“These commandments that I give you today are to be on your hearts. Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up.” – Deuteronomy 6:6-7
Let’s be honest: parenting can feel like a whirlwind. Between homework meltdowns, endless snack requests, and trying to get everyone to church on time, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed.
Then we hear it: “Make sure you’re building a Christ-centered home!”
But what does that really look like?
Here’s the good news faith doesn’t have to be another item on your already full to-do list. It’s about weaving Jesus into the everyday, messy, beautiful moments of family life.
At Fidelis Academy, we’re passionate about partnering with parents as you disciple your children. Here are 5 simple, realistic ways to make faith a natural part of your family rhythm.
1. Start With Mealtimes – Pray and Share One Gratitude Daily
You don’t need a three-course Bible study at dinner. Just start small.
Make it a habit to pray before meals, they are taught to pray at school in this manner. Yes, even if dinner is a drive-thru run after soccer practice. Thank God for the food, for each other, and for His goodness.
Then, go around the table or the car and share one thing each person is grateful for. Gratitude helps kids see God’s hand in their everyday lives.
It doesn’t have to be profound. If your child says, “I’m thankful for chicken nuggets,” smile and thank God with them. He delights in grateful hearts even for nuggets.
2. Car Conversations – Turn Rides Into Mini Devotionals
Car rides are prime time for planting seeds of faith.
Try this:
- Read or listen to a short Bible verse and ask your kids what they think it means.
- Play worship music or Bible story podcasts.
- Ask, “Where did you see God today?”
No need for long sermons. Simple, honest conversations can make a big difference.
3. Bedtime Blessings – Speak Scripture Over Your Child
Bedtime is a sacred window when hearts are soft.
Use this time to pray over your child. Speak scripture verses about God’s love, protection, and purpose. One favorite is Numbers 6:24-26:
“The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make his face shine on you and be gracious to you; the Lord turn his face toward you and give you peace.”
These words will echo in their hearts long after the lights go out.
4. Family Worship Moments – Even 10 Minutes on Sunday Evenings
Family worship doesn’t need to be complicated. Try this:
Sing a worship song together (off-key is perfectly fine!)
Read a short scripture passage.
Pray for each other and for others in your community.
Even ten minutes of worship can teach your children that following Jesus is part of everyday life, not just Sunday mornings.
5. Parent Prayer Partnership – Pray Together Once a Week
Parenting is a team sport, and nothing strengthens a team like prayer.
Set aside time to pray together as parents over your kids, your marriage, and your home. It could be five minutes after the kids are asleep, but those prayers are powerful.
When your children see you prioritizing prayer, they’ll learn that faith is worth their time, too.
You’re Doing Better Than You Think
Parenting isn’t about perfection it’s about presence. You’re planting seeds of faith that will bear fruit in God’s perfect timing.
At Fidelis Academy, we see you. We see your prayers, your late nights, your desire to raise children who love Jesus. And we’re here to cheer you on.
Family Discussion Questions
Discuss these as a family this week:
- What’s your favorite time of day to talk with God? Why?
- How can we make mealtime or bedtime a special time for God in our house? (Deuteronomy 6:6-7)
- What’s one thing we could do as a family this week to show God’s love to someone else?
- Why do you think God wants families to pray and read His word together?
- If you could plan one family worship night, what would it look like?
Take the Next Step
We’ve created a free “Faith at Home Checklist” to help you get started. Small steps lead to big spiritual growth.
At Fidelis Academy, we’re honored to walk alongside families like yours as you raise children who love God and love others.