Explain to your children why it’s important to pray. As Rick Osborne writes in his book Teaching Your Child How to Pray, a good reason to give preschoolers is: “God loves you and wants you to pray and trust Him so that He can show you His love and help you have a great life.” Kids need to know they can pray to God anytime, because He’s always there for them.

Share family prayer requests with your kids. A great way to train children to think of others is through prayer. Of course, certain requests may need to be screened (financial troubles, dying relatives, etc.). But praying for your brother-in-law who’s looking for a job or the safety of your niece who’s going off to college can teach your children to remember others when they talk to God.

Make it easy. Preschoolers have an amazing ability to memorize. Many children learn the “Lord’s Prayer” in Sunday school. And they quickly pick up table graces at mealtime.

Be sure your children know prayer is simply talking to God about what’s on their minds. They don’t have to use special words or try to sound like a grown-up. God desires simple and honest prayers from the heart. Encourage your kids to share their successes with God: “I just got a new doll.” Kids can also come to the Lord when things don’t go well: “Help my skinned knee to get better fast.”

Keeping a prayer journal can be a fun way to track God’s working in your child’s life. Write down in a small notebook what your child prays about.

Check back every once in a while to see how God answers your child’s prayers. This will show your kids that God is active in their lives and could help teach them patience. Because, as you know, sometimes God says yes, sometimes He answers no and other times you have to wait on His timing.