Then comes the formal operations stage, beyond twelve years, when children perform operations in abstract thought. Only now will they be able to understand that the picture of Christ knocking on the door of our heart is a picture that speaks of God's Spirit calling to Man's spirit. The inability of a child to relate to abstract ideas is of particular interest and importance when trying to lead children into an abstract experience, such as the worship of an invisible yet omnipresent God. Once we are aware of these limitations we can develop strategies for communicating abstract spiritual truths in concrete terminology. By comparing abstract ideas to tangible things the child has experienced, they are able to grasp many spiritual truths.
Attention span is short and music potential limited.
They need to have their pitch sense, rhythm and co- ordination developed. They learn quickly by memory but also forget very quickly what they have learnt. Frequent repetition is necessary for both learning and retaining. The songs should emphasise simple truths about Jesus' love, and God's nature. Music should be simple children's songs with short phrases and steady rhythms.