Along with the happiness of parenthood, we have another matter of risks. It is not only the responsibility of taking care of our children but also for the spiritual education we give them from the moment they are conceived.
“Do we seek to understand ‘where’ our children really are in their journey? Where is their soul, do we really know? And above all: do we want to know? Are we convinced that they, in reality, aren’t waiting for something else?” (Pope Francis)
Here are some tips to bring our children closer to God.
1. Pray Out Loud During Pregnancy
Our little ones hear our voices even while they are in the womb. Hence we have to recite our daily prayers loudly. Choose a comfortable place where you will not be interrupted or distracted. You can even set up an altar, or pray while contemplating a little card of the Virgin Mary or Jesus so that your thoughts are focused on the prayer.
You should be able to make feel that moment is unique and special for both of you; you can choose any hour of the day to make it a daily routine. While you pray, you can caress your belly so that your baby can feel that the prayer is dedicated to him, too.
2. Take Your Children to Mass
Some people think it is annoying to take little children to Mass, since they cry loudly, make noise, make people uncomfortable, or simply can’t stay still. It is great to take your child to Mass every Sunday, just as you used to do before he was born.
If he is still a little baby and cries, you can calm him down by feeding him; if he is a little older, and he already crawls or walks, or has continuous tantrums, take him out of the church and take a little stroll until he calms down, then returns to Mass.
3. Pray with Them Before Bedtime
Kneel down and pray next to their bed or cradle; For the little ones, everything amazes them and makes them curious; they have the ability to imitate both the good and the bad. And most probably, while you pray, they will try to get your attention; they will start talking, as if you were encouraging them to do so, they will sing, will take out their toys, or will pull your t-shirt.
You can take advantage of every opportunity to say about God.
4. Make Them Familiar with the Images of Jesus and Mary
Every Catholic should have an altar at home. It does not have to take up a whole room, but it must be in a special place, visible and accessible to all the members of the family. It is very important that our little ones can find images of Jesus, Mary, and the saints.
5. Let Them Choose Movies and Books about God
Take advantage of your children’s liking movies and tales. Buy movies like “Noah’s Ark,” “David and Goliath,” “The Good Samaritan,” “The Prodigal Son,” “The Story of Joseph and his Brothers,” “The Miracles of Jesus,” “The Prince of Egypt,” “Joseph: King of Dreams,” etc.
There are also many books that teach children the stories of the Bible with illustrations, in a fun way. You can buy coloring books or the so-called “Children’s Bible,” available in many bookstores or libraries.
6. Let them Participate in Activities Related to the Church
If there is a children’s missionary group in your child’s school, let him be a member. If he likes to act or sing, let him participate in religious plays, or encourage him to join the church choir. If his school collects clothes or food for the needy, explain to him why we must help our neighbors.
Never prohibit your child from participating in these kinds of activities if he shows interest; let him have the experience, and always keep a positive attitude about his achievements and adventures. Let him know how much God likes his good behavior and solidarity, by letting him know that you are proud to be his parent.
7. Let them See that There are Kids that Do Not Have Everything
Taking our children to foundations or institutions that help others is a beautiful experience for all the people involved: the kids we visit, our own children, and ourselves. Helping them see that the world is not an ideal place and that not all children have a home with a dad and a mom will open their hearts. You can go to a foundation with foster children or orphans, or visit the Children’s Hospital. All children deserve to be loved and listened to.
Allow your child to have this kind of experience at least twice a year. Organize a soccer game, a movie afternoon, or a get-together with an organization of your choice. This way, your child will understand that not all children have all the privileges he has; he will learn to share and see everyone as an equal. There will be no distinctions during the game, and he will become a conscious child, willing to help others anywhere.