10+ Best Christian Books for 2-Year-Olds w/ Exercises (2024)

Are you on the hunt for the perfect Christian books for 2-year-olds? Whether you're looking to introduce little ones to faith-based stories or find engaging books that convey Christian values, you've come to the right place. Keep reading to discover a variety of Christian books for 2-year-olds that are sure to captivate and educate the youngest readers in your family.

Fun Christian Books for 2-Year-Olds

• God Gave Us You by Lisa Tawn Bergren, illustrated by Laura J. Bryant
  • Genre(s): Christian, Children's Fiction
  • Synopsis: This charming book tells the story of Little Cub, a curious young bear who learns about how she was a gift from God to her parents.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a heartwarming story that introduces concepts of love and family through a Christian lens, perfect for bedtime reading.
  • Perfect for: Young children and parents looking for a gentle way to introduce religious themes.

• The Beginner's Bible: Timeless Children’s Stories by Kelly Pulley
  • Genre(s): Christian, Bible Stories
  • Synopsis: This is a collection of Bible stories, from Genesis to Revelation, simplified for young readers.
  • Why we recommend this book: Its colorful illustrations and simple narratives make the Bible's stories accessible and engaging for young minds.
  • Perfect for: Toddlers beginning to explore Bible stories and parents who want to introduce biblical principles early.

• If Jesus Lived Inside My Heart by Jill Roman Lord, illustrated by Amy Wummer
  • Genre(s): Christian, Rhyming Fiction
  • Synopsis: A rhyming book that explores how life might look if Jesus were living day-to-day alongside little ones.
  • Why we recommend this book: It uses simple rhymes to convey deep spiritual truths in a way that is easy for toddlers to understand and enjoy.
  • Perfect for: Young children beginning to learn about Jesus and the impact of faith in daily life.

• God Made You Special by Eric Metaxas, illustrated by Greg Hardin and Robert Vann
  • Genre(s): Christian, Inspirational
  • Synopsis: Featuring the beloved characters from VeggieTales, this book teaches children that they are unique and special, created by God with love.
  • Why we recommend this book: It delivers an important message of self-worth through fun stories and familiar characters.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who enjoy VeggieTales and need a positive message about their individual value.

• Prayers for Children by Eloise Wilkin
  • Genre(s): Christian, Prayer Book
  • Synopsis: A collection of traditional prayers accompanied by classic illustrations, tailored for children.
  • Why we recommend this book: It introduces young children to the practice of prayer in a very simple and understandable way.
  • Perfect for: Children and families who want to incorporate prayer into their daily routine.

Educational Christian Books for 2-Year-Olds

• Noah's Ark by Peter Spier
  • Genre(s): Christian, Bible Stories
  • Synopsis: This beautifully illustrated book retells the story of Noah's Ark, focusing on Noah's faith and obedience to God amidst the great flood.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Understanding of biblical narratives, animal recognition, themes of faith and obedience
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a vivid and detailed illustration of the classic biblical tale, making it engaging for very young readers.
  • Perfect for: Toddlers who enjoy stories with animals and parents looking to introduce biblical stories in a visually captivating way.

• Baby's First Bible by Melody Carlson, illustrated by Tish Tenud
  • Genre(s): Christian, Bible Stories
  • Synopsis: A collection of well-known Bible stories, from Creation to the Resurrection, simplified for the youngest readers.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Early literacy, introduction to biblical events, character values such as kindness and bravery
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a perfect introduction to the Bible, with simple text and soothing illustrations ideal for bedtime reading.
  • Perfect for: Infants and toddlers beginning their journey with the Bible and families seeking a gentle way to share faith.

• First Bible Stories by Margaret McAllister, illustrated by Alida Massari
  • Genre(s): Christian, Bible Stories
  • Synopsis: This book introduces young children to the wonders of Bible stories such as Jonah and the Whale and Daniel in the Lions' Den with rich illustrations.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Moral development, recognition of scriptural stories, vocabulary building
  • Why we recommend this book: The engaging storytelling and beautiful artwork make these foundational stories memorable and enjoyable for young minds.
  • Perfect for: Young children who are ready for more detailed stories and parents who want to deepen their child's biblical knowledge.

• God Loves Me More Than That by Dandi Daley Mackall, illustrated by David Hohn
  • Genre(s): Christian, Rhyming Fiction
  • Synopsis: A rhyming book that reassures children of God's immense love for them, comparing it to the highest mountains and the widest seas.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Understanding of God's love, rhyming and literacy skills, emotional reassurance
  • Why we recommend this book: It uses creative comparisons and rhythmic text to convey a deep and comforting message that is easy for toddlers to grasp.
  • Perfect for: Young children needing affirmation of love and families seeking a faith-based, comforting bedtime story.

• The Story of Jesus by Patricia A. Pingry, illustrated by Lorraine Wells
  • Genre(s): Christian, Bible Stories
  • Synopsis: A simple and straightforward introduction to the life and teachings of Jesus Christ, tailored for very young children.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Basic knowledge of Jesus' life, introduction to Christian values, early literacy
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides a clear and concise overview of Jesus' most important moments, making it suitable for the youngest readers.
  • Perfect for: Toddlers and preschoolers beginning to learn about Jesus and Christian teachings.

