back that helps kids find verses on different topics.
• Maps: Seeing a map of Jerusalem, for instance, can make the stories feel more real.
• Devotional Content: Short readings or questions that help kids use the Bible in their own lives.

Choosing a Durable Format for a Children’s Bible

Next, let’s be practical. This book is for a kid! So, is it made well? Can you wipe the cover clean? A hardcover book is usually better for young kids. Also, think about the size. A very big and heavy Bible may look nice, but a child may not want to carry it or read it in bed.

Practical Ways to Introduce the Bible to Your Child

Buying the Bible is just the first part. In fact, how you use it at home is what matters. This will decide if it becomes a loved book or just sits on a shelf. Ultimately, the real answer to what bible version is best for kids is found in how your family uses it.

How to Make Getting a First Bible a Special Gift

First, don’t just give it to them on a normal day. Instead, make their first “real” Bible a special event. It could be a gift for a birthday or Christmas. For example, some families have a special party when a child turns seven. Taking time to mark the moment shows your child that this book is important. You can also write a special note inside the cover.

Why You Should Read the Bible and learn What Bible Version Is Best for Kids

Also, read the Bible together, especially as they get older. Don’t just tell them to read it. Instead, pick a story and read it out loud. You can take turns reading. Then, stop and ask questions. You could say, “What do you think it felt like to be in that boat with Jesus?” or “Why do you think David was so brave?” This, of course, makes Bible reading a time to share and talk.

The Importance of Living Out the Bible’s Teachings

Finally, this is the most important part. Your kids need to see that the Bible matters to you. If they see it changes how you act and how you love others, then they will want to read it. The best lesson about the Bible’s value will come from your example. The Fuller Youth Institute at Fuller Seminary has great ideas for family reading time.

In the end, my son’s question was a gift. It made me find a way to help him understand. Finding the answer to what bible version is best for kids is a loving journey. It is about giving our children a gift that grows with them. In short, it is a book that will show them the most exciting story ever told.

FAQ – What Bible Version Is Best for Kids