In EYFS, children are gently introduced to prayer through short, simple and familiar words. Across the year, they learn to make the Sign of the Cross, join in with simple responses such as “Amen”, say thank you to God, say sorry, and ask God for help. These prayers are linked to the Church year, for example waiting for Jesus during Advent, giving thanks at Christmas, saying sorry during Lent and celebrating the joy of Easter. As children become more confident, they are encouraged to join in independently and begin using their own words to pray.