Sacred Scripture is at the heart of Christian life. Parents are thus called to foster a love for the Word of God that takes root in the child’s soul. Such reverence for the Word, and the language arts which flow from Biblical interpretation, like reading, writing, and grammar, have marked Christian education for two-thousand years.
Scripture cards are one tiny, actionable way to bring Scripture study to emerging readers and writers. A typical lesson would include reading a passage aloud, allowing for silence, discussing key phrases, copying a verse on an index card, then displaying the card in a place of prayer. Sometimes it’s more effective to do copy work on the next day, rather than doing everything at once. This also gives the rewards of practice and repetition, which is too often overlooked in the fast-paced world of today.
Dyslexic and dysgraphic children can still benefit from scripture cards. A child may choose to illustrate a card that is already typed or written by the parent. The child may also dictate to the parent which verse to scribe. The lesson should not inflict anxiety over handwriting or reading.
Another helpful tool for emerging students is a large-print Bible. (Here is one from Ignatius Press.) There is often ample space to work on a card resting on the page. Placing post-it notes around the verse to copy also reduces the annoyance of losing one’s place in the text.
Index cards are a cheap bulk supply, which makes them ideal for student work. And because they are sturdy, they can be propped up for view or handled multiple times without tearing. Students can store their index cards in a number of ways:
hole punch the corner and thread on a metal ring (similar to a key chain)
buy one of the numerous index card holders at an office supply store and personalize it with stickers, markers, etc.
find a wooden or metal box that can be repurposed from a thrift store, such as a recipe card holder, jewelry box, etc.
There are a few ways to use the completed cards. First, they can be displayed right away in a prominent spot so that parents can point them out during prayer or lessons. Second, they can be chosen during prayer time from a larger collection, which helps parents to see what is speaking to the child’s heart. Third, they can be referenced for Bible memory practice. With such an open-ended and flexible design, families will find many different ways to use them in the life of the home.
Here are a few examples of Scripture cards from students.
First, a pre-printed card on copy paper that was part of a formal lesson. Sometimes it suits the lesson or the student to have the verse already typed. In this case, the student is dyslexic, and chose to express the verse through illustration.
Second, this picture shows a hand-copied verse from an emerging reader and writer on an index card. The concentration and time needed to complete the verse recalls the widow’s mite. The child, who by nature is poor, gives all out of love and obedience.
Unpacking the treasures of Sacred Scripture with our children is a gift! With a little thrift, thoughtfulness, and creativity, families can find many ways to respond to the call of evangelization.