7 Ways to Teach Kids Meaningful Lenten Reflection: Nurturing Faith in Families

As parents, nurturing our children’s faith is a vital responsibility. Lent, the period of 40 days leading up to Easter, presents an excellent opportunity to teach kids about meaningful reflection and deepen their understanding of their Christian faith. In this article, we will explore seven effective ways to teach kids meaningful Lenten reflection, fostering faith within families.

1. Engage in Family Devotions and Prayer

One powerful way to teach kids about Lenten reflection is by engaging in regular family devotions and prayer. Set aside a specific time each day or week to gather as a family and read Scripture, reflect on its meaning, and pray together. By involving children in these spiritual practices, we create an environment where they can ask questions, learn from the wisdom of Scripture, and grow closer to God.

Debbie Kolacki of PRC - Practical Resources for Churches emphasizes the importance of family involvement in Christian education. She suggests that settings where the whole family is present or where parents are available while children are involved in an activity offer an opportunity for faith formation. By incorporating devotional time into family routines, we create space for meaningful conversations about faith and provide a strong foundation for spiritual growth.

2. Encourage Acts of Service and Sacrifice

During Lent, encourage your children to engage in acts of service and sacrifice. Help them understand that these actions mirror Jesus’ sacrifice for us on the cross. Engaging in acts of service can include volunteering at a local shelter or food bank, writing letters to those who are lonely or in need of encouragement, or participating in community service projects.

According to a study conducted by Share Jesus International, 92% of parents felt they should be doing more to teach their children about the Christian faith. By involving children in acts of service and sacrifice, we teach them the value of selflessness and compassion. This hands-on approach allows children to experience the joy that comes from serving others and cultivates a heart of gratitude.

3. Create a Lenten Calendar or Journal

Creating a Lenten calendar or journal can be an engaging and interactive way to teach kids about meaningful reflection during this season. A Lenten calendar can include daily Scripture readings, reflection questions, and activities for children to complete. By encouraging children to reflect on their thoughts, feelings, and experiences, they develop a habit of introspection and deepen their understanding of the Lenten season.

Desiring God recommends making Christ visible to our children by incorporating joy in our daily lives. By creating a Lenten calendar or journal, we provide a tangible tool for children to express their thoughts, explore their faith, and develop a personal connection with Jesus.

4. Engage in Age-Appropriate Discussions

Engaging in age-appropriate discussions is crucial when teaching kids about meaningful Lenten reflection. Tailor your conversations to suit the developmental stage of your child. Younger children may benefit from simple explanations of Lent’s significance, such as Jesus’ sacrifice or the importance of repentance. Older children can delve deeper into theological concepts and engage in discussions about their personal faith journeys.

Christian Learning & News emphasizes the importance of nurturing children’s personal relationship with Jesus. By engaging in open and honest discussions, we allow children to ask questions, voice their doubts, and seek understanding. This approach fosters an environment of trust and encourages children to develop a genuine faith that is rooted in their own experiences.

5. Attend Church Services and Participate in Lenten Traditions

Attending church services and participating in Lenten traditions is an essential aspect of nurturing faith within families during the Lenten season. Many churches offer special services during this time, such as Ash Wednesday services or Stations of the Cross. These traditions provide opportunities for families to come together, worship, and reflect on the significance of Lent.

Focus on the Family suggests involving children in a faith-based support network and participating in church groups or Christian youth organizations. By exposing children to these communal experiences, we help them build a sense of belonging within their faith community and foster connections with peers who share their values.

6. Incorporate Lenten Symbols and Practices

Incorporating Lenten symbols and practices can further deepen children’s understanding of the season. For example, you can create a family Lenten centerpiece with purple candles, symbolizing the penitential nature of Lent. Light one candle each week leading up to Easter as a visual reminder of Jesus’ journey to the cross.

Backed by the Bible recommends using examples of children’s behavior to teach them about important values. For instance, if they are being kind to their sibling, acknowledge their actions and explain that kindness is an essential value taught by Jesus.

7. Read and Discuss Bible Stories Relevant to Lent

Reading and discussing Bible stories that are relevant to Lent is an effective way to teach kids about the significance of this season. Stories such as Jesus’ temptation in the wilderness, his entry into Jerusalem, or his crucifixion and resurrection provide valuable lessons about sacrifice, obedience, and God’s love for us.

Christian Parenting suggests selecting age-appropriate Bible stories that resonate with your child’s understanding and exploring their meanings together. By using these stories as a foundation for discussion, we help children connect with the biblical narrative and apply its teachings to their own lives.

In conclusion, teaching kids meaningful Lenten reflection requires intentional effort and engagement from parents. By engaging in family devotions, encouraging acts of service, creating Lenten calendars or journals, engaging in age-appropriate discussions, attending church services, incorporating Lenten symbols and practices, and reading and discussing relevant Bible stories, we can nurture faith within our families during the Lenten season. Let us embrace this opportunity to deepen our children’s understanding of their Christian faith and foster a lifelong relationship with God.