Evening is when a child settles down and listens best. A bedtime prayer for children, said together with a parent, gives them a sense of safety and gently teaches them to talk with God. Below you will find very short prayers for different ages and a small evening ritual.
Why pray together in the evening
Children learn prayer by seeing it, not by hearing explanations. A few words said every evening, with the light off and a parent's hand on their head, stay with them for life. The evening prayer also helps them close the day: to give thanks, to ask forgiveness and to fall asleep without fear.
Short prayers for little ones (ages 3–6)
Simple texts, written by us, not liturgical texts:
Lord, thank You for today. Watch over Mum, Dad and me. Amen.
My little guardian angel, stay by me while I sleep and chase away bad dreams. Amen.
The best-known childhood prayer is the one to the guardian angel; the version for older children is in our article on the Guardian Angel prayer.
Evening prayer for older children (ages 7–12)
Lord Jesus, thank You for everything good today. Forgive me where I did wrong, at school or at home. Help me tomorrow to be kind and brave. Protect my family, my friends and all who are sick. Give me a peaceful sleep. Amen.
At this age children can also learn the Lord's Prayer. The text and its meaning are explained simply in our article on the Lord's Prayer.
A parent's prayer at the child's bedside
Lord, I entrust to You the sleep of my child, (name). Keep them from fears and bad dreams, rest their body and soul, and wake them tomorrow healthy and joyful. Amen.
Many parents make the sign of the cross on their child's forehead before sleep. It is a small gesture, but children wait for it and remember it.
A five-minute evening ritual
- Quiet. Screens go off at least half an hour before.
- Thanks. Ask: “What shall we thank God for today?”
- Forgiveness. If there was a quarrel, make peace before praying.
- The prayer. One of those above, said together.
- The blessing. The sign of the cross and “Good night, may the Lord keep you.”
For a calm atmosphere in the room you can diffuse a few drops of essential oils suitable for children, in small amounts and with ventilation. For parents' prayers, see also our article on prayer for children.
Frequently asked questions
What prayer does a child say at night?
The simplest: the guardian angel prayer or a few words of thanks and protection for the family. As they grow, they can add the Lord's Prayer.
From what age can a child pray?
From the moment they start talking. Until then, the parent prays aloud beside them and the child listens and learns the rhythm.
What if my child has nightmares?
Comfort them, say a short prayer of protection together and leave a dim light on. If nightmares are frequent or very frightening, talk to your paediatrician as well.
