Children experience a wide range of emotions each day—joy, fear, wonder, and even stress. Centering prayers help them slow down, breathe deeply, and connect with God in those moments. These simple prayers are designed to calm young hearts and help children feel God’s loving presence wherever they are.
Whether it’s the start of a busy school day or a quiet moment before bed, these prayers create space for peace, gratitude, and guidance. They’re short, easy to remember, and speak directly to a child’s heart—offering a gentle way to grow in faith and trust.
Simple Centering Prayers for Children
#1. A Centering Prayer for Feeling Safe
Dear God,
Sometimes I feel scared, and I don’t know what to do.
Please wrap Your arms around me and help me feel safe.
Remind me that You are always with me, even when I’m afraid.
When my heart beats fast or my thoughts get loud,
help me take a deep breath and remember Your love.
You are my protector, and You never leave me alone.
Even when it’s dark or quiet, I know You are near.
Thank You for keeping me safe and close to You.
Amen.
#2. A Centering Prayer for Starting the Day
Dear Lord,
Thank You for this brand-new day.
Help me wake up with joy and a happy heart.
Give me energy to learn, to play, and to be kind.
Be with me in every step I take today.
Help me remember that You are near, even when I’m busy or things feel hard.
Let my words be full of love and my actions gentle and good.
Guide my choices and fill my day with peace.
Thank You for loving me from morning till night.
Amen.
#3. A Centering Prayer for When Things Feel Hard
Heavenly Father,
Sometimes things are really hard and I don’t know what to do.
When I feel like giving up, help me stay strong.
Please give me courage to keep going and trust You.
Remind me that You are bigger than my problems.
Help me breathe slowly and know You’re right here with me.
Even if I cry or feel angry, help me remember I am never alone.
I don’t have to fix everything because You are helping me.
Thank You for always being on my side.
Amen.
#4. A Centering Prayer for Calming Down
Dear God,
Right now, I feel upset and I need Your help.
Please calm my heart and help me slow down.
Let my thoughts settle and my body rest.
Remind me to breathe in peace and breathe out worry.
When my mind is full or my feelings feel too big,
help me find Your quiet voice inside me.
You are my safe place, even when I feel stormy.
Thank You for helping me feel calm and still.
Amen.
#5. A Centering Prayer for Bedtime Peace
Dear Lord,
As the day ends, I come to You with a quiet heart.
Thank You for all the good things I had today.
Help me let go of worries and rest in Your love.
Keep me safe through the night and give me sweet dreams.
Take away my fears and fill my heart with peace.
Let Your love wrap around me like a soft blanket.
I know You are watching over me while I sleep.
Thank You for Your never-ending care.
Amen.
#6. A Centering Prayer for Thankfulness
Heavenly Father,
Thank You for all the blessings in my life.
Thank You for my family, my friends, and my home.
Thank You for the little things, like sunshine, songs, and smiles.
Help me see Your goodness every day.
Even when things don’t go my way, help me be thankful.
Let my heart always notice the good and speak kind words.
You give me so much, and I am grateful for Your love.
Thank You for caring for me every day.
Amen.
#7. A Centering Prayer for Listening to God
Dear God,
Sometimes I forget to stop and listen.
Help me quiet my heart so I can hear You.
Speak to me in small whispers or gentle thoughts.
Show me what You want me to do today.
Even if I don’t understand right away, help me trust that You are guiding me.
Let Your words fill my heart and help me grow in love.
Thank You for always speaking to my heart with kindness.
Amen.
#8. A Centering Prayer for School Mornings
Dear Lord,
As I get ready for school, please go with me.
Help me be brave, kind, and ready to learn.
When I feel nervous or unsure, remind me that You are by my side.
Be in my classroom, in my words, and in my actions.
Help me be a good friend and a helpful classmate.
Let my mind be focused and my heart full of joy.
Thank You for giving me a new day to grow and shine.
Amen.
#9. A Centering Prayer for Quiet Moments
Heavenly Father,
Sometimes I just want to sit and be still with You.
Thank You for quiet moments where I can feel peace.
Help me enjoy the silence and know You are near.
Fill my heart with calm, not noise or worry.
Let Your presence be like a soft hug around me.
Even when I have nothing to say, You hear me.
Thank You for being with me, even when I say nothing.
Amen.
#10. A Centering Prayer for Big Feelings
Dear God,
Sometimes my feelings feel way too big.
When I’m really mad, sad, or excited, help me bring those feelings to You.
Show me how to handle them with care and love.
Help me take a deep breath and trust You to guide me.
You understand every feeling in my heart.
Even when I don’t have words, You know what I mean.
Thank You for loving me no matter what I feel.
Amen.
Closing Thoughts
Centering prayers help children feel grounded, calm, and connected to God in every part of their day. Whether they are starting the morning, facing big emotions, or winding down at night, these simple prayers offer a safe space for reflection and peace. Teaching kids to pause, breathe, and talk to God builds a habit of faith that can last a lifetime. These prayers remind them they are never alone and that God is always listening. Encourage your child to revisit these prayers whenever they need comfort, courage, or a quiet moment with God. His love is always near.