1. Remember that some questions aren't your job to answer.
Example: Where do babies come from?
haha Ok, don't freak out. That's not one we get often, but I can guarantee that you will be asked equally awkward and puzzling questions. How do we answer these?
Well I'll tell you,
you don't...
It's not your job. If someone wants to know if their uncle who cussed, drank, and never became a Christian went to Heaven...welllllll...it's best to refer them to good ole mom and dad. Those things are a can of worms that you just don't want to open. The best thing you can do is say, "I don't know. Lets hold that question till after church so you can ask your parents." Don't be afraid to mention these sorts of questions to the parents also. It will help everyone, and save a lot of awkwardness from ensuing later.
2. If you really don't know the answer to a question just don't answer.
Kid's will often times think of the most bizarre, yet relevant, questions. The downfall is, sometimes you really won't have an answer. Be it because you haven't studied the topic, or there is no definitive Bible answer. I've heard everything from,
"Did Adam and Eve have bellybuttons?"
To
"Did my dog go to heaven? That's what my mom said."
I've even heard,
"Will we get wings in Heaven?"
"What does Jesus look like?"
"Does God have a wife?"
"Where did God come from?"
These questions are difficult at best. Some you can figure out by further study. In that case just reply with something like, "I'm not sure. I'll study more on that, and let you know if I find anything." Now here is the tricky part...you do actually have to study the topic. Because trust me, they will remember and ask you about it.
Sometimes your really have no Bible answer for the question. It's just unanswerable. So, don't be afraid to say I don't know. You don't have to make up some spiritual answer. Just say, "I really don't know. The Bible doesn't say anything about that. So, I can't give you a good answer. I guess we'll find out when we get to Heaven." Generally, that will be a good enough answer for kids.
Lastly...and probably most tricky...
3. "Well, my (insert family figure here...generally mom or dad) says (whatever is opposite of what you're teaching).
This is such fragile territory. Just because we all go to the same church doesn't mean we believe exactly the same thing. There are differing opinions on several things. No matter who is right or wrong it's not your job as a teacher to undermine what a child's parent wants them to believe. Now, if a child asks you a question point blank don't lie, but if you can avoid the topic or change the subject go for it. However, if it ruins your entire lesson, and the child still protests just says something to the effect of, "Everyone believes a little differently." Or, "I've never really heard it like that, I'll have to do some studying on it." It's important not to undermine the parent or alienate the child. Like I said, this is a very sensitive area. If you can avoid it try to. If not, then handle it with care. But most importantly be honest with your class if it's something you and your church believe.
Well, I hope this helps! I hope it answers your and your classes questions. Please leave any "Tough Question" suggestions in the comments below. I'd love to hear them...trust me I need advice just as much as every other teacher reading this blog. We're all in this together right? :)
God Bless,
Faith
