Excellent4.8 out of 5On Trustpilot
  1. Blog/
  2. A Catholic Parent’s Guide to Children’s Bibles: Finding the Right Fit

A Catholic Parent’s Guide to Children’s Bibles: Finding the Right Fit

A Catholic children's Bible is defined by the inclusion of 73 books (including the Deuterocanonical books) and an official Imprimatur seal. For UK families and students, the ESV Catholic Edition (ESV-CE) is the new standard for schools, valued for its accuracy and literal translation. The NRSV-CE is widely used in academic settings for its clear, inclusive language, while the Good News Bible (GNB) Catholic Edition is a top choice for early readers or those seeking dyslexia-friendly formats. For those wanting to match the specific text heard during Mass, the CTS New Catholic Bible is the recommended version.

Laura White

By Laura White - Eden Children's Resources Specialist

•
Estimated Read Time: 4 minutes
Children's bibleKid's biblesCatholic Bibles
A Catholic Parent’s Guide to Children’s Bibles:



A Catholic Parent’s Guide to Children’s Bibles: Finding the Right Fit

There is a special joy in giving a child their first Bible. Whether it is for a Christening, a First Holy Communion, or a birthday, you want a gift that helps them feel at home in their faith.

However, Catholic parents often find that many children's bibles don't quite match what their child hears at church or learns at school. At Eden, we want to help you clear up the confusion so you can choose a version that will grow with your child's heart and mind.

More Than Just a Cover

It can be disappointing to buy a Bible only to realise it is missing several stories. A standard Catholic Bible contains 73 books, which is seven more than a typical Church of England version. These "extra" books, like Tobit and Judith, are a key part of Catholic heritage and are often included in school lessons.

When you are browsing, the easiest way to check if a Bible is right for your family is to look for the word Imprimatur. This is a seal of approval from the Catholic Church that confirms the text is an accurate guide for your child’s spiritual journey.

Choosing the Right Version for UK Schools and Home

There are more Catholic editions available than ever before. Here is how to find the one that fits your child’s needs:

  • ESV-CE Catholic Edition (The "Schools' Edition"): This is becoming the new gold standard for Catholic primary and secondary schools. It is a "literal" translation, meaning it is very close to the original ancient words. It is perfect for a child who wants a "proper" Bible that is both beautiful and highly accurate.
  • NRSV-CE (The "Gift" Version): This version is a favourite for gifting. Ideal for a child’s first Bible, Holy Communion or just because.
  • Good News Bible - Catholic Edition (The "Easy Reader"): If your child is just starting to read on their own, the Good News Bible (GNB) is wonderful. It uses simple words and famous line drawings. It is also the "gold standard" for accessible scripture, with special editions designed to help children with dyslexia or visual stress.

The Eden Plan for a Successful Choice

  1. Check the Purpose: Is this for independent reading (try the GNB) or school study (try the ESV-CE)?
  2. Look for the Seal: Always check for the Imprimatur to ensure it includes all 73 books.
  3. Celebrate the Milestone: For a First Holy Communion, consider a "Gift Edition" with a white or silver cover to make the day feel truly significant.

By picking a Bible specifically designed for the Catholic tradition, you are giving your child a foundation that connects their home, their school, and their church life together.

Looking for a Catholic children’s Bible? Shop the ESV-CE Catholic Bible for Kids.