Tag Archives: rhyming books

Tony Funderburk Posted on by

If you’re a Christian, and you have kids or grandkids, or had kids or grandkids at one time, maybe you’ve considered Christian rhyming books for them.

By the way, Christian rhyming books aren’t actual Christians.

Because inanimate objects can’t be Christians. And I added that in there because there are some people who have some sort of aversion or opposition to using the word Christian as part of a label. So, I just wanted to clear that up for ya.

Anyway…

I read some information about why there does seem to be a significant portion of the Christian community who enjoys or likes Christian rhyming books. And here’s what the article said are reasons for that:

  • “Educational Value: Rhyming books can help with language development, including phonemic awareness, which is crucial for early reading skills. They make learning fun and engaging, which is particularly appealing to young children.
  • Moral and Spiritual Lessons: Books that rhyme can convey Christian values, Bible stories, or moral lessons in a memorable way. The rhythm and repetition can aid in memorization of key messages or prayers.
  • Entertainment: Rhymes are naturally appealing to children due to their musical quality. This can make reading time more enjoyable, encouraging a love for reading from a young age.
  • Cultural and Religious Identity: For Christian families, books that combine faith-based content with rhyming can serve as a tool for passing down religious traditions and teachings in an accessible format for young minds.

Some popular examples might include Bibles for children that:

  • Use rhyme to simplify and explain scriptures.
  • Include Christian morals like sharing, kindness, or the story of Jesus, told through rhymes
  • Share prayers written in poetic form

However, preferences can vary widely based on individual family values, the specific denomination of Christianity they follow, and their approach to child-rearing. Some might prioritize books with explicit religious content. And others might be more focused on general moral lessons. The kind that align with Christian values but aren’t overtly religious.”

I’ve never written any Christian rhyming books to help with language development or phonemic awareness. But I DO hope they are fun and engaging and that they convey Christian values, Bible stories, or moral lessons in a memorable way. Parents who’ve bought have said they appreciate the Christian messages I’ve shared and that their kids enjoyed them. So I’ll take them at their word.

And because that feedback I’ll keep writing and publishing Christian rhyming books that say things like:

Spiral through the galaxies
And circle through the stars.
Rocket to your earthly home
Past Venus and past Mars.
Make a landing, safe and sound,
And look up at the skies
And know, for sure, God made it all.
You’ll know ’cause you’ve got eyes. © 2021

Tony Funderburk TRUTH subscribe button

Daily Devotional

Stay tuned,

Tony Funderburk signature logo

Tony Funderburk Posted on by

Rhyming books?! Are you kidding me? Who in their right mind would fall for such a thing? Because that’s all so last century. These days, kids want rap. Not stuff that actually rhymes.

And just saying “rhyming books” sounds so lame. Right?

I mean, who still wants some goofy cat in the hat or green eggs and ham from Sam I am? And if Jack and Jill go up that hill one more time for a pail a water, I’ll have to cry “Foul!” After water runs downhill. Why not wait for the water to come down. Stop going up there I say!

But who am I that I should have an opinion on it? I mean, besides a guy who’s written thousands of rhymes. And even published some actual rhyming books. Put those minor details out of your mind. And read some bullet points from an article that shared the benefits of rhyming in books for kids.

Here’s the list they shared:

  • Memorable and Catchy: Rhymes are easy to remember. The rhythmic patterns help children memorize words and phrases
  • Language Development: Exposure to rhyming sounds helps phonological awareness, which is crucial for learning to read. Kids pick up on sounds, patterns, and can predict upcoming words, for better language skills.
  • Enjoyment and Engagement: The playful nature of rhymes often leads to laughter and joy. Children are naturally drawn to the musical quality of rhyming text, which keeps them engaged longer.
  • Rhythmic Flow: The cadence of rhyming books mimics lullabies or songs for a rhythmic flow that can calm children, especially during bedtime or quiet times.
  • Improves Listening Skills: Rhymes require children to listen closely to catch the rhyme. And that can sharpen their listening skills.
  • Encourages Participation: Rhyming books often invite children to join in. And that can foster active participation in the reading process which can boost confidence in early readers.
  • Cultural and Traditional Value: Many traditional tales and nursery rhymes come in rhyming forms, And that can be a fun and accessible way to pass down folklore and traditions and connect children to their cultural heritage.

Take a second and join the growing body of believers who’ve already signed up for the Tony’s Rhyme and Reason Daily Devotional. When you do, I’ll send you some music and a rhyming book for kids right away. Then, I’ll send you daily flashes of light from the faith, hope, and the power of God’s love.

Stay tuned…

Tony Funderburk signature logo