MFP 383: How Play Time Shapes Prayer Time

MFP 383: How Play Time Shapes Prayer Time

From Messy Family Podcast : Catholic Conversations on Marriage and Family by Mike and Alicia Hernon : Catholic Marriage Parent and Family

May 25, 2026 · 53 min

About this episode

This episode explores the connection between play and prayer, emphasizing how play builds trust and shapes children's faith.

For more information about the Play + Pray Challenge visit our website: https://messyfamilyproject.org/challenge/ If you want to pray with your kids, you need to play with them Summary If you want your kids to pray with you, it starts long before bedtime prayers. It starts with how you play. In this episode, we explore the surprising connection between play and prayer, and why the time that can feel the most "unproductive" is actually doing the deepest work. We talk about how play builds trust, teaches emotional strength, and shapes how your children will relate to God. You'll also hear why dads matter so much in play, how play changes as kids grow, and what gets in the way for most families. This is a practical, honest look at how simple moments of connection can shape your child's faith for years to come. Key Takeaways Play builds the relationship that prayer depends on If your kids don't feel connected to you, they won't naturally open up to God. Play creates that trust. Play teaches what prayer requires Through play, kids learn trust, safety, joy, and connection. Those are the same muscles they use in prayer. What looks unproductive is actually foundational Play can feel like…

People in this episode

Hosts: Mike Hernon, Alicia Hernon

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Organizations: Messy Family Project

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