Prayers for little ones

A very young child cannot follow a long prayer, but can feel calm and loved in a short, warm one. Here are simple prayers for table, morning and bedtime, and a few ideas for making them a gentle habit.

At the table

“Thank you, God, for our food. Thank you for each other. Amen.”

In the morning

“Good morning, God. Thank you for a new day. Help us to be kind. Amen.”

At bedtime

“Thank you, God, for today. Keep us safe tonight. We love you. Amen.”

You can add names: “God bless Mama, Papa, Lola, Lolo, and ...”

Making it a habit

• Keep it short, calm and the same each time. A toddler loves a familiar ritual.
• Hold your child, or hold hands. Touch and your quiet voice matter as much as the words.
• Let your child join the “Amen”, or a gesture such as folded hands or a bow.
• Use your own words, too. There is no wrong way to talk to God.
• Many families also pray a prayer from their own tradition, such as the Lord's Prayer. A toddler may only join in at the end, and that is all right.

A note

Families pray in different ways, and some do not pray. These are simple, gentle prayers that most Christian families can use, and you are free to change the words to fit your family and church.

Where this comes from

This is a play and practice activity with no factual claims to source.

Written with AI assistance and checked against the sources listed. Please read it before sharing it with a child.