Preparing children for Mass can be a challenge. All they want to do is anything but get ready! With little time available, how do we help our 3 or 4-year-olds prepare their hearts for Mass while also ensuring we’re on time? Here are a few simple ways to teach your preschoolers how to ready their hearts for Jesus:
Getting Dressed: As you help your child get dressed, talk to them about how much we love God and how wearing our best clothes shows that love.
Short Prayer: “Thank you, Jesus, for these clothes that keep me warm. Help me wear Your love today by being kind and good like You.”
Fixing Hair: While helping your child with their hair, remind them how much Jesus loves them and that He knows everything about them—even how many hairs are on their heads!
Short Prayer: “Thank you, Jesus, for loving me so much! Help me to love like You.”
Breakfast: Even if breakfast is just a quick piece of toast or a Pop-Tart, take a moment to pray before eating. Remind your child about the Last Supper, where Jesus gathered with His disciples. Explain that at Mass, Jesus shares His Body and Blood with us because we are part of His family too!
Short Prayer: “Thank you, Jesus, for this yummy food. Please help it nourish my body.”
Brushing Teeth: While brushing teeth, teach your child a prayer like the Our Father or a church song that they can recite or sing for a minute.
Short Prayer: “Lord, help me smile today, and help me speak happy and kind words.”
Putting on Shoes: As your child puts on their shoes, share that God has a good plan for everyone. God wants us to be close to Him so we can walk with Him on the path He’s calling us to.
Short Prayer: “Jesus, thank You for these shoes. Help me stay close to You so I can follow in Your footsteps.”
Intentional Playtime: If there’s extra time in the morning—whether you’re getting another child ready or finishing up yourself—use this time for intentional play. This could look different for each family. Maybe your child plays “Mass,” sings a favorite Mass song, flips through a picture Bible, or watches you as you get ready and go through the same prayers you practiced with them. It’s important to help them use this time to continue preparing for Mass, staying in a space of prayer.
Drive to Church: On the way to church, talk with your child about what they want to pray for at Mass today, and share what you’ll be praying for, too. Play church music your child enjoys, or introduce them to a new song you like, and learn the lyrics together.
Preparing preschoolers for Mass can be a joyful experience, by weaving small prayers and faith-filled conversations into your morning routine, you can help your child feel excited and ready, both spiritually and physically, for a meaningful day at Mass. These simple steps allow your child to experience God’s love and grace, setting the tone for a peaceful and meaningful Sunday. Remember, it’s the little moments that help plant the seeds of faith in their hearts.