26 Mar Prayers for Children To Say

While we think that it is almost never too early to start teaching the Lord’s Prayer to children, it is a little long with some complicated words. For younger kids and children, it is often good to start with a few shorter prayers with easier language. Many of us grew up with short prayers like “Now I lay me down to sleep. I pray the Lord, my soul to keep. If I should die before I wake, I pray the Lord my soul to take.” which were popular in the Middle Ages, when death at early ages was more common.

However, as 21st century parents, we often look for new bedtime prayers that don’t inject death into the minds of our children every night before they go to bed–as well as other short prayers for kids that are updated for the times. In the following short prayers for children, Living Hour has revised some traditional prayers, making them suitable for all children and parents–whether you are Christian, Catholic, Jewish, or Spiritual But Not Religious.

Morning Prayers for Children

Our Father to whom we pray,

Guide us through another day;

Help us do the things we ought,

Let kindness be in every thought;

Help us love and trust in thee,

Now and through eternity.

Amen.

——

As we awake to greet the day,

Let’s give thanks in every way;

For this new morning with its light,

For the rest and shelter of the night,

For health and food, for love and friends.

For everything that goodness sends,

We thank the Holy Spirit.

Amen.

Short Prayers for Children to Say Before Bed

Our Father to whom we pray,

Forgive us of our wrongs this day.

Bless all the good things we’ve done,

And we’ll do more when tomorrow comes.

Amen.

——

Now that the day is done,

Thank you Father for all that’s come;

For all the good, for all the fun,

For all the bad we learn from.

Watch over us tonight and with your grace,

Tomorrow we’ll make a better place.

Amen.

Short Prayers for Children to Say Before Meals

May God be present at our table,

To remind us of the miracle of life,

And all that we are thankful for.

Amen.

——

God bless our food and our bodies.

Give us health and strength.

Feed our souls with kindness,

And gratitude for every living thing.

Amen.

If you are interested in reading some contemporary prayers which are good for adults, please check out our post: How To Pray.