Kids love to copy what they see their parents and older people do.
When Christian parents pray, they often hope their children will do the same. Once your child understands what faith is and makes a public profession, it’s important to teach them how to pray.
Here are 10 tips to help you guide your child in prayer.
1. Explain What Prayer Is
Children might not know that prayer is a special way to talk with God. Take the time to explain what prayer is and why it matters.
Memorizing Bible verses can help them understand.
For example, 1 Thessalonians 5:17 says, “Pray without ceasing.”
Discuss what this means and explain how we can pray silently, even without saying the words out loud. For instance, if your child stubs their toe, they can silently ask, “Lord, please help my toe heal.”
2. Set an Example
Kids are like little sponges—they absorb what they see. As Paul said in Philippians 3:17, “Brothers, join in imitating me…”
Pray together as a family at meals, bedtime, and other moments. Let your child see you during your personal prayer time, whether you’re praying silently or aloud. If they seem interested, invite them to join in.
3. Show Them How to Pray Respectfully
Teach your child that prayer is like entering a holy space where we show God the respect He deserves. Matthew 6:5-6 offers a good example.
Create a quiet space at home or in your backyard where you and your child can pray without distractions. Explain that when we pray, we approach God with reverence because He is holy.
Whether kneeling or sitting, teach them to bow their heads, as if standing before God’s throne. Closing their eyes can help them focus better.
Reassure them that God hears all prayers and cares for us (Romans 8:28; 1 Peter 3:12). Remind them that it’s okay if the words don’t come out perfectly; what matters is being honest with God.
4. Use Scripture to Teach
Get your child a children’s Bible and read it together. Highlight parts where prayer is part of the story.
Take Psalm 23, for example. As you read it, explain that this psalm is a prayer by King David to the Lord. Discuss how, despite being a king, David still needed God as his Shepherd.
Ask your child if they need things like peace, comfort, or security, and then help them pray like David did.
Encourage them to pray out loud, so they become more comfortable with it.
5. Help Them Pray Scripture Back to God
With a children’s Bible, guide your child to pray using Scripture.
For example, Psalm 23 can become a prayer like, “Lord, You are my Shepherd. You give me everything I need…”
6. Introduce the ACTS Prayer Method
Teach your child to structure their prayers with the ACTS acronym:
- Adoration: “Lord, I love You because You are…”
- Confession: “Father, I’m sorry I yelled at my dad. Please forgive me.”
- Thanksgiving: “Lord, thank You for the food You provide.”
- Supplication: “Jesus, please help my friend learn to pray too.”
7. Explain What “Amen” Means
Help your child understand that “amen” means “so be it” or “truly.” It’s a way to agree with God’s will.
For example: “Father, You are awesome. Thank You for saving me. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.”
8. Encourage Daily Bible Reading
As your child grows in prayer, regular Bible reading will strengthen their understanding. The Bible is the best place to learn God’s will, which is essential for meaningful prayer.
For example, if your child reads about Joseph in Genesis 37-50, ask them what Joseph might have prayed when he was in tough situations. This helps them see the different reasons people pray.
9. Teach Them to Pray for a Holy Life
God calls us to live holy lives. Encourage your child to pray for this and guide them to Scripture for guidance.
For example, explain the fruits of the Spirit in Galatians 5:22-23, and then have them pray: “Lord, help me love like Jesus” or “Father, fill me with Your joy.”
10. Encourage Them to Praise God for His Creation
Teach your child to notice and praise God for His creation, as Psalm 19:1-6 says.
Go outside during sunrise and sunset to marvel at the sky and praise God together. At night, look at the stars and remind them that God knows each star by name—just as He knows theirs (Psalm 147:4).
Reading Genesis 9:13 about the rainbow can also inspire your child to praise God for His promises.
These tips are just the beginning, and you might have other ideas too. We hope these suggestions encourage you and bring glory to God as you teach your child to pray.
Johnny specializes in content related to Jesus, the Bible, and religious topics. With a profound understanding of spirituality, Johnny’s articles are both insightful and inspiring, guiding readers through the complexities of faith.
