Kid’s Albums Aren’t Always Just for Kids

I often wonder how to define the age range for our kid’s albums. For “To Be Like Jesus,” our target age was 6-10 year olds. But on the CD we’ve described the age range as “6 and up.” I recently received an email from Abby, a mom I know, that reminded me why we shouldn’t put a cap on the upper age limit.

“To Be Like Jesus” has been an amazing means of encouragement and enjoyment not just for Jack and Charli (6 & 4), but especially for me. Every song has brought tears to my eyes as I’ve been affected by the truths from scripture. The lyrics are extrememly practical and helpful for growing in and understanding the fruit of the Spirit in our daily lives.

My children each have “their song” according to the area that God wants them to grow in. Charli’s is “Gentle Like Jesus” and Jack’s is “Fill Me With Joy”. Mine is “Jesus, You’re My Hope”. We’ve referred to these songs frequently as we’ve sinned or been tempted daily.

Thank you for taking the time to invest in the songwriters who have brought these songs to God’s people in order to bring glory to their Lord.

You’re welcome. It brings me joy to hear how one mom is using these songs to impart biblical understanding to her kids, and to be reminded that God can use even kid’s songs to work his truth into our hearts.

And in case you’re wondering, here are the words to the song that Abby says is “her” song right now.

Jesus, You were tempted
In every way like I am
But You never gave in -No!
You looked to Your Father
And the Spirit’s power
For Your strength and self-control

Jesus, You’re my hope
You can help me grow
I don’t want to sin
I don’t want to give in -No!
Jesus, give me self-control

Right at the beginning
When I feel like sinning
Help me look to You alone
Help me to obey, Lord
Follow in Your way, Lord
Jesus, give me self-control
“Jesus, You’re My Hope,” words and music by Mark Altrogge.

“Truly, I say to you, unless you turn and become like children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven.” (Mt. 18:3)

,

6 Responses to Kid’s Albums Aren’t Always Just for Kids

  1. Michael Seifert July 9, 2009 at 11:16 PM #

    Amen to that! timeless truths on a children’s music album applies to everyone. I remember working with children’s ministries for a celebration conference and one song that described Christ affected me. “He’s the Alpha and Omega. The beginning and the end, but most of all he’s my best friend.”

  2. Kyle July 10, 2009 at 9:12 AM #

    I heartily agree. Since the songs are intended for kids, often the direct, cut-to-the-chase style of the lyrics has spoken to my heart in impactful ways. I listen to the CD even when my kids aren’t around.

    I would also argue that we shouldn’t necessarily put a cap on the lower age limit, either. My daughter is 4, and sings along joyfully. Even if she doesn’t understand the depth of all the words she’s singing, Gospel seeds are being planted in her mind and heart over and over.

    We’ve gotten a lot of mileage out of “Awesome God,” and have enjoyed it greatly – but I think you guys might have outdone yourselves with “To Be Like Jesus.”

  3. Lisa July 10, 2009 at 2:31 PM #

    I agree as well. I LOVE “Awesome God” and the “Seeds” scripture memory songs and can’t wait to hear this new album. I was wondering though, Bob…. why IS there a lower age “limit”? When I purchased “Awesome God” for my nieces and nephews, I wondered whether there might be content unsuitable for them, as they’re younger than 6 or 7. But that seemed highly unlikely! :) Having come to trust you SG guys, I know that you’re intentional and wise about these things, so I’m curious what your rationale is in arriving at these numbers. I remember your saying once something about music you’d let your older kids listen to but not your youngers ones (hope I’m remembering that accurately – I think it was part of “In the World But Not Of the World) but I don’t remember the reason you gave for that. I greatly respect your opinion on these matters; please share your thoughts on this! Thanks!

  4. Ben July 12, 2009 at 10:34 PM #

    Just got the CD in the mail, the song “give me self control” is awesome. I can’t stop listening to it, now if I can just get my 2 year old to sing it!

  5. Mikes Sumondong July 14, 2009 at 12:28 AM #

    Very true. very true… God bless the album!

  6. Jimmy Amoureuse July 27, 2009 at 8:03 AM #

    I listen my kids music too. that kiddie songs make you positive. there are should be age ranges for such albums

Leave a Reply

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.

Powered by WordPress. Designed by Woo Themes