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Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it. (Proverbs 22:6)

If you are a Christian, and believe in the teaching of the Bible, you must agree that children should be taught religion. Simple Bible stories teach Christian morals and values - knowing right from wrong. Why would you not want to teach this to your child?

There are many age-appropriate resources for providing religious instruction to your children. Sunday School and Bible School classes combine learning activities with games and stories. Many books and videos provide simplified explanations of various bible passages.

Parents should teach not only their beliefs, but should also teach that there are other religions that believe differently. Children should be taught that believing differently is not bad or wrong, just different than what their family believes. They are taught that there is diversity in religion and tolerance for those who follow a different faith.

Developing a firm connection with religion and the church gives children a sense of identity with the family's chosen religion and a sense of community within that church group. They learn why the parents believe as they do and their basis for that belief. They share spiritual values with the parents.

The teaching of religion to children, however, should not include forcing the child to commit to a specific religion. They should not be taught to blindly follow religious leaders without question. Children should be exposed to various religions and given the opportunity to compare the beliefs of different sects and cultures.

All children will eventually begin to question and to research not only their taught religions, but other religions as well. Such honest questioning should be encouraged. They should be allowed to find what find what they truly believe in, and understand the concept of their faith.

No amount of teaching will prevent an individual from making up their own mind about their religion. Teaching the basics of religion, however, helps form a solid spiritual base upon which to build.

Yes, teach your children religion. As is often said, "If you don't teach them, someone else will!" Wouldn't you rather they heard it from you?

Learn more about this author, Debra Herring.
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