Altars for Children
You can approach your child with the idea of an altar, but if altars have been a natural part of your spirituality and religious practice, your child might eventually request one. The altar becomes another way for children to assert their independence. Although your child may request to set up a personal altar, he/she may not want you to do it for him/her, just help.
When setting up an altar for a child, help him/her pick a good spot in the bedroom or playroom. It should be easily accessible yet out of the way. A corner table or half of the dresser top is suitable. Clean the area and perform a cleansing and purification. You can do this together or provide some simple tools and encourage your child to do it alone. Give your child a compass to help determine the directions. Give him/her a little bit of dirt to sprinkle in the North, some loose feathers for the East, a flashlight he/she can turn on and off towards the South, and a little water to sprinkle at the West. Imagine how proud your child will be at performing this little rite all by him/herself.
When creating an altar for your child, try to be flexible. Children view the world differently than most adults. While a statue of Cernunnos might evoke the masculine energies you require, a child might choose a Spiderman action figure instead. A favorite Barbie doll might end up representing the Goddess. A special rock may go in the North point. A stuffed whale toy may go in the West. It may seem silly to a parent, but these objects are dear to children and they may embody the positive energies that children need. Your child might also change his/her altar frequently, depending on what feels right at the moment.
When it comes to the altar, allow your child's creativity to flow naturally. After all, this is his/her sacred space. If your altar can provide a tremendous sense of comfort for you, imagine what it can do for your child. By allowing your children personal altars, you are providing them with a healthy outlet with which to work through difficulties and offering them the ability to trust in themselves.
We deserve to feel fulfilled and joyful in our rites. So do our children. Allowing them to set up their own personal altars will allow them to express their spirituality. It also encourages learning
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