What Is Baptism for a Child?

When a child says, “I want to be baptized,” it marks a hopeful and spiritual moment.
Baptism is a public symbol of trusting Jesus, turning from sin, and beginning a new life with Him.

At Purpose Life Church, we value genuine understanding:
who Jesus is, why He matters, and what it means to follow Him personally.












Important: Baptism should be your child’s own decision, not pressure from anyone, and expressed in their own words.

How Do I Know If My Child Is Ready?

Readiness is shown through conversation. 

We listen for clarity, personal conviction, and a growing love for Jesus.

Not perfection just sincerity.

Three indicators of readiness:

  • Repentance: They understand sin and the need for forgiveness.
  • Belief: They believe Jesus is God’s Son who died and rose again.
  • Decision: They want to follow Jesus personally not just because a sibling or friend is doing it.

Open-ended questions to ask:

  • “What do you think baptism means?”
  • “Why do you want to be baptized?”
  • “When did you decide to follow Jesus?”
  • “What does it mean to follow Jesus every day?”
  • “What does it mean to turn away from sin?”

Listen more than you speak your child’s own words matter most.


Watch Together: Baptism Explained

This child-friendly Bible video is a great conversation starter:

After watching, ask your child:

  • “What stood out to you?”
  • “What did you learn about following Jesus?”
  • “Do you have any questions about baptism now?”


What If My Child Isn’t Ready Yet?

It’s normal for a child to show interest but not yet understand baptism fully.
“Not yet” is a healthy, loving response and part of discipleship.

Signs your child may need more time:

  • They cannot explain baptism in their own words.
  • They want baptism only because a sibling or friend is doing it.
  • They struggle to express who Jesus is or why He died and rose again.
  • They do not yet understand sin or forgiveness.

A supportive response might be:
“I love that you’re wanting to follow Jesus. Let’s keep learning together and talk about baptism again soon.”

Dedication vs. Baptism


Child Dedication is when parents
commit to raising their child
in a Christ-centered home
while the church community supports them.



Baptism is a child’s personal step,
declaring their own faith and choosing to follow Jesus.


Many children are dedicated early and later,
when they are ready,
choose baptism as a personal act of obedience.

Next Steps

If you believe your child is ready for baptism, we would be honored to partner with your family as they take this meaningful step of faith.

Here’s what to do next:

  • Fill out the Baptism Interest Form 
  • Speak with one of our Kids Ministry leaders or pastors to begin the conversation, ask questions, and help confirm your child’s readiness.
  • Have your child join the Kids Baptism Discipleship Class, where we walk through the meaning of baptism, the gospel, and what it means to follow Jesus daily.
  • Help your child prepare a simple 1–2 minute testimony in their own words about why they want to be baptized and how Jesus is working in their life.

What Our Ministry Team Will Do

Our Kids Ministry and pastoral team will personally walk your family through:

  • What Baptism Sunday looks like arrival times, check-in process, clothing, towels, photos, seating, and how we celebrate.
  • Any questions your child may have so they feel supported and confident.
  • Follow-up contact to help your family continue the discipleship journey.

How Parents Can Support Their Child After Baptism

Baptism is the beginning of your child’s walk with Jesus, not the end.

We encourage parents to play an active role in nurturing their child’s growing faith.

  • Talk often about Jesus what He’s teaching them, how they’re growing, and how to follow Him in daily life.
  • Pray together regularly to strengthen spiritual habits at home.
  • Help them stay connected to church through Kids Ministry, worship, and family devotion practices.
  • Celebrate their spiritual steps and encourage them as they learn to walk with God.

We believe children thrive when the church and family partner together. Our commitment is to walk with you but your voice at home makes the deepest impact on their faith journey.