In our progressive, yet conflicted and confused society, should children be taught to pray? Though some might label you as dogmatic, paternalistic, or narrow-minded, even closed-minded… the answer is — Absolutely! As a parent, teacher, or pastor, it’s your responsibility to teach and model, not only how to pray, but what, where, when, and why children should pray.

Why is Prayer Important?

  1. It maintains a close relationship between the child and God. (Daniel 6)
  2. It helps children face their problems by faith. (Philippians 4:6)
  3. Jesus taught us to pray. (Matthew 6)
  4. It builds and strengthens the child’s faith. (Jeremiah 33:3)
  5. Prayer is a Key to the Kingdom, which unlocks, opens, and changes the spiritual atmosphere of the child’s heart, school, home, or community.

What should you teach children about Prayer?

  1. What is prayer?
    A: It’s “talking with God” communicating with words, thoughts, and listening via the Holy Spirit and God’s Word (Bible). Consider using a audio Bible app for listening to Scripture. CEF Durham uses the app from Streetlights for city kids and our Good News Clubs.
  2. Who can pray?
    A: God desires “everyone” to pray. All believing children can pray in faith/believing God for what they ask (Mark 11:23-24) yet sin can be a barrier to God’s answers (Isaiah 59:1-2, Psalm 66:18) to prayer. God will hear the child’s prayers if they confess sin and obey Him (1 John 1:9). God is always ready to listen and answer “Yes” to a child’s prayer for forgiveness and believing on His Son, the Lord Jesus Christ. (John 1:12)
  3. Where can you pray?
    A: “Anywhere” — Jonah prayed in the belly of the fish. Paul & Silas prayed in jail. Daniel prayed in a lion’s den. Children can pray anywhere: home, school, playground, at meals, and with friends.
  4. When can you pray?
    A: “Anytime” — Pray without ceasing (1 Thes. 5:17) – Pray at all times (Ephesians 6:18) – Pray at appointed times of the day (Psalm 55:17)
  5. Why should you pray?
    A: “Because God wants to spend time with His Children.”
  6. What are God’s Good Answers to prayer?
    A: “Yes” according to His Will (1 Kings 18)
    A: “No” if it would not be good for you right now (2 Corinthians 12)
    A: “Wait” if it is not God’s perfect time (John 11)

Additional Resources:

Read more at CEF/pray about teaching children to pray & ask questions

PrayLive and Streetlights apps are available for all electronic devices