Repetition, repetition...

The Talking Jesus Doll and BibleKids take advantage of the most powerful tool in childhood learning - repetition. When children encounter information repeatedly, it becomes hardwired in their memory.

We have researched the research, and find it interesting.  Simply put, the more repetition, the more retention. One study (Yang et al., 2016) found that 6 repetitions resulted in statistically significant retention compared to one.  What was interesting was that another study (Zhan et al, 2018) found that this is because repetition moves retention moves from the neocortex (temporary recall) to the hippocampus (long term memory).

That's why we have the most important phrases of Jesus on repeat.  The Golden Rule, The Lords Prayer, John 3:16, Ten Commandments, Psalm 23.. Over and over and over.

And that's also because for repetition to be valuable, concept must have the right level of complexity. It must be complex enough to allow for progression into deeper and deeper levels of comprehension, but not too complex that it is confusing and overwhelming. That is why our doll is the way it is. It opens the door to any child toward a progression in knowledge and eventually faith.

Plus, young children are constantly surrounded by people, places, experiences, that inherently create confusion and uncertainty.  For children in their early years, repetition offers understanding, familiarity and predictability.  It makes Jesus a comfort to them.  This connotation of comfort can be a foundation toward His eternal comfort.

Repetition is critical Bible verse memorization.  Bible verse memorization is important because it creates a long term recall capability of scripture - the most important information. This recall allows a child to weigh a current situation against the infallible truths that are presented in the Bible.  Science teacher talking about Big Bang?  Your kid knows that "In the beginning, God created the heaven and the earth".  Unsure what to do in a situation at school?  "Treat others the way you want to be treated". 

Being audible-ready with scripture helps also to disciple and defend Christianity.  And as your child goes through life, the words stay with you and bring grounding, comfort and peace. How many times have I recalled "Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil.  For thou art with me".

Moses knew all of this thousands of years ago.  He endorsed repetition to learn the commandments. After God have Moses the Ten Commandments the second time, Moses implored the Israelites in Deut 6:7-9: "And you shall teach them diligently to your children and speak of them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up. Tie them as reminders on your hands and bind them on your foreheads. Write them on the doorposts of your houses and on your gates."  

Repetition is a fundamental building block in a child’s learning journey. Repetition is a valuable tool for nurturing young Christian minds and fostering lasting knowledge. Bible verse memorization is vital and it only happens through repetition.  The Talking Jesus Doll and BibleKids are one way to teach scripture to young children.  There are others and we recommend them too.  Give Jesus always and in all ways.