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Worship: Young children are learning family rhythms and routines. We brush our teeth before dad puts us to bed; we buckle our seatbelts before mom starts driving. These routines help form a child until they become second nature. Going to worship on Sunday mornings is one such routine. It may take time to get the hang of it, just like figuring out how to buckle the seatbelt securely. It might come with some challenges, like wanting to read one more story before bed. But ultimately, establishing a family routine of regular time in worship sets children up for a life of faith with the family of God. It also models that faith is important to mom and dad; therefore, it should also be important to children. A B C s and Words of Praise 1 When a child is young, teachers say that "more is caught that taught." While deciphering the sounds of language, children are already learning about life through what they experience and observe. It's why my young nephew says, "Uh-oh," when he drops his toy. And why my goddaughter boldly recites the Lord's Prayer, even though she doesn't know what the word hallowed means. Young children mimic facial expressions and match sounds, mirroring our goofy grins and loudly repeating the same words spoken at the dinner table. As they're learning to sing their ABCs, it's a critical time to also teach them to sing songs of praise. As they learn to say "grandma" and "grandpa," they can also learn to say "Jesus loves me." Here are three milestones that can intentionally con- nect young children to their life in Jesus and the family of God: BY AMY BIRD 8 Lutheran Life

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