Ideas for parents – How to help your children observe Lent
Lent begins with Ash Wednesday, which, for many believers, includes a symbolic drawing of a cross with ashes on the forehead. The ashes are meant to remind everyone of human mortality (“remember that you are dust, and to dust you shall return”), but it’s not necessary to push this idea too forcefully on young children. Be matter-of-fact about the tradition - if it helps, talk less about death and more about the cross and it’s meaning.
Tell your child that Lent lasts for forty days because that’s how long Jesus wandered in the desert, fasting, while he resisted Satan’s temptations. Explain that your child and your family have an opportunity, during the forty days of Lent, to be like Jesus. They too can resist temptations and use this time to become closer to God. Lent isn’t simply a “countdown” or something to “get through” - it’s a chance to set aside distractions and focus on your relationship with the Lord.
Your child should understand that the last week before Easter is especially important. Make sure your child knows that this last portion of Lent leads up to the celebration of Easter. Note that Palm Sunday marks Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem to cheering crowds, but that within a few days many of those same people would turn against him. Explain that this shows how quickly any-one can succumb to the temptations of evil and turn away from God. Use Holy (Maundy) Thursday to tell the story of the night before Jesus died, and how he chose to spend his Last Supper with his “family” of disciples celebrating the First Eucharist. Consider making a family meal to correspond with it.
The day that Jesus died is a sad one for Christians, but you can still make it resonate with a child. Discuss the details of the crucifixion in an age-appropriate fashion, and focus on the sacrifice Jesus made for everyone and the glory he knew was to come afterward. Paint eggs together, but point out that you aren’t just making something for the Easter Bunny. Eggs represent the promise of new life, and believers can focus on Jesus’ coming re-birth even as they commemorate his death.
Explain to your child that on Saturday, there is typically no liturgy (except for Easter vigils), so that the faithful can focus completely on Easter. Talk about Easter with joy and enthusiasm, and explain the symbolism of painted eggs and the wonder of resurrection, salvation, and life with God after death. Welcome Easter with joy and spend time together.
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