Do Children Need Religion?

Of course, children will be exposed to some form of conceptual faith; societally, it's everywhere, and there may come a time when they realize/feel that science cannot always provide answers.

Although each parent is guided by their own beliefs, any religious or spiritual foundation (especially when coming from a parental figure) is an important step in introducing religion and/or spirituality. A child should be able to make their own decision regarding their beliefs, values, convictions, and faith; however, it will be easier and less traumatic if the parent is there to help the child transition from core beliefs at home to broader religious or spiritual beliefs.

Children are born with pure innocence and, at birth, are not yet corrupted by society’s views and expectations. Like all people, children have a prospective bearing toward spirituality. However, in children, this bearing is vulnerable and susceptible to questioning. Children cannot help but wonder why. It is this “why” factor, undoubtedly in all children, that makes a foundation of faith/spirituality (or lack thereof) a necessity. Furthermore, it is necessary not only to address their curiosity but also to provide stability in their adult beliefs, whatever they may be.

Children thrive on support from a superior being. To them, their parent is a superior being. That parent needs to meet the child’s needs and be prepared to cultivate a humanistic approach to help the child prosper in a world of constant unknowns. Giving children the gift of religion (or at least knowledge of), in any form or at any stage, promotes moral standards and a sense of thankfulness. Though not all religions coincide, they all teach a “golden rule” and a moral rule (for lack of a better term) to love thy neighbor.

All parents in their right mind [and sometimes even in their left] want their children to grow up compassionate, loyal, honest, and responsible individuals. That's my hope, anyway. A family need not practice an exclusive creed [or any for that matter] to foster spirituality, integrity, respect, and tolerance. Parents have to remember that it is okay not to have all the answers. Who really does? Just as long as there is a basis and strong support from those closest to the child, the child will grow into a hope- and love-rich being.

On a personal level, I don't consider myself "religious," but I believe there's truth, if even a little, in all religion, and even in the lack thereof. I am a Unitarian Universalist. I believe that all religions and spiritual beliefs have merit. I also believe in the inherent worth and dignity of humans, as well as compassion and a hope for a world community with peace, liberty, and justice. We raised our daughter in many faiths. We educated her about a variety of religions/spiritual practices (and celebrated a variety of cultural holidays). Our hope was that she would be well educated so she could make her own religious/spiritual decisions. She is now 25 years old, and I am confident that she can choose [and change] her path as she sees fit.