Faith Meets Child Psychology

I’ve read (and continue to read) a lot about developmental milestones, discipline, and child psychology in general. Just about every book I’ve read (and several articles) have mentioned the need for quiet time before bed. Heck, adults need it, too! It’s especially important for kids, though, and the sanity of their parents, because it can make the difference between a peaceful or protested bedtime routine.

As a devout Catholic, I’m also interested in raising my kids according the the Faith. So, tonight I tried something that I hope becomes part of our daily routine. I read evening prayer from the Liturgy of the Hours to Alex (Joel was getting a bath.). He mostly didn’t pay attention, but he either sat or played quietly next to me on the couch. He did take interest in my singing, though. I sang however many verses of “O Come, O Come, Emmanuel” were printed (6, I think) for the opening hymn.

I figured the start of a new liturgical year was a good time to start something like this. Call it a new year resolution. 😉

P.S. For those who don’t know, I’ve tried and failed to get into the regular habit of praying the Liturgy of the Hours more times than most smokers have tried to quit. 😉