When I first started leading Bible studies with my wife many years ago (8th grade girls), I thought I needed a theology degree, a leather-bound concordance, and the ability to quote Leviticus in my sleep. Turns out, all I really needed was a juice box, a glue stick, and a few life lessons from my preschool days.

Here are five preschool principles that have become my secret sauce for leading Bible studies with joy, clarity, and a whole lot of grace.

1. Follow the K.I.S.S. Principle (Keep It Simple, Silly)

Preschoolers don’t need a 12-point sermon on the Pauline epistles—they need to know that Jesus loves them, and that’s enough. And honestly? So do most adults.

When I first began teaching, I overcomplicated everything. I’d toss around words like “eschatology” and “sanctification” like I was auditioning for admission to seminary. But then I remembered how my preschool teacher explained forgiveness using a broken crayon and a hug. Simple. Tangible. Heartfelt.

Now, I aim to teach in a way that even my five-year-old self would understand. If Jesus could explain the Kingdom of God using mustard seeds and sheep, I figure I can too.

2. Snacks and Stories Are Sacred

Preschoolers learn best when their hands are sticky and their hearts are full. And let’s be honest—so do grown-ups.

I’ve learned that stories are the glue that holds truth in place. Whether it’s a parable from Scripture or a personal tale about the time I accidentally prayed for “God’s pants,” stories make lessons memorable. And food? It’s the universal love language. Jesus broke bread before He broke down the Scriptures. I follow His lead—with donuts, breakfast quiches, and some fruit. Oh, and coffee!

3. Repetition Isn’t Redundant—It’s Reinforcement

In preschool, we sang “Jesus Loves Me” almost every week. We colored Noah’s Ark until the crayons wore down. And we remembered it.

Adults need repetition too—not because we’re slow, but because we’re distracted. Life is noisy. Truth needs to echo. Not every group member is present each week, so some miss things in between the times they are present. I’ve learned to circle back to the main point like a teacher with a felt board and a mission. If someone walks away remembering just one thing, I want it to be the truth that sticks.

4. Everyone Learns Differently—And That’s a Gift

In preschool, some kids built block towers. Others painted masterpieces. Some just wanted to play with dinosaurs in the corner, or play “family” at the home center. And that was okay.

Bible study is no different. Some people love deep theological dives. Others connect through music, art, or quiet reflection. I’ve learned to mix it up—ask questions, encourage discussion, offer visuals, and create space for different voices. The goal isn’t to impress with knowledge; it’s to invite conversation that is often a precursor to transformation.

5. Wiggles Are Welcome

Preschoolers wiggle. They fidget. They interrupt. They ask “why?” a hundred times. And you know what? That’s part of the learning process.

Adults may not crawl under the table mid-lesson (though I’ve come close), but they bring their own kind of wiggles—doubts, distractions, and spiritual restlessness. I’ve learned to welcome the mess. To leave room for questions. To let the Spirit lead, even if it means veering off the lesson plan.

Sometimes the best moments happen when we stop trying to control the room and start listening to what God is doing in it.

So there you have it: five preschool principles that still preach. Leading a Bible study doesn’t require perfection—it just requires presence, patience, and maybe a few extra napkins.

Next time you’re prepping a lesson, channel your inner preschool teacher. Use crayons if you must. And remember: if it worked for the kids, it just might be perfect for the grown-ups too.

Now, who’s bringing the Goldfish?