Challenging Christian Books for 2-Year-Olds

• The Tale of Three Trees by Angela Elwell Hunt, illustrated by Tim Jonke
  • Genre(s): Christian, Folklore
  • Synopsis: This folktale tells the story of three trees on a mountain, each with big dreams about their future, which are fulfilled in unexpected ways that intertwine with the life of Jesus.
  • Why this book is challenging: The narrative structure and underlying themes require comprehension of abstract concepts like hope and destiny.
  • Why we recommend this book: It beautifully illustrates how God's plans are bigger and better than our own, encouraging faith and trust.
  • Perfect for: Young children who enjoy stories with deeper meanings and parents who wish to discuss spiritual life lessons.

• When God Made You by Matthew Paul Turner, illustrated by David Catrow
  • Genre(s): Christian, Inspirational
  • Synopsis: This book celebrates how God made each child unique and with intention, emphasizing individual talents and personalities.
  • Why this book is challenging: The poetic language and vibrant, detailed illustrations engage children at a higher cognitive and aesthetic level.
  • Why we recommend this book: It boosts self-esteem and helps children understand their intrinsic value and purpose in a colorful, engaging way.
  • Perfect for: Toddlers who are beginning to explore their own identities and parents who want to reinforce positive self-image and divine purpose.

• Maybe God Is Like That Too by Jennifer Grant, illustrated by Benjamin Schipper
  • Genre(s): Christian, Realistic Fiction
  • Synopsis: A young boy living in the city searches for signs of God's presence in his daily life, learning that God can be seen in kindness, patience, and love shown by the people around him.
  • Why this book is challenging: It encourages children to make abstract connections between everyday actions and the presence of God.
  • Why we recommend this book: It teaches children to see and appreciate the divine in everyday life and interactions.
  • Perfect for: Curious youngsters who are starting to form their own questions about where and how God manifests in the world.

• God's Very Good Idea by Trillia Newbell, illustrated by Catalina Echeverri
  • Genre(s): Christian, Diversity
  • Synopsis: This book showcases the diversity of God's creation, focusing on how people from all backgrounds and abilities reflect God's image and are part of His good plan.
  • Why this book is challenging: It introduces complex concepts of diversity and inclusion from a biblical perspective.
  • Why we recommend this book: It promotes understanding and appreciation of diversity, teaching children about equality and love for all.
  • Perfect for: Young readers learning about cultural, racial, and ability differences in a faith-based context.

• Found: Psalm 23 by Sally Lloyd-Jones, illustrated by Jago
  • Genre(s): Christian, Bible Stories
  • Synopsis: A paraphrased version of Psalm 23, this book aims to comfort and reassure children of God's eternal love and care, depicted through soothing words and illustrations.
  • Why this book is challenging: The poetic form of the psalms paired with abstract spiritual concepts challenges young minds to grasp deeper meanings.
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides a calming, reassuring message of God's protection and guidance, ideal for bedtime reading.
  • Perfect for: Children needing comfort and those beginning to learn about the depth and beauty of the Bible's psalms.

Exercises to Develop a Good Reading Habit

Introducing little ones to the joys of reading can be a magical journey, especially with Christian books that are tailored to their age group. Here are some engaging exercises that can help 2-year-olds develop good reading habits while enjoying stories that convey valuable lessons.

• Read Together Daily
  • What it is: Set aside a specific time each day to read a Christian book with your child.
  • How it helps: This establishes a routine and makes reading a regular part of your child's life.
  • Tips: Choose a quiet and comfortable spot for reading sessions to make this a cozy, bonding activity.

• Interactive Storytelling
  • What it is: Use voices, facial expressions, and gestures to bring the story to life as you read.
  • How it helps: Engages your child more deeply and makes the reading experience fun and memorable.
  • Tips: Let your child see your face when you read; this visual connection enhances their enjoyment and attention.

• Point and Name
  • What it is: Point to and name different pictures and words in the book as you read.
  • How it helps: Helps in word recognition and builds vocabulary.
  • Tips: Encourage your child to point to objects and repeat words after you.

• Ask Simple Questions
  • What it is: Pause your reading to ask your child simple questions about the story or pictures.
  • How it helps: Enhances comprehension and encourages them to think about the story.
  • Tips: Keep questions straightforward and related to the story, such as "What color is the ark?" or "Where is the dove?"

• Role Play
  • What it is: After reading, enact scenes from the book with your child, using toys or handmade props.
  • How it helps: Reinforces the story and helps with memory retention.
  • Tips: Keep the role play simple and fun; don't worry about sticking strictly to the script.

• Sing Along
  • What it is: Incorporate Christian songs or rhymes that relate to the story themes.
  • How it helps: Enhances auditory learning and makes connections between the story and the songs.
  • Tips: Use songs that are repetitive and easy to memorize.

• Follow the Finger
  • What it is: Guide your finger along the words as you read them.
  • How it helps: Teaches your child how text is read from left to right and helps with word recognition.
  • Tips: Move slowly and allow your child to try tracing some words with their finger.

By incorporating these simple yet effective exercises into your reading routine, you're not just helping your child develop a love for books, but also instilling valuable life lessons through Christian stories. Happy reading!