Lydia got her first “real” Bible the Christmas she was in Kindergarten. It’s a purple leather Adventure Bible in the New International Reader’s Version.
It’s not so much the purple (if you can believe that!) or the “Adventure” part that I like. It’s the version–the New International Reader’s Version. This is a version based on the highly trusted and popular NIV. The NIV is on an 8th grade reading level while the NIrV is on a 3rd grade reading level (actually 2nd year, 9th month).
Imagine handing your 2nd grader an 8th grade book and expecting her to read and enjoy it. Not gonna happen! So, this version is a great starter Bible. It’s an actual translation from a trusted source and an easy read.
Here’s a good example. Look at this verse from the NIV:
For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord. Romans 6:23
Anyone use the word “wages” with your kids? I didn’t think so. Here’s the NIrV:
When you sin, the pay you get is death. But God gives you the gift of eternal life because of what Christ Jesus our Lord has done. Romans 3:23
See what they did? Cleared up the semi-archaic words and shortened the long run-on sentences to keep little minds on track.
There are many many kids’ translations of the Bible and if want more info, check out this really helpful guide from Mardel. It explains the grade-level and the translation philosophy of several version.
The main thing is, when your kiddo is old enough to actually read the Bible, get them a Bible on on their grade-level. You want the Bible to be something they enjoy, not fight or struggle to read. Let them get to know Jesus’ words in words they understand!
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