10+ Best Christian Books for 3-Year-Olds w/ Exercises (2024)

Are you on the lookout for Christian books for 3-year-olds that blend fun storytelling with foundational values? Finding the right books can be a delightful journey into faith for your little ones. In this blog, we'll explore a variety of Christian books perfect for toddlers, each crafted to captivate their imagination while instilling spiritual growth. Keep reading to discover our handpicked selections that are sure to be a hit with your young reader!

Fun Christian Books for 3-Year-Olds

• God Gave Us You by Lisa Tawn Bergren, illustrated by Laura J. Bryant
  • Genre(s): Christian, Picture Book
  • Synopsis: A charming story about a little polar bear who learns from her parents how she was a gift from God, emphasizing the theme of being wanted and loved.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a heartwarming tale that reinforces the concept of unconditional love from parents and God. The simple and engaging narrative is perfect for young minds.
  • Perfect for: Young children and parents looking for a bedtime story that provides comfort and reassurance.

• The Beginner's Bible: Timeless Children’s Stories by Zondervan
  • Genre(s): Christian, Bible Stories
  • Synopsis: This book is a collection of Bible stories, from Genesis to Revelation, retold in a simple and engaging way for young children.
  • Why we recommend this book: It introduces major biblical stories in an accessible and colorful format, making it an excellent first Bible for children.
  • Perfect for: Toddlers beginning to explore their faith and parents who wish to introduce Bible stories at an early age.

• If Jesus Lived Inside My Heart by Jill Roman Lord, illustrated by Amy Wummer
  • Genre(s): Christian, Rhyming
  • Synopsis: A rhyming book that explores the idea of Jesus living inside a child's heart and how this influences kindness and compassion towards others.
  • Why we recommend this book: The rhyming verses make it fun to read aloud, and it effectively communicates the values of empathy and love.
  • Perfect for: Young children learning about Jesus and the importance of being kind and loving in everyday life.

• When God Made You by Matthew Paul Turner, illustrated by David Catrow
  • Genre(s): Christian, Inspirational
  • Synopsis: This book celebrates the individuality of each child, emphasizing that God created each person with unique talents and a purpose.
  • Why we recommend this book: It’s a vibrant and poetic read that encourages children to embrace their uniqueness and understand their value in the world.
  • Perfect for: Children and parents who enjoy lively illustrations and messages about self-worth and individuality.

• Prayers for Children by Eloise Wilkin
  • Genre(s): Christian, Prayer Book
  • Synopsis: A collection of simple prayers that address daily blessings and concerns of young children, accompanied by soothing illustrations.
  • Why we recommend this book: It helps instill a habit of prayer and reflection in young children, offering them words to express gratitude and seek comfort.
  • Perfect for: Young readers beginning to learn about prayer and families seeking to incorporate spiritual growth into daily routines.

Educational Christian Books for 3-Year-Olds

• Found: Psalm 23 by Sally Lloyd-Jones, illustrated by Jago
  • Genre(s): Christian, Picture Book
  • Synopsis: This book is a child-friendly version of Psalm 23 from the Bible, rephrased to be easily understood and comforting to young children.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Religious education, comprehension of biblical texts, emotional comfort
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a gentle introduction to a beloved Psalm, making it approachable and meaningful for little ones.
  • Perfect for: Young children being introduced to the Bible and families seeking comforting spiritual readings.

• God Made All of Me: A Book to Help Children Protect Their Bodies by Justin S. Holcomb and Lindsey A. Holcomb, illustrated by Trish Mahoney
  • Genre(s): Christian, Educational
  • Synopsis: A book designed to help children understand that their bodies are gifts from God and that they have the right to say no to inappropriate touches.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Body awareness, understanding of personal boundaries, safety
  • Why we recommend this book: It addresses a sensitive subject in a straightforward and reassuring manner, empowering children and giving them a voice.
  • Perfect for: Parents and guardians looking to discuss personal safety and respect with their children.

• Maybe God Is Like That Too by Jennifer Grant, illustrated by Benjamin Schipper
  • Genre(s): Christian, Inspirational
  • Synopsis: A young boy living in the city wonders where God is in his daily life and learns to see signs of God's presence in acts of kindness, the beauty of nature, and the love of family.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Awareness of spirituality in everyday life, recognition of kindness and love
  • Why we recommend this book: It encourages children to find and recognize the divine in all aspects of their lives, fostering a sense of gratitude and wonder.
  • Perfect for: Children curious about God and families who want to discuss seeing God in everyday moments.

• The Moon Is Always Round by Jonathan Gibson, illustrated by Joe Hox
  • Genre(s): Christian, Picture Book
  • Synopsis: A father explains to his son during a difficult family time that just like the moon's shape is always round, even when parts are hidden, God’s goodness is always present, even in hard times.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Understanding of abstract concepts, emotional resilience
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides a comforting metaphor for children to grasp the concept of God’s unchanging nature, even in adversity.
  • Perfect for: Families going through tough times and children needing reassurance of God's constant presence.

