Imagine capturing ordinary moments to captivate your child’s heart toward the heart of the Father.

It was bedtime again, and I was mentally chasing around the thoughts of the day. I had not completed one thing on list. As I reflect on our family’s nighttime affair, it was the frustration of trying to slow down the pace of a crazy big family that left me feeling defeated. Being overcome by the demands of the day, I was just looking forward to some peace and quiet. Alone time.

As they giggled, stalled, and ran for one more trip to the bathroom, I yelled. (Not one of my finer moments, but I am human, and the day had been long.) Pouring into tiny squirrelly creatures all day takes its toll on every mom at some point.

As they drifted off to sleep, what were my last words? Prayers. Yes, we had gathered to pray before the lights went off. Phew. This bedtime routine allows me the opportunity to close the day focused on God. I am no Mother Teresa, but each day ends with our heads bowed and heart surrendered.

Moments count when raising kids. Each time you deposit truth into your child builds trust. Making routine tasks a teaching opportunity solidifies their faith. When you use mealtimes, bedtimes, holidays, and milestones, you connect with God on different levels. Seizing the day shapes their understanding of the holy things. Making Jesus a part of every day allows a natural flow into your home. Not in a stuffy, formal manner, but out of natural connections. Praying before bedtime causes you to pause and reflex with a thankful heart. Leading your kids to the foot of Jesus should be a regular activity done with ease, but also with intentionality.

Start with one area such as bedtime and create a predicable routine.

Beyond teeth brushing and drinks of water, stop and pray with your children. A simple, age-appropriate prayer brings a closure to the day that recenters the child. As you end your day with thanksgiving, you bring focus, which opens doors of communication on a regular basis. God wants to connect with us every day. He is waiting. That “touch point” brings you closer to the Father and your child.

If it is not a regular thing, start tonight. It does not need to be long. Tell your child, “Hey, we are going to pray tonight before bed.” Simple. This builds yours (and their) spiritual muscle of prayer.

Prayer should be natural. There is no one way, right way to pray. It is just talking, no fancy, formal words required. You don’t need a recited prayer at all, but I added a few to get you started. Some families end prayer time with predictable words of blessings.

God is waiting, listening, and ready. Each night opens doors to close the day with words of gratitude and creates a safe place to lay our concerns. This isn’t just for younger kids; our teens need this too.

Prayer changes things!