southernhybrid

5 year olds are very impressionable and I think you can undo the damge that was done by this brief VBS experience. I wouldn't worry too much and I wouldn't make too big a deal about it.

You might explain to her that some people believe there is a god because they don't understand why a lot of things happen. Explain to her that you have given it a lot of thought and you don't think there really is a god, but you are tolerant of people who have other beliefs. Another words, you could use this as a little lesson in tolerance and diversity if that helps.

The biggest problem you may have for now is that at her age she may still be capable of having imaginary friends, so she may not be able to differentiate fantasy from reality. Just keep teaching her to question odd things that people tell her and not to be afraid to think for herself if something doesn't make that much sense. I think that very few children at her age are capable of thinking critically so don't worry too much about her response. I just wouldn't keep allowing her to be indoctrinated in the future. I would teach her about the world's religions but only for their cultural signifcance. You might start looking for some freethought books for children to help you out. I think that there are several at evolvefish.

I was indoctrinated in the Baptist Church and if at any time during my early childhood, my parents had left the church and told me it was all pretend, I would have easily been influenced by them. You are more of an influence on her at this age than the strangers at the church are.

Terracotta

Thanks for the replies, all. I feel I need to further explain myself...

If it had been totally up to me, I wouldn't have let her go. But remember that she is my stepdaughter. As far as her activities go, I give her father (my husband) final say. I know I would have been overruled anyway, so I didn't put up a fight.

And for whoever suggested I spend more time with her, please know that I already spend all day, every day with this child, who is very active and high-maintenance. I also have a 2-month-old baby, so I feel pretty stretched to the limit. A break from SD was greatly needed. I didn't think that VBS would be like it turned out to be. All I remember from my VBS days are funny skits, games, and ice cream.

So, I've been explaining to her that some people believe in God, some people don't, there are people in other parts of the world who believe in different gods, and it's all okay as long as you accept and respect others. I told her that I would teach her about religions, and she can make her own decisions when she gets older. I also told her that she can always come to me to ask questions.

I also confiscated the workbook. Out of sight, out of mind works really well with her.

Southernhybrid, I think you're right. It's not like she spends much time with the people at that church at all. And like I said earlier, it's a topic that is rarely discussed with my friend.

Godless Dave

I don't blame you at all for wanting to find a daytime summer activity for her. But I'm sure there are some secular day camps in your area.