Raising Prayerful Kids – Hands together, Hearts to God

Many kids and even adults struggle with prayer. How can we help our kids have confidence in approaching God through prayer? No matter how old your child(ren) are, it’s not too late to teach them to pray. Talking to God reminds us that He is in control, He loves us, and He wants to be close to us. It’s all part of us having a relationship with Him. Being intentional is key as we know life gets busy, and distractions are real but God will give you wisdom and strength as you seek Him. Below you will find some helpful tips to encourage a strong prayer life in those hearts you have been chosen to raise up.

Model Prayer
Children learn to pray by seeing us pray. Let them hear us talk to God at home, church, meals, bedtime, anytime. As they watch, they learn how to approach God, when to pray, and why we pray. For example, here at ABVM, whenever we hear sirens pass by, we have the children stop and pray for the medical team and whomever they are going to help. It is quite amazing to witness children out at recess or wherever they are, stop what they are doing to pray for those in need. 

Memorize Prayers
Kids can memorize simple prayers at a very young age. It happens mostly through repetition by having those routines in place. Short meal and bedtime prayers and especially biblical prayers like the Lord’s Prayer help to build understanding and confidence. Ask simple questions afterward to help them think deeper. (“Why do you think we say Give us this day our daily bread?”)

Use Their Own Words
Encourage children to talk to God personally. Remind them that God loves them and wants to hear from them. Their prayer to God is a conversation to build a relationship, invite Him in. Provide gentle opportunities for them to pray out loud, without pressure.

Teach Types of Prayer (ACTS)

• Adoration: Praising God for who He is, acknowledge His greatness
• Confession: Admitting sin and our need for Christ
• Thanksgiving: Thanking God for His gifts, helps us grow in gratitude
• Supplication: Asking God for help for ourselves and others, pray together for friends, family, and people all over the world.

These categories help children see prayer as more than just asking for things. It also shows that He is there for all their needs, He wants the invitation to be close.

Make Prayer a Habit
Pray consistently – individually and together. Pray at meals, bedtime, and throughout the day. Spontaneous prayer can be just as meaningful as planned times. When we teach children to pray, we pass on a treasured part of our faith.

God wants to hear about everything we need. Encourage them enthusiastically to pray about all their concerns and their blessings to build the foundation of faith so that they’ll continue to go to Him as they age, and when life gets harder.