As Christian parents, we want more than good behaviour—we want our kids to know Jesus, walk in truth, and grow in faith. But in the busyness of everyday life, discipleship can sometimes feel like just another thing on the to-do list.

Here’s the good news: God doesn’t ask us to be perfect—He invites us to be faithful.

Whether your family thrives on structure or feels like beautiful chaos, here are five ways to disciple your children in a way that’s simple, intentional, and full of grace. I’ve included gentle references from the books and tools I created for this very purpose—because I know the struggle too.

1. Start Small—and Keep It Simple

A 45-minute devotion isn’t necessary to make an impact. Some of the most powerful discipleship moments come in 5-minute pockets: before school, during bedtime, or over a snack.

That’s why in I Am: Discovering My Identity in Christ, I included a 30-day affirmation tracker—so kids can build a daily rhythm of truth, even if they’re just repeating one sentence:

“I am loved by God.”
“I am God’s beloved child.”

“Choose a special time each day… This could be in the morning, after school, or before bedtime.” – I Am

These tiny seeds of truth, planted daily, take deep root over time.

2. You Don’t Have to Be a Bible Expert

Many of us feel unequipped or inadequate when it comes to spiritual leadership at home. But discipleship isn’t about having all the answers—it’s about walking alongside your child and learning together.

In Oops! I Prayed for Ice Cream, I share a playful story that reminds kids (and grown-ups) that prayer isn’t about perfection:

“This story helps children see that prayer isn’t about saying all the right words—it’s about talking to God from the heart.”

If you can talk with your child, you can disciple them. It really is that simple.

3. Speak Truth to Combat the World’s Noise

Children are constantly told who they should be, what they should look like, and where their worth comes from. Discipleship is our chance to speak a better word.

Words like:

• “I am a new creation in Christ.”
• “I am brave and strong.”
• “I am chosen with purpose.”

These aren’t just affirmations—they’re biblical truths straight from God’s Word, found throughout I Am, God’s Big Rescue, and I Am God’s Masterpiece. They help your child see themselves the way God sees them, which matters more than ever today.

4. Use Gentle Tools That Fit Real Life

Sometimes, life is too full to craft your own devotional or find the perfect Bible story. That’s why I created easy-to-use resources—books, printables, and free downloads—to support discipleship without adding pressure.

Whether it’s a rhyme about God’s love, a visual guide to the Lord’s Prayer, or Scripture-based affirmation cards, these tools are meant to feel like a helping hand, not homework.

You can explore them anytime at:
👉 DanaOnye.com/shop

No guilt. Just grace and support for the journey.

5. Let Wonder and Joy Lead the Way

Sometimes we overthink discipleship—when really, kids are drawn to stories, laughter, and moments of connection.

In God’s Big Rescue, I tell the story of Jesus from Creation to Resurrection in rhyming verse. In Oops! I Prayed for Ice Cream, we explore the honesty and humour of childhood prayers. These are books meant to bring smiles and spark questions—not to force anything.

“Silly or serious, God listens with love—always.” – Oops! I Prayed for Ice Cream

Joy makes room for truth to settle deep.

Final Encouragement

You’re not behind. You’re not failing. If you’re reading this, it means you care deeply about your child’s faith—and that is where discipleship begins.

Whether you have one minute or ten, whether your child is full of questions or barely interested, God will use what you offer. His grace is bigger than our gaps.

So take the pressure off. Breathe. Open a book. Say one verse aloud. Pray one sentence.
That’s discipleship, too.

Looking for gentle tools to support your family’s faith journey?
Explore Christian books, devotionals, and free printables at DanaOnye.com—designed to help you disciple with joy, not overwhelm.