Bedtime Prayer for Children: Now I Lay Me Down to Sleep
The classic children's prayer with a gentle blessing to pray together
Morning Prayer editorial team · Updated: November 2026
Kneel or sit by the bed, hold a small hand, and pray these words together. The first verse is the traditional rhyme generations of children have learned; the rest is a blessing for parents to pray over their child.
Let us pray
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.
Dear God, thank You for today. Thank You for the fun we had, for the food we ate, for our friends, and for our family. Thank You for the sun and the moon and the stars You hung in the sky.
I am sorry for the times I was unkind or did not listen. Please forgive me and help me do better tomorrow. Help me to be brave, to share, and to tell the truth.
Please bless Mommy and Daddy, my brothers and sisters, my grandparents, and everyone I love. Bless the children who are sick or scared tonight. Bless the people who have no home. Keep us all safe.
Jesus, You love children very much. You said we could come close to You. I am coming close to You now. Stay with me while I sleep and be with me when I wake up.
God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit, bless this child tonight. Fill this room with Your peace and these dreams with Your light. Let this little one know, deep inside, that they are loved by You forever. Amen.
Blessing
May God bless you and keep you, little one, tonight and always.
How to pray this prayer
- Find a quiet moment and breathe slowly.
- Read the prayer aloud or in your heart.
- Add your own intention before the Amen.
Frequently asked questions
At what age can children start saying bedtime prayers?
As soon as they can repeat a few words, around age two or three. Toddlers learn by hearing you pray; by four or five most children can say the short rhyme themselves.
Is the line about dying in the traditional prayer appropriate?
Many families prefer the gentler version used here, which asks angels to watch through the night. It keeps the rhyme and rhythm while focusing on God's loving protection.
How do I keep bedtime prayer from feeling like a chore?
Keep it short, let the child add their own thank-yous, and be consistent. Children treasure the routine; the closeness with you is part of how they experience God's love.
People also pray
Christmas prayer for Christmas Eve and Christmas Day
Welcoming the Child Jesus and blessing the family table
Read more →Easter prayer: Christ is risen, alleluia
Joy in the Resurrection, renewal of Baptism, and a blessing for the Easter table
Read more →Novena to St Joseph for work, family, and a holy death
Nine days of prayer to the guardian of the Holy Family, with daily intentions
Read more →Morning prayer for family before the day begins
A short, powerful prayer placing every member of the household under God's care
Read more →Sunday prayer for the whole of the Lord's Day
From morning bells to Sunday evening: rest, worship, family, and peace
Read more →Thanksgiving prayer for family at the holiday table
Gratitude for every generation, for those absent, and for a year lived together
Read more →Do you need prayer?
Share your intention and our community will pray for you.