Bedtime Prayer for Children
Classic Catholic night prayers for children — the 'Now I lay me down to sleep,' the tender Shepherd poem, and the Guardian Angel prayer. Parents may make the Sign of the Cross on their child's forehead after.
The Bedtime Prayer for Children gathers three classic Catholic night prayers: Now I lay me down to sleep, the tender Shepherd poem and the Guardian Angel prayer. These simple words have settled generations of children, and they help little ones feel safe. Parents may trace the sign of the cross on the child's forehead after. A short prayer at the end of the day becomes one of the most treasured memories of childhood. Keep the routine short and predictable, because children love repetition. You may add a thank-you list for the day, or a blessing for family members by name. If a child is afraid of the dark, the Guardian Angel prayer is especially comforting.
Pray this prayer, and save your favourites, in the Sacred Novenas app
Open in the app App StoreGoogle PlayBedtime Prayer for Children
Now I lay me down to sleep,
I pray the Lord my soul to keep.
May angels watch me through the night,
and wake me with the morning light.
Amen.
~~~
Jesus, tender Shepherd, hear me,
bless Thy little lamb tonight.
Through the darkness be Thou near me,
keep me safe till morning light.
All this day Thy hand has led me,
and I thank Thee for Thy care.
Thou hast warmed me, clothed, and fed me —
listen to my evening prayer.
Let my sins be all forgiven;
bless the friends I love so well.
Take us all at last to heaven,
happy there with Thee to dwell.
Amen.
~~~
Angel of God, my guardian dear,
to whom God's love entrusts me here,
ever this night be at my side,
to light and guard, to rule and guide.
Amen.
(Parents may make the Sign of the Cross on their child's forehead and say: "May God bless you and keep you safe tonight.")
Frequently asked questions
When should I pray the Bedtime Prayer for Children?
Pray it just before lights out, every night.
How do I pray the Bedtime Prayer for Children?
Kneel or sit by the bed, say the prayers together, and trace a cross on the child's forehead.
Who is the Bedtime Prayer for Children for?
Parents, grandparents, godparents and young children.
Pray this prayer, and save your favourites, in the Sacred Novenas app
Open in the app App StoreGoogle Play