When you’re a Christian parent, welcoming your little ones into your religion can be an exciting experience. As you share the value of the Lord, you will likely have to teach your children about many special Christian practices, including prayer. As newcomers to Christianity, your kids may not always be eager to pray. Fortunately, with the right approach, you can help them appreciate the power of prayer and improve the way they communicate with God. Here are a few tips that can make the process a more joyous experience.

3 Ways to Teach Little Christians How to Pray

1. Share Your Prayer

Proverbs 22:6 says, “Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it.” If you’re a parent, taking this lesson to heart can help you lead by example. As your child’s role model, they will see your own prayers as important and valuable.

So while this practice is often a personal experience, you shouldn’t be afraid to let your little ones see you talk with God. Instead, make it a point to pray loud and proud during church or at home. You might also make a habit of turning to prayer when you encounter problems; this will show your children how making a request to the Lord can help simplify tough situations.

2. Let Them Choose Their Own Words

Young minds can have difficulty memorizing prayers like the Lord’s Prayer or understanding what their words mean. For this reason, it can be helpful to teach children that worship can be spontaneous and made from words that come from their own heart. As they grow more comfortable with crafting their own prayers, they will learn that the act is not merely a recitation; rather, it’s part of a larger conversation that they are having with the Lord.

3. Schedule Prayer Time

While your children should be encouraged to pray individually, it’s also wise to make the practice a family activity, such as before dinner or before bed. Through scheduled prayer, your kids will come to enjoy the process and look forward to sharing a close moment with God and their loved ones. As you keep up with the tradition, let your children lead prayers and commend them for their good work.

In addition to celebrating prayer at home, having a caring church to attend can also help support your children’s journey in worship. That’s why many Oahu families turn to the non-denominational services offered by the City of Refuge Christian Church. For nearly 40 years, this Waipahu, HI, church has been a welcoming spot for all walks of life to experience the Lord and worship in a supportive environment. To learn more about their Bible study programs and contemporary Gospel music services they offer, visit this Christian church online or call (808) 677-5677.