How to Get a Child Interested in Going to Church

It̵7;s common for children to distance themselves from church activities and attendance as adolescence begins, according to the Brigham Young University website. If your child̵7;s enthusiasm wanes, you might need to encourage interest with specific methods that help your child feel like a valued and important part of your worship activities. While forcing attendance at church is likely to alienate a reluctant child from religious activity even more, positive reinforcement might lead to a bona fide interest in attending services.

Instructions

    • 1

      Accept your child̵7;s reticence about church without applying undue pressure for him to attend. Issue an invitation every week in a pleasant and relaxed manner to communicate to your child that he̵7;s welcome and you̵7;d like him to join you.

    • 2

      Share your faith with your child to communicate its importance to you. If your child shows an interest, talk about how you came to believe in God and started attending church. Sharing personal testimony, including how your faith helps and guides you through life, may help motivate your child.

    • 3

      Strive to provide a positive example of faith for your child to see. Let your child see you striving to live according to God̵7;s will for you, seeking Him and His ways, studying the Bible and taking time to pray daily.

    • 4

      Participate in church activities and projects. Attend Bible studies, church socials, prayer meetings and serve in service projects. As you participate in these activities, issue standing invitations to your child to attend with you, if she desires.

    • 5

      Encourage your child to find a niche in the church if it interests him. Children can grow in a variety of different areas of service and discipleship, advises Jim Burns, author and president of HomeWord, a center for youth and family. For example, children can participate in youth ministry, work groups, outreach projects and tutoring services, for example. Sometimes, children thrive and become interested when they feel useful and important.

    • 6

      Remain patient, even though it might seem like no changes are occurring with your child̵7;s interest level. This process can take time as a child observes activities, situations and the church environment. As long as you keep your encouragement relaxed and positive, your child may develop enough interested to attend church with you.

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