Many times, families feel so busy, with little time to slow down and rest. Practicing Sabbath together can be a great way to reconnect, recharge, and refocus on what truly matters.

However, helping children embrace the Sabbath requires intentionality and creativity. Here are some simple ways to make the Sabbath a meaningful and enjoyable experience for everyone.

Prepare Ahead of Time

One of the best ways to set your family up for a successful Sabbath is organizing and preparing ahead of time. Plan meals, finish household chores, and set aside any work-related tasks.

Get kids and grandkids involved by letting them help with prepping meals, choosing a special Sabbath outfit or setting up a cozy area for resting. When children take part in the preparation, they feel a sense of excitement and ownership.

Create Special Sabbath Traditions 

Children love routines and traditions, and having a special Sabbath tradition can make the day feel special and exciting.

This could be something as simple as lighting candles, making a favorite Sabbath snack or breakfast, or starting the day with a song. Consider making a file or box filled with books, coloring pages, or quiet activities that are only used on the Sabbath to create anticipation and a sense of sacred time.

Unplug from Technology

With screens dominating so much of daily life, Sabbath is a great opportunity for everyone to take a break from technology. Instead of passive screen time, encourage kids to engage in creative play. This could include:

• Playing board games
• Storytelling
• Building with blocks
• Crafting

Making Sabbath fun and interactive helps children associate the day with happiness rather than restriction.

Explore and Appreciate Nature

One of the best ways to slow down and appreciate God’s creation is by spending time outside. Whether it’s a short walk in the neighborhood, a picnic in the park, or simply sitting on the porch and watching the sunset, nature has a way of bringing peace and perspective.

Encourage kids to explore, collect leaves or rocks, and observe birds or insects. You can also integrate simple lessons about God’s creation through these experiences.

Practice Gratitude and Storytelling

Sabbath is a time to pause and reflect on the blessings of the week. Set aside a moment as a family to share things for which you are grateful. This could be during a meal, before bedtime, or as part of a simple prayer time.

Encourage kids to participate by drawing pictures of things they are thankful for, writing in a gratitude/thankful journal, or sharing stories about their favorite moments from the week. Storytelling is a wonderful way to help children engage with faith and family values in a personal way.

Making Sabbath Meaningful for Children

Observing the Sabbath with children does not have to be complicated or stressful! By preparing ahead, creating child-friendly traditions, unplugging from distractions, enjoying nature, and practicing gratitude, you can cultivate a Sabbath experience that is both meaningful and fun for the entire family.

Small, intentional changes can make a big difference in helping children embrace the Sabbath as a special, holy, and joyful time that they look forward to each week.

Additional Blog Posts About Rest and the Sabbath:

• What Happens When You Don't Rest: The Cost of Spiritual Burnout
  
• God Rested So Why Can't We?

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