Grandparent Tiny Try-It-Out: Playful Prayer

“Fold your hands, bow your head, close your eyes” is one way to pray—but prayer can be playful, too! Make your own prayer cubes by printing, cutting, coloring, and pasting — then roll and pray together!

We know from research and experience that faith is “caught” more than it is “taught.” In other words, faith is best shared through role modeling within trusted relationships, rather than through rote memorization or intellectual exercises.

That’s why you play such an important role in nurturing the faith of your grandchildren – they love you, they trust you, they pay attention to how you live your faith – and they grow! This month, we highlight a tool for helping you pray while you play together.

Ideas for Grandparents

Consider these Playful Prayer adaptations for your unique circumstances:

  • As a regular caregiver for little ones: During craft time cut, color, and paste (and use) a Picture Prayer Cube or Emotion Prayer Cube.
  • At a special family gathering: While some prepare the food and set the table, others assemble the Mealtime Prayer Cube to use once everyone sits down to dinner.
  • From a distance: Add the names of special people to each side of the Make-Your-Own Prayer Cube. Pick a regular time each day (over coffee or after dinner) to give it a roll and pray for whoever turns “up.” Bonus: send a quick text to say “I prayed for you today!”
  • With older kids: Try a playful prayer that may appeal to less talkative teens. Find how-to instructions for the “Whisper Prayer” at the tail end of Zach’s Good News for Kids.

How will you carve out holy space to play and pray with those you love?

Camille Loves Candle Time: Preschooler Camille has burned through several candles practicing Candle Time at Nana Lisa and Papa Mike’s house, who provide regular care for their granddaughter. Today’s high? Spending time with family. Today’s low? Getting bumped with a grocery cart. Her favorite part of Candle Time is singing “Jesus Loves Me” together.

How have you practiced faith with your loved ones? Share a photo or story with Katie.

Join our email list

Join our email list

Text here

Join our email list
Text here
Join our email list
Text here