Catechism and encouragement

The Illustrated Westminster Shorter Catechism

Illustrated by Paul Cox
(P&R 2023)

This volume pairs modern English with simple pictures to present the Westminster Shorter Catechism. Cox’s illustrations appear alongside each question, offering visual cues that will help engage younger children with the material. Unlike some catechism resources, this one does not offer additional exposition and commentary about the concepts expressed in each question. But it does include suggested Scripture references for each question that families can look up and read together. Whether used as a child’s first introduction to the ­catechism or a tool for helping older children memorize the questions, this version would serve as a helpful resource in the home library. Ages 5-12

When I Go to Church, I Belong

Elrena Evans
(InterVarsity Press 2023)

Evans’ experiences as the mother of a special-­needs child inspired this picture book that strives to help children see how church should be a place where all people feel welcome. Through the eyes of six children, the story offers a vision for the ways churches can ­lovingly minister to these little ones. Evans encourages parents to use the book as a way to start deeper conversations with their children about including others with disabilities and differences. The book’s message also speaks to adults as it shows the different ways churches can build an environment that is welcoming and safe for families with special-needs children. Ages 4-8

Something Scary Happened

Darby A. Strickland
(New Growth Press 2023)

Counselor and trauma expert Darby Strickland wrote this book to serve as a tool for helping children who have experienced trauma. In the story, Miles is a happy little lamb who loves chasing dandelions and playing soccer until one day something scary happens (the text doesn’t specify what). Although Miles tries to forget what happened, he can’t, and he feels terrible, “like he was all alone in a deep, dark valley.” But then the good Shepherd comes and comforts Miles, reminding him that “His love is stronger than any scary thing.” The endnotes offer care­givers a brief primer on how to help children process trauma, along with Scripture verses to comfort and encourage. Ages 4-8

Give God Your Worries

Sally Michael
(New Growth Press 2023)

This book is part of the new Bible Verses to Remember series that seeks to help children memorize God’s Word and apply it to their lives. Michael begins by reminding children of how God cares for the birds before segueing to discuss God’s care over His children. She then helps children understand what anxiety is and how they can overcome it by giving all their worries to God as instructed in 1 Peter 5:7. Illustrator Sengsavane Chounramany complements the text with cheerful pictures, and the conclusion offers a note to parents as well as tips for helping ­children memorize Scripture. Ages 5-9