Ten things children should know about prayer

Ever wondered how to get beyond "Now I lay me down to sleep..." when praying with and for your kids? Here are ten things kids should know about prayer.

This list comes to you from Seeds for the Parish, a resource newsletter for leaders in the ELCA. It was printed in the August 2010 edition.

1. Prayer is communication. It can be spoken or silent. It can be a song or a story. It can be a picture or a dance.

2. Prayer can be done as often as you like. Every week. Every day. Every hour.

3. Prayer can be done however you want. There's no right or wrong way to pray.

4. Prayer can be shared, but it doesn't have to be. It can be done alone or with a favorite toy. It can be done with friends, family or pets.

5. Prayer can be done anywhere. It can be done in your room or at the kitchen table. It can be done out in your yard, at the park or even at the zoo.

6. Prayer can be done in any mood. You can be happy, sad, angry, scared or confused when you pray.

7. Prayer can be for yourself or someone else. If you know someone who could use a little help - add them to your prayers.

8. Prayer doesn't need a certain structure, length or specific words. Whatever words you use, long or short, however your prayer comes out is fine.

9. Prayer doesn't need a special occasion. There are certain prayers appropriate to special occasions, but you don't need to wait for a speical time to pray.

10. Prayer doesn't have to be a request. It can also be used to give thanks for what you have already received. "Thank you" is a prefect prayer.