Use the following questions as a guide to identify where your child is in their spiritual walk and in their understanding of what it means to make a Fresh Start.

Tip: Allow time for your child to think and respond. Children may take a few moments to answer a question they have not had to think about previously. If some time has passed and you sense they are struggling to put their thoughts into words, rephrase your question and see if that helps.

What do you think sin is? Why is it a big deal?
Sin is anything that we think, say or do that doesn’t please God. It makes him unhappy. All of us have sinned. And that’s what separates us from God. Our hearts are no longer clean because of sin. God is perfect and his kingdom is perfect. Only those with clean hearts are welcome to be part of his kingdom. On our own, we can’t make our hearts clean. But God loves us so much and wants us to be with him! That’s why he sent Jesus. (Romans 3:23, Romans 6:23)

Do you know who Jesus is?
Jesus is God’s Son. He came to earth and was different from any other person. He was perfect and never sinned.

What has Jesus done for us?
Jesus took our punishment when he died on the cross so that all the wrong things that we have done can be forgiven. Guess what? Jesus became alive again! Our hearts can now be made clean! (Romans 5:8, Romans 6:23, Acts 13:30,31)

How do we become a Christian? How can my heart be made clean?

We can tell God that we know we have sinned and ask him to forgive us. We believe that Jesus died on the cross to be punished instead of us, then invite him to make our hearts clean so that we can become his friend and a child of God. (1 John 1:9, John 1:12, John 3:16)

If your child has answered the previous questions and already made a Fresh Start in Kids Life, skip to Step 3 to celebrate with them!

If your child is ready to make a Fresh Start right now, and you feel that they understand the gospel message and what it means to make a Fresh Start with God, guide them in this Fresh Start prayer.

Tip: Say the prayer slowly, breaking it into phrases to allow your child time to repeat after each phrase.

God / Thank You for the amazing plan you have for my life. / I believe you sent Your son, Jesus / to die on a cross for me / so I could have forgiveness / and be friends with you. / I ask you to forgive me of my sin / make my heart clean / and show me what is right and wrong. / Help me live my life for you everyday. / In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Get excited and throw an impromptu dance party! This is a BIG DEAL!

Remind your child that you are here for them if they have any questions, and that you would love to continue talking with them about Jesus throughout their week.