Jesus openly included children. On one occasion, as he taught his disciples he put his arm around a child and told the disciples that welcoming a child was much like welcoming him (Mark 9:36-37). The children learned by participating and asking questions.

Today's children learn in much the same way. Any qualified teacher will tell you that children learn best as they experience life. There is no better way we can help our children grow in their relationship with God than through worship. Furthermore, it is important to involve children in worship during the early years. If they learn songs and hymns, the creeds and prayers, and understand the various parts of worship, they will most likely continue to appreciate worship later on in life.

Written for parents of children of all ages, this parenting study has suggestions for explaining worship practices and symbols to nonreaders, beginning readers, and older elementary-aged youth. There is even an excellent guide for parents to help them explain what the words of the Lord's Prayer mean to younger children. And, as always, there are reflection questions for parents and discussion questions for parenting groups.