Children's Spiritual Books

Encouraging Spiritual Growth in Children

A must for the concerned parent.

Children’s literature has traditionally centered on two types of tales and legends – The European folklore and the Biblical Tradition. The real intent behind exposing children to these tales was never truly for entertainment, but as part of their moral education. Their subject matter was carefully restricted to match the ethos of the day.

Times have changed however - with the shift away from the traditional Christian view to a more open, innovative and more recently, open-minded exploration of the various ways of living one’s life in harmony.

Literature exposing spiritual grounding or awareness can help children develop a healthy balance of mind, body and spirit enabling them to respond better to life’s challenges. Some recent studies have suggested that a relationship with a higher being is ‘the most protective element for your children’.

Indeed, how families actually define "higher being" can differ considerably with their religious beliefs. However, regardless of what denomination they are, what is important is the connection to something larger than the individual.

If the child feels a sense of connection then they are likely to feel a sense of companionship. This in turn can make the child more resilient to life's troubles, whether they be big or small.

Overseas, ‘Spiritual’ or ‘New Age’ children’s books are in as much demand as ‘New Age’ adult reading material and the trend is likely to follow here in Australia. The classification ‘New Age’ brings interesting connotations to some however it primarily means ‘a belief in oneself’ and it can signify a religious book yet with a greater focus on the spiritual and with less emphasis on diety.

Enlightening and spiritual children’s titles are a must in current times. Stories that encourage spiritual participation, stories and meditations to calm the troubled and stressed youngster and perhaps most importantly, stories to lighten the heart and renew the sense of belonging to the world are welcomed by many parents.

Spiritual words that are experienced in a consistent spiritual context can only advance the atmosphere for the spiritual development of children. We need to nurture our children's spiritual awareness because without it their hopes, dreams and daily lives will be immeasurably poorer.

Many well know international authors such as Deepak Chopra are indeed as passionate about Children’s spiritual skills.

” A child raised with spiritual skills will be able to answer the most basic questions about how the universe works. They will understand the source of creativity both within and outside themselves. They will be able to practice non-judgement, acceptance and truth….And they will be free from crippling fear and anxiety about the meaning of life that is the secret dry rot inside the hearts of most adults.” Deepak Chopra.

Given our own internal stories of how we understand ourselves, as a child and adult, are partly shaped by the stories heard in our youth, it is little wonder that choosing what kind of literature to expose to our beloved children has become more of an issue with caring parents.