If our goal is to cultivate a culture of faith in our homes, it’s important to weave faith-building into every area of our family interaction. This is a habit that when practiced, will become like second nature, empowering us to engage our children in conversations that matter when we least expect it.

Playtime can be a missed opportunity for parents. So focused on the many things we have to do, any given day, we often miss out on the benefits that can come with play for our children.

When we connect with our children on their territory we send the message that what matters to them matters to us. And in time, what matters to us will matter more to them. 

Experts say that 20 minutes of connected play helps kids learn to play better on their own. When we use playtime to bond with our kids, they will build the skills they need to play independently which may just give you a few minutes to yourself every now and then, without relying on screens!

Create faith-building moments in the midst of ordinary playtime with these conversation starters.

7 Faith-Building Playtime Conversation Starters

1. Legos/Building Blocks

SHARE: It’s so fun to build with Legos + blocks. The Bible talks a lot about building. It reminds us to build on a firm foundation.

ASK: What do you think it means to build our lives on a strong foundation? Why is it important?

READ: Matthew 7:24-27

2. Dolls/Barbies

SHARE: I love pretending with these dolls. Know what I love even more? Being your mom for real. (Share 2-3 things you love about your child.)

ASK: What is your favorite thing about the way God made you?

READ: Psalm 139:14

3. Cars/Trucks

SHARE: It’s so helpful to have vehicles to get us from one place to another. I am thankful for our car because it gets us to our destination safely.

ASK: Do you know who also helps us get to where we are going safely?

READ: Proverbs 3:5-6

4. Stuffed Animals

SHARE: I love watching you care for your special animal friends. You are so kind and tenderhearted.

ASK: Why do you think it’s important to be kind and gentle with our friends?

READ: Ephesians 4:32

5. Dress Up

SHARE: It’s so fun to dress up and pretend to be a _________! It’s exciting to dream about all that we can be someday.

ASK: What do you want to be when you grow up?

READ: Jeremiah 29:11

6. Playing House

SHARE: You are going to make a great mommy/daddy someday! It’s so special to be a part of a family. And it’s even more wonderful to be a part of God’s family!

ASK: How does it feel to know you are a child of God?

READ: 1 John 3:1

7. Crafts/Coloring

SHARE: You are so creative! I love the way you ____________. You know who else is a creator? God! He made the whole world out of nothing. Our creativity comes from him, the ultimate Creator!

ASK: What are your favorite things about God’s creation?

READ: Ephesians 2:10 (NLT)

We hope these simple prompts help transform your family playtime into beautiful moments of connection.

What are your favorite things to play with your kids? What conversation starters could you add to this list?