You’ve seen it. A child distracted by sunlight through the window, or fascinated by a bug on the sidewalk. What if those moments weren’t interruptions but invitations?
Sometimes the best formation happens when we connect those tiny moments of wonder to God, or make space for those connections. When we help children see God in the everyday things that capture their attention, they learn to see him there on their own.
Inviting Moments of Wonder
For those days when wonder and awe don’t show up naturally in our church classes, we can invite those moments. We can’t force wonder, but we can create space and time for it.
A “Wonder & Wow” moment is an intentional pause to look for what God has done and is doing. It’s a moment to ask, “When did I say ‘wow’ or pause in awe this week?” And to reflect on what God was doing in that moment.
Wonder Throughout Early Childhood
Here are a few ideas of how to invite wonder with different ages:
Toddlers (1–3)
- Children are already drawn to new and interesting things, especially sensory experiences.
- Adults can observe and give language to what toddlers are noticing, helping them connect it to God.
- It might sound like, “Oh, look at that colorful flower. God loves to make beautiful things for us to enjoy.”
- Remember not to overexplain or belittle the wonder.
Preschool (3–5)
- Preschoolers are expert wonderers. They are comfortable with the unknown.
- Our role is to join them in the wonder, or at the very least not rush their wonder.
- It sounds like, “Can you show me what you are looking at?” or not saying a word, but watching what they are watching.
- Remember, wonder doesn’t always need words.
Elementary (6–8)
- Young elementary-aged kids are ready to deepen their wonder with understanding.
- We are there to scaffold their wonder with God’s truth, as they are curious.
- This might sound like, “How do you think God did that?”
- Try to remember not to explain away the wonder, but to deepen it.
Posture of Wonder
As you consider including “Wonder & Wows” in your own ministry, don’t feel tied to the specifics. Wonder is a posture of worship that reminds us who God is and what he can do. It doesn’t need to be a formal part of your Sunday morning. Maybe you ask students about their “wows” as you welcome them, or take two minutes of group wondering before you close in prayer. How you do it isn’t as important as nurturing wonder.
Wonder will also come more naturally to your kids as it becomes a regular practice for you. Practice pausing and looking for your own “wows” and reflecting on your days through the lens of wonder each day. Be reminded to embrace the child-like wonder you were created to experience.
And if you want more guidance on incorporating Wonder & Wows into your children’s ministry, download this free resource.