Psychiatrist’s alternative to night-time prayers for children

Raising children with no faith in God must be extremely difficult.  It often requires finding “godless” substitutes for simple practices that have been sweet parts of growing up for kids for centuries.  There are even apps for it.  Of course, we could just take the time to pray, nightly, with our children.  KS

 

Parents oftentimes ask me, “What one thing can I do with my child to help him or her?” and I oftentimes reply, “Add a mindfulness practice into your daily life.” One simple mindfulness practice done consistently with your children can help them calm and connect to their inner peace. The place within that isn’t chaotic and troubled by the latest text, bully at school or mean comment from their sibling. So whether it’s a gratitude bedtime practice, deep breathing (one hand on stomach, one on heart) or use of mindfulness apps, most children can learn to pay attention and bring themselves back to a calm place even in the midst of a challenge.   More . . .