What can children do for Lent?

These forty days can seem terribly long for children. As parents, we have a responsibility to help our families faithfully observe Lent. Although it may seem difficult at times, the season of Lent offers a particularly significant time to educate children.

As we enter this period of penance, don't underestimate your children! While their offerings should be age appropriate, they can still make real sacrifices. If you are helping your children choose what Lent should do, here are some options to consider.

Prayer

Yes, it is recommended that we Catholics "give up something" for Lent. But is there also something we can add?

A great family tradition is a day of reconciliation and prayer. Take a weekly trip to your parish during the time of confession. Children can bring a spiritual reading or a Bible, their rosary or a prayer diary. Encourage them to take advantage of the Sacrament of Reconciliation. This weekly prayer time can offer many opportunities for your family to get closer together or to learn about devotions such as the Stations of the Cross, the Chaplet of Divine Mercy and more.

Fasting

Children cannot physically deny themselves in the same way as adults, but you can still encourage them to make a real sacrifice. Children are usually eager to respond to a noble challenge.

Can they commit to giving up all drinks except water and milk? Can they give up cookies or candy? Discuss with your child what they are most attached to and suggest making a sacrifice where that means more to them. Limiting the screen time or abandoning it completely is a beautiful and worthy penance.

You can accompany your children by spending more time with them: reading, walking, cooking together. And in any case, show mercy. If your son is struggling to maintain his penance, don't scold them. Ask them why they are having difficulties and discuss if they should review their Lenten plan.

alms

The Church invites us to give alms, be they our "time, talent or treasure". Help your children brainstorm how they can give their resources. Maybe they can volunteer to shovel snow for a neighbor, or write letters to an elderly relative or spend their money on Mass for a special intention. Very young children can choose a toy or book to give to those in need.

For children, almsgiving can be a very tangible way for them to grow spiritually. Teach children to practice their faith and direct their concerns towards others.

Traveling towards Easter

As your family progresses through Lent, try to keep your eyes on Christ. The better we prepare, the richer our celebration of the resurrection will be. Whether we increase our prayers, undertake penance or give alms, the aim is to free ourselves from sin and unite with Jesus. We are never too young to start this process.