Ideas for parents – How to help your children observe Lent

Method 2 - Teaching Lenten Practices

02-11-2021Lent

Explain Fasting

During Lent, Christians “fast” in various ways to connect with and honor Jesus, who fasted for forty days in the desert. Note that during Lent, “fasting” may not always involve food. There are other ways to practice sacrifice and strive for closeness with God. You don’t have to expect your child to make a huge, symbolic sacrifice for forty days. But you can certainly teach the concept and encourage your child to try it, perhaps by giving up sweets or video games.

This period of fasting is also a good time to show solidarity with people who do not have enough food. Take your child with you to donate to a food bank or serve meals at a shelter.

For Roman Catholic children, the rules for fasting (before age 18) and meat abstinence (before age 14) typically don’t apply, but you, as the parent, may practice that with your children.

Encourage Repentance

Teach your child that repenting for their sins will lead to a closer relationship with God. They may not understand the value of seeking forgiveness at first. However, by encouraging your child to admit to and apologize for their mischief (fighting with another child, saying bad words, sneaking candy), you can help them grow into a more mature person.

Note how it usually feels better to “come clean” after withholding the truth or telling lies to cover up lies. This same feeling of relief and connection can happen when you admit your failings to God and ask for forgiveness.

Teach Your Child about the Significance of Water

Water is fundamental to human life, but it also represents baptism and the washing away of sin. Place a symbol, such as a bottle of water, in your home, and encourage your child to think and talk about its importance. Point out that, just as plain water can cleanse the body, Jesus is the “living water” that can cleanse the soul. 

Emphasize keeping a close relationship with God

Christians’ eternal lives depend on what they believe and do now. The Lord inspires people to have faith, and expects them to be good to themselves and others. It’s easy to forget about that, but Lent serves as a reminder. Suggest that your child think about Lent as a way to get closer to God. Point out that Jesus used his forty days to get away from distractions and commune with God. They too can benefit from Lent by pushing aside at least some of the distractions of the world.

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