Growing a Child’s Prayer Life
Teaching children to pray seems simple, right? Recite at bedtime, recite at meals, recite at church …
But it’s important for parents to teach their children to pray anytime, in any situation. Children can learn that prayer is a conversation with God and a time to open themselves to hear God’s message for them.
This resource has ideas for families addressing 3 stages of prayer life:
- starting: You don’t pray at home or recite occasionally at meals or bedtime.
- developing/growing: You’re ready to start trying spontaneous, improvised prayers and simple alternative prayer forms.
- extending/exploring: You’re comfortable praying but want to try new ways to connect with God.
Your children may be at different stages, so use whichever fits them best.
Family Prayer Ideas & Resources
Starting
For younger children
Stop & pray whenever it feels right: Dear God, Thank you for the sunshine! Jesus, please comfort that person having car trouble; Dear Lord, please forgive me for saying unkind words; etc.
Have children fill in the blanks in a prayer you lead: Eg. Dear Jesus, Thank you for giving us ___ today. We love the gifts you give! Help ___ live in your way. Amen.
For an older child & parents
ELCA Prayer Ventures – A prayer for each day of the month
Developing
For younger children
For an older child & parents
Start a prayer journal or prayer list to keep track of people and situations to pray for
Extending
Praying in Color video – Turning doodles into conversation, with Sybil MacBeth
