How to Have Quiet Time With a Toddler

Your word I have hidden in my heart, that I might not sin against You. Psalms 119:11

Everyday I begin with my cup of coffee in hand, sitting in my recliner, reading my Bible. This has become one of my favorite times of the day. Everything else is blocked out, and I can concentrate on the Lord.

However, being on Christmas break and staying up entirely too late, I found myself this morning trying to read with Witten crying, and then with him in my lap. Eventually, he decided he needed his tablet for some morning cartoons to which Thomas obliged because living with a two year old is simply survival most days. So I’ve found myself back in my bedroom to drown out the noise. It’s not always easy with little kids, but I know from experience that my time with Jesus is so important. So below are some tips on having quiet time with a toddler.

1. Just do it – I’ve said it before, and I’m saying it again. Just do it. One way that our children learn is by imitating. What could be better than them imitating you spending time with Jesus? Even if they’re throwing a fit in the kitchen, keep seeking the Lord. We all know toddlers normally quit their screaming when they don’t get their way.

2. Read it with them – This is one of the easiest ways to make my quiet time go easier with Witten. I simply read my Bible or devotional to him. Romans 10:17 says, “So then faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.” There is no better time to fill their little spirits with the Word of God. Witten loves when I read my Bible to him. He gets still and normally leans back with his head on my shoulder. It is the most precious thing!

3. Have a plan – I keep all of my quiet time “materials” in one place. I have my Bible there, but I mostly use my phone with the Bible app. I read devotions on there everyday and can look up Scripture rather quickly. I also have a Bible study book. I have just started The Quest by Beth Moore. I love her Bible studies, and I highly suggest you checking them out. I also have my prayer journal. It lists prayer requests, specific prayers, as well as Scripture to pray.

Also, have a way to continue Bible study when your little one won’t cooperate. I am so thankful for my husband, who respects my time and will take Witten and keep him entertained.

Even when life isn’t going the way you think it should for your quiet time, I hope you are able to get in time with Jesus. It is so important and vital to our walk with the Lord that we spend one on one time with Him.

Tell me some ways you are able to do quiet time with a toddler.