Praying with a Two Year Old
Since Izzy was born we have prayed with her before bedtime. I memorized specific scriptures when I was pregnant with her and Psalm 121 helped me so much after she was born. I was constantly worried if she was still breathing when she was sleeping as an infant. Psalm 121 reminded me that God never sleeps nor slumbers. He is always watching over Izzy even when I am not.
In the past month it has been so much fun seeing Izzy engage in prayer time. Many times we (adults) think kids are too young to understand what is going on. I think this is a mistake. I remember in the spring we were out to dinner with Darryl’s co-workers and before we ate, Izzy looked right at us, folded her hands and said “pray.” It was too cute! She wasn’t even two years old and she knew we were forgetting to do something before we ate.
Praying With A Two Year Old
- It’s easy really! Start by including your toddler in your prayer time. Pray out loud and let your kids hear how you communicate with God.
- Give them a chance to pray. Izzy has been learning to take turns. One night we said okay “Izzy’s turn.” To our amazement she got a big smile on her face, folded her hands and starting praying. It wasn’t totally coherent, but I know God heard her prayer.
- Give guidance. Sometimes Izzy needs help starting the prayer. Since she repeats everything we say, we model for her how to pray. Start by addressing God, then spend some time thanking Him. At night, we usually ask that He would watch over Izzy and bless her sleep. Izzy loves shouting “AMEN” at the end of the prayer.
- It’s okay if your toddler’s prayer is simple. When they are young, I think it’s great to show them Jesus is our friend and someone we can confide in. Modeling a short simple prayer is a wonderful way to do this.
- Have fun. We love hearing what Izzy is going to pray for each day. Sometimes her prayers are all about food. She thanks God for applesauce, yogurt and chicken. Other nights she is thankful for Melmo (Elmo) and Piglet. Praying with your kids will certainly bring a smile to your face.
How do you include your children in your prayer life? Do you think it’s important to start praying with them when they are young?
I tried to comment twice yesterday, maybe this one will go through!
Izzy is so cute saying her prayers! I love that you keep her involved 🙂 one of my favorite things is when Maria will look at a picture of Jesus and say “Zheezh-zz!” I usually try to say “yes, Jesus! Let’s pray to Jesus. Say I love you Jesus! Help me be a good girl. Amen.” Or something along those lines.