By Matt Behrens
Whether you’re a children’s ministry leader, a teacher, or a parent, you know the importance of modeling good habits for the children in your care. Use the following ideas to infuse joy and intentionality into the prayer life of even the youngest of children. Share these ideas with the families in your ministry!
- Use daily rhythms to establish regular times for prayer. For example, many families use mealtimes and bedtimes as triggers for prayer. You can also pray before extended travel. Build a habit of saying a quick one-line prayer with your toddlers when you see flashing lights or hear sirens from first responders.
- Repeat prayers work really well for this age. You say a couple words, and then your children repeat what you just said.
- Prayers with motion are fun for young kids. You can make up actions or look for them online.
- Pray for the key people in your children’s life. From their perspective, these are most likely the adults in your home, their siblings, and other significant adults like grandparents or caretakers.
A Motion Prayer
(Reach as high as you can.)
Thank you, God, for our highs! (Kids repeat.)
(Reach down and touch your toes.)
Thank you, God, for being with us in our lows. (Kids repeat.)
(Spread arms wide to each side.)
Thank you, God, for being all around us! (Kids repeat.)
(Wrap arms around to give yourself a hug.)
Thank you, God, for always loving us! (Kids repeat.)
After saying the prayer, everybody in the family can share the “highs” and “lows” of their day.
Editor’s note: Today’s devotion is slightly adapted from He’s Listening! Prayers for Dads. CTA also offers a similar book but with different content: He’s Listening! Prayers for Moms. Check out these two gems and share with those in your ministry!