Faith traditions with the grandkids.

Faith is caught at home

Children learn what matters by watching what we do every day: how we talk, how we treat people, and whether we turn to God when things are good and when they are hard.

“And these words, which I command thee this day, shall be in thine heart: And thou shalt teach them diligently unto thy children, and shalt talk of them when thou sittest in thine house, and when thou walkest by the way, and when thou liest down, and when thou risest up.”Deuteronomy 6:6–7 (KJV)

That is good news for grandparents. You do not need a curriculum. You need time together, and a willingness to talk about God naturally.

Little traditions with big meaning

• A bedtime blessing. Say the same blessing over them each night they stay with you, until they can say it with you.
• A kindness Advent. Each day in December, open a small card with one way to help someone: draw a picture for a neighbor, donate a toy, help clear the table.
• Read the Christmas story aloud. Read Luke 2 together on Christmas Eve, before the presents. Let the youngest place baby Jesus in the nativity.
• A thankful jar. Keep a jar and slips of paper at your house. Every visit, each grandchild adds one thing they are thankful to God for.
• Make something for someone. Bake cookies or make cards together, then deliver them to someone who could use a little love.
• Pray for them by name, and tell them you do. It is one of the most powerful things a grandparent can give.

“Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.”Luke 2:10–11 (KJV)

A blessing to say over them

“The LORD bless thee, and keep thee: The LORD make his face shine upon thee, and be gracious unto thee: The LORD lift up his countenance upon thee, and give thee peace.”Numbers 6:24–26 (KJV)