Parent Guide: Talking to Your Child About Baptism

Helping families take the next step in faith together.

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Helping Your Child Take Their Next Step in Faith

Baptism is a big moment—and one that means even more when your child truly understands what it’s all about. This page is here to help you navigate those conversations with confidence, grace, and biblical truth.

Baptism is...

  • A public declaration of a personal decision to follow Jesus
  • A symbol of new life in Christ (Romans 6:4)
  • An outward expression of an inward change
  • A step of obedience after someone chooses to believe

Baptism is Not...

  • What saves us (salvation comes by grace through faith)
  • Just something we do to check a box
  • A decision that should be made just because friends are doing it

When is my child ready?

There’s no perfect age—it’s about understanding and personal conviction.  Here are signs your child might be ready:
  • They’ve expressed a personal belief in Jesus
  • They can explain (in their own words) what baptism means
  • They’re asking questions about salvation and following Jesus
  • They’re not being pressured—it’s their own decision

Still unsure?

That’s okay. We’re here to walk with you. Let your child keep learning and growing—there’s no rush.

How Do I Talk About It?

Here are a few prompts to guide your conversation

What do YOU think baptism means?
Follow-up prompts:

“Where did you learn that?”
“Can you tell me why you think baptism is important?”
“What do you think happens during baptism?”
“Is it just about getting in the water, or is it something more?”

Parent guidance:
Listen for signs that they understand baptism is an outward sign of an inward decision—not just a church event or something “everyone else is doing.” If they’re unsure, that’s okay! Use it as a moment to talk through:

“Baptism is how we show others that we’ve decided to follow Jesus. It’s like a picture of what’s already happened in your heart—when you chose Him.”
Why do you want to be baptized?
Follow-up prompts:

“Do you remember when you decided to follow Jesus?”
“Did someone at church talk about baptism recently?”
“Is there anything you’re nervous about?”
“Are you doing this because you want to—or because someone else wants you to?”

Parent guidance:
This question helps you see their heart. It’s okay if their answer starts with “Because my friend did”—just lovingly redirect them to the personal meaning behind it:

“That’s awesome that you saw someone else get baptized! But baptism is a choice between you and Jesus. Do you feel like you’re ready to take that step?”
Have you decided to follow Jesus for yourself?
Follow-up prompts:

“What does that mean to you?”
“When did you decide that?”
“What do you believe about Jesus?”
“Do you know that He died and rose again for you?”

Parent guidance:
You’re looking for a personal relationship, not perfect theology. Celebrate what they do understand and fill in the gaps gently. You can say:

“Choosing to follow Jesus means trusting Him with your life—and believing that He loves you, forgives you, and wants to lead you.”

If they’re not quite there, encourage them to keep learning and asking questions. This isn’t a test—it’s a journey.
How do you feel about telling others you believe in Him?
Follow-up prompts:

“What would you want to say if someone asked why you’re getting baptized?”
“Are you excited? Nervous? Both?”
“Do you think it’s easy or hard to share your faith?”
“What do you want your friends or family to know about Jesus?”

Parent guidance:
Help them connect baptism with boldness and identity in Christ. If they’re nervous, that’s normal—just remind them:

“Baptism is one way to say, ‘I belong to Jesus.’ You’re not alone—your church family will be cheering for you every step of the way.”

This time, it’s not because someone brought them—

it’s because they’ve chosen to follow Jesus.

We honor every parent’s decision to dedicate their children in the way that aligns with their faith tradition.  But water baptism as a believer is different—it’s a personal choice to publicly say, “I’ve decided to follow Jesus.”  If your child expresses this desire now, it may be time for them to be baptized again—as a decision they’ve made themselves.

What's next?

Step 1: Fill out interest form

Step 2: Conversation with our team

Step 3: Prepare and celebrate!

Fill Out the Baptism Interest Form