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My son has recently started asking questions about Heaven. He is talking about God and trying to figure out what "God's World" is all about. Is he allowed to take his tractors there? Does God bale hay on the clouds? How w/o grass? Most of the questions are easily answered and I try to make them as exciting and positive as possible. It's obviously something he has been spending a lot of time thinking about.

But a couple of nights, I have put him in bed and he's walked back into my room sniffling. When I asked him what was wrong...he said he was scared of Heaven. That's the last way I want him to feel, so we talked thru it and as best as I can figure out...he's scared he's going tomorrow. I've explained that most people get to go to Heaven when they're old and that their family will be there waiting for them. But, like most 4 yr. olds....the concept of time/being old is pretty abstract.

Has anyone gone thru this? What should I say...w/o having to say too much? I don't want to overwhelm the boy!

Have you thought about Sunday School? Also, there are alot of children's books on that at the book stores. Your child certainly sounds like a thinker and probably smart.

He attends Sunday School at our church. I think his concerns go beyond the "normal" stuff they talk about. It's just very abstract for him. He can't see it and can't touch it. I know it's hard for me at times to believe in things that I can't see. But I have knowledge to back all of those things.

I guess I just answered my own question. Knowledge is going to be the key. I'll have to look for some good books. I'm sure we prob. even have at least one around here at home. Anyone know of a good one?

Wow..I havent gotten to this point in questions yet so I cannot help What a hard one! I guess telling him the earth is only a temporary place for us and heaven is forever where we will live together doesnt help? I am sure he knows the streets are gold and everybody is happy and there are no more boo-boos there too huh??? Hope this passes soon for you.

I recently bought the book "Heaven For Kids" by Randy Alcorn. I found it at Gabriel's in the 40 East shopping center. We had a recent death in the family and I thought the children might have questions about Heaven. It is written in a question and answer format.

I know exactly what you are going through! My 3 yoa has asked questions like who is the Holy Spirit, why did Jesus die, etc. and she too did get concerned about going to Heaven. The concern lasted for a few weeks, but we explained to her that God has something special that she has to do before she will go to Heaven. I told her that my special thing is to be her mommy and help her to grow up (she now thinks her special thing is to be an "animal doctor"). And like you have told your son, that it will long time before she does and that when she does we and other family will be there too. We also explained that it is a wonderful place, but right now she just needs to learn about Jesus and wait to find out what her special thing God needs her to do. Most of the time, the question will be the same exact question or worded similiarly, be sure to give a response that is the same (concise and repeatable by him); meaning do not answer differently each time; use the same words. Having the same response gives small children comfort because they need consistentcy...this gives them control and stability in things that they do not understand. Above all, pray that God will give him the understanding and peace; and you the wisdom and words.

Thanks gals. Great advice!