Teaching my kids to pray without making it seem forced

1w ago1 min read

Been struggling with this lately. My kids are 8 and 11 and I feel like they're just going through the motions at dinner prayers. I want them to actually develop their own relationship with God instead of just doing what dad says. Started letting them lead prayers sometimes and ask them genuine questions about what they're thankful for. It's slower but I can tell they're actually thinking about it now instead of rushing through. Anyone else deal with this? How do you keep prayer natural and meaningful in your home?

3 comments145 views

Comments(3)

GGarrettRegular1w ago

I think the key is making it a conversation instead of a monologue. My 8 year old started actually engaging when I asked him what he was grateful for that day, then we'd pray about it together. Way less forced that way.

TTony M.Regular1w ago

We use a sticker chart approach for bedtime prayers and it's been a game changer. Not bribing them exactly, just giving them something concrete to work toward. Gets them invested in the routine.

BBradRegular1w ago

Honestly this is one where I just model it myself and let them see it naturally. My kids picked up on praying before meals way more by watching me do it than by me telling them to. Lead by example and they'll follow.