• God's Very Good Idea by Trillia Newbell, illustrated by Catalina Echeverri
  • Genre(s): Christian, Diversity
  • Synopsis: This book celebrates God's creation of diversity, highlighting how everyone is made in God's image and loved by Him, regardless of appearance or abilities.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Understanding diversity, inclusivity, self-esteem
  • Why we recommend this book: It promotes the celebration of diversity and the understanding that every individual is unique and valuable.
  • Perfect for: Children learning about cultural and personal differences and families who value teaching inclusivity and respect.

Challenging Christian Books for 3-Year-Olds

• The Tale of Three Trees by Angela Elwell Hunt, illustrated by Tim Jonke
  • Genre(s): Christian, Folklore
  • Synopsis: A traditional folktale about three trees on a mountain who dream of what they want to become, only to discover that God has different, more glorious plans for them.
  • Why this book is challenging: The narrative structure and underlying messages about destiny and divine purpose are more complex than typical stories for this age.
  • Why we recommend this book: It teaches children about hope, dreams, and the importance of having faith in greater plans, all through a beautifully illustrated and engaging story.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who enjoy stories with moral lessons and parents seeking to instill a sense of faith and purpose.

• The Garden, the Curtain and the Cross by Carl Laferton, illustrated by Catalina Echeverri
  • Genre(s): Christian, Biblical
  • Synopsis: This book takes children through the story of the Bible from the Garden of Eden to Jesus' resurrection, focusing on the theme of God's love and the removal of barriers between God and humanity.
  • Why this book is challenging: It covers a broad sweep of biblical theology that is simplified but still requires conceptual understanding beyond simple narratives.
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides a foundational understanding of a significant biblical theme in a way that is accessible and visually engaging for young children.
  • Perfect for: Children who are ready for a deeper understanding of the Bible and families who wish to discuss theological concepts at home.

• The Biggest Story by Kevin DeYoung, illustrated by Don Clark
  • Genre(s): Christian, Biblical Narrative
  • Synopsis: This book traces the storyline of the Bible from the Garden of Eden to the New Jerusalem, emphasizing God's overarching plan of redemption throughout history.
  • Why this book is challenging: The abstract and artistic illustrations paired with a narrative that spans the entire Bible make this a complex read for young minds.
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a sweeping overview of biblical history with captivating illustrations that will keep children engaged while they learn about God's redemptive plan.
  • Perfect for: Advanced young readers interested in understanding the big picture of the Bible and families looking for a comprehensive biblical storybook.

• When I Pray for You by Matthew Paul Turner, illustrated by Kimberley Barnes
  • Genre(s): Christian, Prayer
  • Synopsis: A touching narrative that explores the prayers a parent might say for their child, covering themes of adventure, discovery, and the trials of growing up.
  • Why this book is challenging: The book’s lyrical prose and deep emotional content provide a more profound reading experience that goes beyond simple storytelling.
  • Why we recommend this book: It beautifully illustrates the power of prayer and parental love, making it an excellent tool for parents to express their wishes and blessings for their children.
  • Perfect for: Families who cherish spiritual growth and the bond of praying for each other.

• Don't Forget to Remember by Ellie Holcomb, illustrated by Kayla Harren
  • Genre(s): Christian, Inspirational
  • Synopsis: This book reminds children of the simple joys and beautiful creations in the world that reflect God’s love and reminders of His presence in everyday life.
  • Why this book is challenging: The poetic language and deeper look at finding God in the ordinary require a thoughtful engagement that is more demanding than typical children's books.
  • Why we recommend this book: It encourages mindfulness and gratitude for God's gifts in a way that is relatable and uplifting for young readers.
  • Perfect for: Children who enjoy nature and exploring the world around them, and families who value teaching awareness of God's presence in daily life.

Exercises to Develop a Good Reading Habit

Introducing young children to the joy of reading, especially through Christian books, can be a wonderful journey of spiritual and intellectual growth. Here are a few engaging exercises that can help 3-year-olds develop good reading habits while exploring Christian themes:

• Picture Story Match
  • What it is: Pairing pictures from the story with corresponding text.
  • How it helps: Enhances comprehension and helps children connect visuals with words.
  • Tips: Use colorful pictures and simple, short sentences from the book to make matching easier and more fun.

• Story Sequencing
  • What it is: Arranging story events in the correct order.
  • How it helps: Boosts understanding of the narrative structure and reinforces memory.
  • Tips: Start with stories that have clear, simple plots and use large picture cards as visual aids.

• Read Aloud Sessions
  • What it is: Reading stories aloud to your child.
  • How it helps: Improves listening skills and introduces new vocabulary in a fun way.
  • Tips: Change your tone and pitch to depict different characters, making the session more interactive and engaging.

• Role Play
  • What it is: Acting out stories or scenes from the book.
  • How it helps: Encourages imagination and deeper connection with the story.
  • Tips: Use simple props or costumes to make the role play more exciting and memorable.

• Interactive Reading
  • What it is: Asking questions and discussing the story during reading.
  • How it helps: Promotes critical thinking and enhances understanding.
  • Tips: Ask open-ended questions like "What do you think will happen next?" to encourage predictions and discussions.

These exercises are not only fun but also foundational, setting the stage for a lifelong love of reading. Remember, the key is to keep the activities light and enjoyable, ensuring that reading time is always looked forward to with anticipation and delight. Happy reading!