Messy Family Project
Perfect for
Parents
HOSTS
Alicia Hernon
Mike Hernon
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Catholic conversations on marriage and family. Offering encouragement, practical advice, and suggestions for parents on this messy adventure.
Parenting is not a clean-cut, simple process for those who like to follow the rules. Family life is messy and unpredictable, but it is the greatest adventure you will ever have. We are Mike and Alicia Hernon, parents of 10 children with a growing number of grandchildren, and we would like to invite you into some of the conversations we have had with each other about marriage, parenting, and Catholic family life. Our hope is that our conversation sparks a dialogue between you and your spouse that leads to greater unity and intentional Christian parenting in your home. Listen in to our podcast and start the conversation as we seek to lead our families to heaven.
Visit us at https:///www/MessyFamilyProject.org for resources, guides, links and show notes.
For more information about the Play + Pray Challenge visit our website: https://messyfamilyproject.org/challenge/
If you want to pray with your kids, you need to play with them
Summary
If you want your kids to pray with you, it starts long before bedtime prayers. It starts with how you play. In this episode, we explore the surprising connection between play and prayer, and why the time that can feel the most “unproductive” is actually doing the deepest work. We talk about how play builds trust, teaches emotional strength, and shapes how your children will relate to God. You’ll also hear why dads matter so much in play, how play changes as kids grow, and what gets in the way for most families. This is a practical, honest look at how simple moments of connection can shape your child’s faith for years to come.
Key Takeaways
Play builds the relationship that prayer depends on If your kids don’t feel connected to you, they won’t naturally open up to God. Play creates that trust.
Play teaches what prayer requires Through play, kids learn trust, safety, joy, and connection. Those are the same muscles they use in prayer.
What looks unproductive is actually foundational Play can feel like wasted time, but it’s doing deep work. The same is true for prayer.
If you don’t choose play, something else will take its place Connection doesn’t happen by accident. It requires time, attention, and intention.
Couple Discussion Questions
Where are we naturally connecting with our kids right now—and where are we missing them?
What gets in the way of us being playful and present?
What is one simple way we could be more intentional about play this week?
