Byline // Shauna Stonewall
Introduction: The Beauty of Prayer for Little Ones
Introducing prayer to little children can be a beautiful and meaningful experience. Prayer is not only a way to connect with God but also a way to instill important values. It fosters a sense of gratitude in children from an early age. In this blog, we will delve into the significance of praying with little children. Additionally, we’ll provide some practical tips to make prayer engaging and fun for both parents and children.
The Importance of Teaching Prayer
Teaching little children to pray helps them develop a sense of empathy, compassion, and belonging. It introduces the concept that there is something greater than themselves. Our children need to know they can go to God for anything at any time. Therefore, making prayer a part of your daily routine is crucial. Start by setting aside a specific time each day to pray together as a family. This demonstrates commitment and consistency to your children.
Practical Tips for Engaging Children in Prayer
Begin with short and simple prayers that reflect their daily experiences. For instance, give thanks for food, family, and friends. Teach prayers through repetition and visualization. Use objects or actions to help children engage with the words and concepts. In Early Childhood, we use the “Fruit of the Spirit Prayer Tree.” This visual aid helps little ones grasp the concept of prayer. Moreover, incorporating songs or rhyming words into prayers will make the experience more exciting and memorable for children.
Creative Ways to Pray
It’s also fun to create prayer cards or a prayer jar. Here, children can write or draw their prayers, helping them express their thoughts and feelings. Use storytelling to introduce prayers based on Bible stories. This makes them relatable and inspiring for children. Allowing little children to create their prayer encourages them to express their unique thoughts and fosters their creativity.
The Role of Adults in Children’s Prayer Life
Prayer time with my granddaughter Sophia, who is three years old, has been enlightening. It has reminded me of the importance of little children watching adults as they pray alongside them and for them. Psalm 35:27 says, “Only blessings will come upon my children.” When little ones see adults pray, they feel more comfortable sharing any worries or concerns they may have during prayer time.
Takeaway: The Lasting Impact of Prayer
Prayer with your little children is a powerful way to nurture their young minds, foster positive values, and promote emotional well-being. Remember, the journey of prayer with little children is not just about the process. It’s also about the destination. Enjoy these precious moments and watch as they blossom spiritually.
5 Responses
Jesus said we are to love and care for children. Today’s prayer lesson is right on. This reminds me of the children we see in the Mission field in Mexico praying, praising and thanking God for the blessings and provision being provided to them. It warms your heart to see their innocence.
Love these tips on praying with children!
I enjoy praying with my grandchildren so much. And to listen to their heartfelt prayers.. it’s the best! Have a great day!
This also sounds practical to brand new babies in Jesus! I am encountering adults that are starting out with no knowledge of scripture or positive Christian models. Thank you for sharing this with us. Be richly blessed.
I so wish I would have been a more mature christian when my kids were little. I never understood the power of prayer until I was this old. Lol. Now I stop drop and pray for whatever comes my way. My children are now adults but they know how much it matters to me now and I’m still trying to show them they way.
Thank you Shauna this was beautiful.
Proverbs 22:6
Start children off on the way
They should go, and even when they are old they will not turn from it.🙏🙏