How to Teach the Book of Proverbs to Children

The book of Proverbs in the Bible gives practical advice for daily living. Written primarily by King Solomon, Proverbs admonishes people to seek and apply God’s wisdom to every aspect of life. Sections of Proverbs are written as a father instructing his child about living God’s way. These sections contain practical, pertinent advice about issues children face as they move toward adulthood. You can use these practical lessons contained in Proverbs as a Bible study for children.

Read Proverbs 1, verses 1 through 7 to the children.

Explain that Solomon was named in the Bible as the wisest man of all time. Teach that Solomon was young when he became king over Israel. Realizing the immense responsibilities of a king, he asked God for the wisdom to lead Israel. The fact that Solomon requested wisdom instead of fame and fortune pleased God. As a result, God made Solomon wiser than any other person.

Describe the purpose of the book of Proverbs as outlined in verses 2 through 4, placing the emphasis on verse 4. Teach that Proverbs gives instructions for how to make the right decisions in life based on God’s laws. Explain that Proverbs equips immature and inexperienced youth with the knowledge and sense to live a godly life.

Explain the differences between the wise and foolish as described in verses 5 through 7. Teach that a wise person receives God’s teaching and increases in his knowledge and understanding of God’s ways. Reverence for God and his ways is the starting point for a true knowledge of God. Describe the foolish as those who reject God’s teachings.

Read Proverbs 4, verses 1 through 6. Explain that Solomon is addressing his son.

Explain the admonition given in verses 1 and 2. Elaborate on the truth of the Proverbs and the Bible as a whole and the importance of not straying from its teachings. Teach the importance of embracing moral instructions given by parents. For example, use the Ten Commandments from Exodus 20 to stress the importance of being truthful, not stealing and honoring parents. Give students real-life examples of applying God’s commands, such as examples of not stealing other students' belongings, not cheating on school work, not downloading songs illegally, always telling the truth and honoring parents' wishes even when they are not around.

Describe from verse 3 how Solomon was taught God’s commandments by his father King David. Teach that God’s Word is often passed down from generation to generation.

Explain the teaching of verse 4, that it is important to hold on tightly to godly, parental instruction and that heeding a parent’s instruction can be life saving.

Teach the importance of acquiring wisdom and understanding as stated in verse 5. Tell the children that one of the best means of acquiring wisdom and understanding is by listening to the godly counsel of their parents.

Explain that verse 6 means that receiving God’s wisdom and understanding saves them from the trouble that comes from disobeying God. For example, by being good students in school they can avoid detention.