12 Back to School Prayers Every Kid Needs
There’s something about starting a new school year that feels big, for them and also for us. It doesn’t matter if it’s their first day or they’ve done this before. I think we all experience the excitement and a little bit of fear at the same time.
Maybe your child is starting at a brand new school, or maybe it’s just a new classroom with new faces. Honestly, every kid handles these feelings differently, but deep down, there’s often the same quiet question: Will I fit in? Will people like me?
That’s why I love using prayer to start the school year. I put together these 12 back to school prayers to help your kid feel like a total champ, grounded, confident, and loved, and not just walking into school alone.
As parents, we can’t just walk behind them into the classroom, as much as we wish we could (wouldn’t that be something?). But what we can do is load them up with a bit of confidence and remind them they’re not walking in there alone. Sometimes all it takes is a quick “You got this!” before you drop them off.
1. A Prayer for the First Day of School
Dear God,
Today is a new day. Please calm my nerves and help me feel brave. Walk beside me as I meet new faces and learn new things. Thank You for always being right here with me, I’m never alone…
“Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid… for the Lord your God goes with you.” – Deuteronomy 31:6
2. A Prayer for Making Friends
Dear God,
Thank You for the friends I already have and the new ones I’ll meet. Help me to listen, to share, and to treat others with kindness. When someone feels alone, show me how to be the one who reaches out. Fill my heart with love so I can be a true friend to others.
“Two are better than one… If either of them falls down, one can help the other up.” – Ecclesiastes 4:9–10
3. A Prayer for Focus and Learning
Dear God,
Help my mind stay clear and focused today. Teach me new things today and help me try my best, even when it’s hard. Thank You for helping me grow a little more each day.
“Let the wise listen and add to their learning.” – Proverbs 1:5
4. A Prayer for Confidence
Heavenly Father,
Sometimes I feel unsure of myself. Please remind me that I am strong, capable, and loved. Help me walk with confidence to be myself, knowing You are always right with me.
“For the Lord will be your confidence and will keep your foot from being caught.” – Proverbs 3:26
5. A Prayer for Kindness
Dear Jesus,
Fill my heart with kindness. Help me use kind words, show gentle actions, and be helpful when I can.
“Be kind and compassionate to one another.” – Ephesians 4:32
6. A Prayer for Patience
Dear God,
Sometimes I get frustrated or want things to go faster. Please help me slow down, breathe deep, and remember that it’s okay to wait and try again.
“Love is patient, love is kind.” – 1 Corinthians 13:4
7. A Prayer for Safety
Dear Lord,
Keep me safe today. Watch over my school, my teachers, my friends, and everyone I pass in the halls. Thank You for being my protector.
“The Lord will keep you from all harm -He will watch over your life.” – Psalm 121:7
8. A Prayer for When I Feel Left Out
Dear God,
Sometimes I feel lonely or left out. When that happens, please remind me that I am never alone because You’re always with me.
“The Lord is close to the brokenhearted.” – Psalm 34:18
9. A Prayer for Gratitude
Dear God,
Thank You for my school, my teachers, and every chance I have to grow and learn. Help me notice the good things and be thankful.
“Give thanks in all circumstances.” – 1 Thessalonians 5:18
10. A Prayer for Honesty
Dear Lord,
Help me to be truthful in my words and actions. Even when it’s hard, help me choose what’s right and honest.
“The Lord delights in people who are trustworthy.” – Proverbs 12:22
11. A Prayer for Trying Again
Dear God,
When I mess up or something goes wrong, help me not to give up. Remind me that I can always try again with Your help.
“Though the righteous fall seven times, they rise again.” – Proverbs 24:16
12. A Prayer for Peaceful Sleep Before School Days
God,
Thank You for today. As I rest tonight, fill my mind with peace and my heart with joy. Help me sleep well so I can wake up ready for tomorrow.
“In peace I will lie down and sleep, for You alone, Lord, make me dwell in safety.” – Psalm 4:8
