Children may struggle to sit still and pay attention, but there are several things that parents can do to make the experience more enjoyable for their little ones.
In this blog post, we’ll share ten tips for making attending Mass more enjoyable for children.
Prepare them beforehand
One of the most important things you can do is to prepare your children beforehand. Talk to them about what to expect during Mass, and what their role is in the service. Explain the different parts of the Mass and their significance, and let them know that they will be expected to participate.
Attend family-friendly Masses
Many parishes offer family-friendly Masses that are geared towards children. These Masses often have more music, less formal liturgy, and homilies that are more engaging for children. Check with your parish to see if they offer such services.
Bring quiet activities
Bring quiet activities to keep your children occupied during the service. Coloring books, religious-themed activity books, or small toys can be a great way to keep them engaged without distracting others.
Sit up front
Sitting up front can be a great way to keep your children engaged in the service. They’ll be able to see what’s going on and feel more connected to the Mass.
Explain what’s happening
Explain what’s happening during the Mass as it happens. Point out the different parts of the liturgy and their significance. This can help your children to feel more involved and connected to the service.
Participate in the music
Encourage your children to participate in the music. Singing along with the hymns can be a great way to keep them engaged and involved in the service.
Take breaks as needed
If your children are struggling to sit still, take breaks as needed. Go for a walk outside or to the bathroom. This can help to break up the service and keep your children from getting too antsy.
Make it a family event
Make attending Mass a family event. Talk about the service afterward, and what your children enjoyed about it. This can help to create positive memories and make attending Mass something that your children look forward to.
Encourage questions
Encourage your children to ask questions about the Mass. This can help them to better understand what’s going on and feel more connected to the service.
Be patient
Finally, be patient. Attending Mass with children can be challenging, but it’s important to remember that it’s a learning experience for them. Stay positive and encouraging, and remember that every Mass is an opportunity to deepen your family’s faith.
Attending Mass with children can be a challenge, but it can also be a rewarding experience.
By following these ten tips, you can make attending Mass more enjoyable for your little ones, and help them to deepen their faith and connection to the Church.