Tips for Teaching Kids the Faith

We hear frequently that parents are the key to passing on the faith, that we should not rely on CCD or even a Catholic school to really teach the faith. The only way it will "stick" is if we, the parents, are the primary teachers. Here are some ways that we have found effective in passing the faith on to our children:
1. Teach by Example. Our kids constantly seek to emulate us. So if they see us attending Mass, reading faith-oriented books, praying, volunteering at church, they will try to copy us and they will learn by osmosis. Learning by doing is always best.
2. Teach yourself the faith, and share it with your spouse in front of the kids. Take a bible study class. Read a book by or about a famous saint, or a book on apologetics. Listen frequently to Catholic radio or watch catholic radio (EWTN). Then, talk about what you have learned with your spouse. The kids will listen, and they will learn both the things you have learned as well as your commitment to learning the faith.
3. Books. Pauline Books and Media carries a large number of books oriented toward children at various age levels. We have a Pauline bookstore near us, and at every gift giving time (Christmas, Birthday, Easter), we make it a point to get at least one Catholic-oriented gift for each child.
4. Pray together as a family. The kids will learn their prayers and the importance of their prayers if they are performed daily as a family. Good starting points are a blessing before each meal, and an Our Father, Hail Mary, and Glory Be at bedtime. From there you can move on to the Rosary, the Divine Mercy Chaplet, or any other prayer that calls to you. We also have a special family prayer that we say before leaving for school each morning. We keep a copy posted by the door.
5. Provide a running commentary at Mass. OK, don't disrupt the Mass, but make sure the kids understand what is going on at all times. That way they will learn, and they will keep from getting bored. A small example: "Did you hear that bell? That means that the bread he was holding just turned into the body of Jesus. He is holding Jesus up in front of us right now."
6. Hold a family religion class. One night way week, for about 15 or 20 minutes, we have "religion class" at our home. Usually right before bed. Some nights are more "dry" lectures about the Holy Trinity and other key pieces of the faith, but I am trying to make them more engaging and interesting. Last week we took a virtual tour of the Necropolis and St. Peter's tomb on the Vatican website. The kids loved it, learned a lot, and asked many questions.