Too often children are allowed to grow up without religion because their parents think they are too young to have Christian duties enjoined upon them.... (AH 320.1) MC VC

The question of the duty of children in regard to religious matters is to be decided absolutely and without hesitancy while they are members of the family. (AH 320.2) MC VC

Parents stand in the place of God to their children to tell them what they must do and what they must not do with firmness and perfect self-control. Every effort made for them with kindness and self-control will cultivate in their characters the elements of firmness and decision.... Fathers and mothers are in duty bound to settle this question early so that the child will no more think of breaking the Sabbath, neglecting religious worship and family prayer than he would think of stealing. Parents’ own hands must build the barrier. (AH 320.3) MC VC

From the earliest age a wise education in Christ’s lines is to be begun and carried forward. When the children’s hearts are impressible, they are to be taught concerning eternal realities. Parents should remember that they are living, speaking, and acting in the presence of God. (AH 320.4) MC VC

Parents, what course are you pursuing? Are you acting upon the idea that in religious matters your children should be left free of all restraint? Are you leaving them without counsel or admonition through childhood and youth? Are you leaving them to do as they please? If so, you are neglecting your God-given responsibilities. (AH 320.5) MC VC

Adapt Instruction to the Child’s Age—As soon as the little ones are intelligent to understand, parents should tell them the story of Jesus that they may drink in the precious truth concerning the Babe of Bethlehem. Impress upon the children’s minds sentiments of simple piety that are adapted to their years and ability. Bring your children in prayer to Jesus, for He has made it possible for them to learn religion as they learn to frame the words of the language. (AH 320.6) MC VC