We all know we need to teach children about the power of prayer.
We recognize that our kids need a relationship with God that will sustain them throughout their lives. So how can we help our little ones really understand why we pray, when to pray, where we can pray, what to pray for, and the different ways we can pray? Teach them the five W’s of prayer by modeling a vibrant prayer life with them every day.
WHY: Casting all your anxieties on him, because he cares for you (1 Peter 5:7)
Assure your kids that they are deeply loved by the one true God, that he is their “heavenly Father” who is always with them. He wants to talk with them about what is happening in their lives and what is on their hearts. Then you share your heart with God in front of your child(ren) and ask them if they want to share theirs too.
WHEN: Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me, and I will hear you. (Jeremiah 29:12)
Explain to your little ones that you pray whenever you want to and that God hears you – no matter when. Pray with your child(ren) anytime, not just before bed or at mealtimes. Talk to Him – out loud with your kids – when you are making a craft, or coloring pictures, or doing homework. Thank God when you see a beautiful flower or a precious puppy. Tell Him when you are scared or need help or feel sad.
WHERE: For where two or three are gathered in my name, there am I among them. (Matthew 18:20)
Remind your little ones that there is no place you cannot pray. Sometimes you can talk to God out loud and other times you just talk to him in your heart and mind. Pray silently with your child in different settings so they can learn how their quiet thoughts are important to God. You and your little one can thank Him when you are having fun at the park. Encourage your little ones to thank God for friends and play dates as you are driving there. No place is “off limits” with God.
WHAT: For nothing will be impossible with God (Luke 1:37)
You can tell God anything and ask Him for anything. If it is His will for you, He will make it happen. Help your child “count their blessings” by making a list of what they are thankful for. You make a list too and then share your blessing lists with each other. Help your child recognize how amazing God is by praising Him for who He is: creator, Father, protector, provider, healer, friend, purpose-giver, leader, servant, rescuer, merciful, kind, generous.
WAYS: Pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. (Ephesians 6:18)
God loves to listen to us and speak to us – he is always available. Think outside the box when it comes to ways to pray and try new things. Empower your kids by asking them to “be in charge” of ways to pray today. Here are just a few ideas:
Fill-In-The-Blank-Thanks
- Today I thank God for furry ____________.
- Right now I am worried about _____________.
Crayons and Creation
- Download and print coloring pages about the things God created in nature: plants, animals, the stars, the universe.
- Ask your child to tell you what the crayon colors are and name something God created that is each color.
- God created blue skies and a yellow sun. Thank you God for sunny days.
- God created white stars and a big moon. Thank you God for shining stars and a bright moon to light the night.
More Ideas
- Sing familiar songs but change the words into prayer requests
- Ask God for strong, healthy bodies while doing stretching exercises with your kids
- Have your child(ren) draw their prayer requests and then color what they drew
Just as God’s love is boundless, so are the ways we can encourage and teach our children the power of prayer.
