A Bible-in-a-Year Plan That Actually Works for Kids
2026-10-16
Reading through the Bible in a year is a wonderful goal. But most plans hand you three chapters of Leviticus on a Tuesday and expect a seven-year-old to be thrilled. A plan for children needs to look different.
One story a day, in order
Children understand the Bible best as one big story: creation, the fall, God's promises, Jesus, the church, and the new creation. Reading it in order helps them see that every story points to Jesus.
Choose the right stories
Not every passage fits every age, and that is okay. A good kids' plan picks the key stories and tells them well, while still letting older children read the real passage straight from the Bible.
Make it short enough to finish
If it takes 20 minutes, it will not last past February. Five to ten minutes a day is a plan a busy family can keep.
Plan for the missed days
Life happens. Sick days, trips, soccer. A good plan has no guilt in it. Pick up at the next day, or take a catch-up day on the weekend.
Mark the milestones
Finishing the Old Testament, starting the New Testament, reaching the halfway point: these are worth celebrating. A small treat or a family prayer of thanks turns a long journey into a happy one.
Read it together
The best plan is the one a parent reads alongside the child. Even when your kids can read on their own, a few minutes of talking about it at dinner makes it stick.
Lantern Trail follows exactly this approach, with 365 days from Genesis to Revelation. You can see the whole thing in our free story library or start your 14-day free trial to begin with Day 1.
Ready to start your family's trail?
One short story a day for ages 2 to 12, with the key verse, a fun game and a question to talk about together. Try it free for 14 days. Cancel any time.