Of course, there is no question that the spiritual benefits far outweigh any practical benefits that children may receive when they attend Mass and that the reason we attend Mass is to be with and worship Our Lord, but we’ve already written about that in a few other posts at Catholic-Link. (If you need tips on how to help your kids at Mass, find them here!)
Today, I’m going to focus on some of the practical lessons that kids learn when they attend Mass. Kindergarten teachers often distribute a list of things that children should be able to do before they start school. The abilities to listen to instructions and sit still for a few minutes at a time are often at the top of that list. Mass is a wonderful environment to learn some of these important skills and put them into practice.
I know that it is not an easy job to bring children, especially toddlers, to Mass, but God provides so many graces and blessings because of our obedience in fulfilling our Sunday obligation that we would be remiss to keep our families from it. Remember, it is well worth your struggle to be there.
“To maintain a joyful family requires much from both the parents and the children. Each member of the family has to become, in a special way, the servant of the others.” – St. John Paul II
Celebrate The Mass With Kids
9 Skills Kids Will Learn At Mass That Will Help Prepare Them For School
1. Children will learn how to sit still for longer than a few minutes.
2. Children will learn the importance of being quiet when someone else is speaking and how to actively listen to instruction.
3. Children will learn to follow directions as we sit, stand, and kneel.
4. Children will learn the beauty of music and will be exposed to many different types of instruments and sounds during the Mass.
5. Children will learn how to memorize words, prayers, and songs, which is a skill that will help them in reading.
6. Children will learn how to greet someone and shake another’s hand during the sign of peace.
7. Children will learn how to respect authority as you model respect for your priest.
8. Children will learn the importance of having a community that supports you and shares in your values.
9. Children will learn the value of setting aside cell phones, video games, and all forms of technology so that they can focus on real-world activities.
“You aspire to great things? Begin with little ones.” – St. Augustine
More Mass Resources For Kids
Is It Possible To Go To Mass With Children? Tips For Taking Your Family To Church
6 Things Children Learn When You Skip Mass On Sundays
Priests Get Real About Noisy Kids At Mass
9 (Non-Spiritual) Skills Kids Learn At Mass That Prepare Them For School
7 Free Resources To Help Kids Understand The Gospel
Best Catholic Gifts For Kids
