It’s that time of the year where all the children in America are starting to go back to school. Even though some parents can be more excited than the child. Kids going back to school, for many parents, it can be a worry. With my daughter starting elementary school, this is a huge change for me and her. Bigger building, more kids, different teachers to get use to, etc. All of this can be overwhelming and can also cause anxiety in children and parents. School is a beautiful place to be. Where kids can learn and discover more, make friends and find themselves. But the other side that, school can also be a nightmare for some children.
School can be a place where kids end up having to deal with bullies, or rude teachers who start the day ready to go. Plus the one thing parents hope they never have to deal with. School shootings. Sad to say but I feel this is a huge worry that many parents put in the back of their minds, because we hope we NEVER have to deal with that situation, but in the United States of America, many parents have.
My daughter may never know, but I pray over her whenever I feel worried. Where she thinks I’m just giving her a long huge, because she needs comfort. I’m honestly praying over her. On those nights when she can’t sleep and needs me to feel safe to fall asleep, I’m praying over her. Now as she goes to school I feel the need to do the same. I’ve come to realize that doing this helps me to relax my own nerves and any anxiety I may feel.
These are my thoughts, but praying over my daughter to me is myself saying, God I need you. I know you have made me strong enough to handle all things thrown at me. However, this right here, I need you to protect with everything you have. Because I truly don’t want to lose myself, by losing a piece of myself.
I know many parents feel this way. This is why it can be hard to let them learn on their own, or leave them at daycares, or school. But for many, it has to be done. You have to allow them to grown, but even parents have to ask for help sometimes when it comes to protecting them. That is when I truly lean on God to help me. Be the shield that is needed to keep our daughter safe. Be the comfort that she needs when she feels worried and mommy and daddy aren’t near. And be ladder that she needs when she has to overcome her own tribulations that she will face.
The world is a beautiful place, but it comes with challenges no matter the age. To give yourself and your child a little peace, start praying over them if you haven’t already.
I have create three simply prayers to start your child’s day and to help parent when they need a little assistance with protection. Also, it doesn’t matter your religion, or beliefs. Feel free to change the wording to fit your beliefs.
Prayer for Protection and Guidance
Dear Heavenly Father, as [child’s name] heads off to school today, we ask for Your loving protection. Surround them with Your angels and keep them safe from harm. Guide their steps and fill their heart with wisdom. Help them to make good choices and to be a light to others. We thank You for the teachers and staff who will care for them. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Prayer for Learning and Growth
Lord, we pray for [child’s name] as they embark on another day of learning. Fill their minds with curiosity and their hearts with a love for knowledge. Help them to focus and pay attention in class. Grant them understanding and the ability to grasp new concepts. We pray for their teachers, that they may be patient and inspiring. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Prayer for Friendship and Kindness
Dear God, we pray that [child’s name] will have a wonderful day filled with kindness and friendship. Help them to be a good friend, to share, and to include others. May they find joy in their interactions with classmates. We pray that they will treat everyone with respect and compassion. Thank You for the gift of friendship. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Now let’s have an amazing 2024 – 2025 school year!