When Kids Pray

I love listening to kids' prayers. It is a window into their heart, and a chance to see what is important to them and how they relate to God. Kids really do have a childlike, sincere and expectant faith. We encourage kids to pray as a way to connect with God, not just rattle off a list of things we want Him to do for us.

One day in our preschool room, I observes a little girl who was terribly upset. She was crying and telling her teacher what a bad morning she was having. The teacher stopped and immediately took the girl's hand and asked if she could pray with her. They bowed their heads and prayed together. I came back a few minutes later to see the little girl happily engaging in the lesson, and having a great time.

We want to teach kids that prayer is not just something we do before a meal or before bed, but it is just us talking with God, and listening to God. We want to teach kids that it is something we can do any time in the day. Next time you are around kids, and one of them shares a problem or a worry, ask the child if you can stop right then and pray together. The more kids pray with faith, the more they will see God at work in their lives and answering their prayers.

We teach kids that when they pray, it is a time to talk and listen to their closest friend, our Lord. Let's model this kind of prayer relationship, and encourage kids to have a close relationship with God.