When is the earliest time we can teach children about Jesus? When they begin to talk? When they learn to read? When they begin attending Sunday school?

Studies have shown that by the end of the second trimester, babies developing in the womb are able to respond to sound. Parents are even encouraged to talk to and sing to their babies in utero.

It seems like it’s never too early to start learning. So I wonder, is there such a thing as “too soon” to teach children about Jesus? Should we wait until they’re “old enough” to understand concepts that even adults struggle to grasp?

We reason there is time enough later to teach children about God or the realities of sin. We may think children don’t have the same emotional needs as adults, but even young people struggle with temptation, failure, and a need to feel loved and accepted. And children comprehend much more than we might imagine.

It’s never too soon to share with a child how much God loves him or her and that He sent His Son, Jesus, to show us that love. Children need to experience the comfort, joy, and hope that come from the knowledge that they are loved and valued, not just by their family, but also by the God who created them.

Of course, it’s important to use age-appropriate language and illustrations. For younger children, the best way to start might be with a finger play or a story, or even a song.

Too early to share the good news about Jesus? Never!