The Little Way for Little Hearts: Teaching St. Thérèse’s Simplicity at Home

When life with little ones feels chaotic, with breakfast dishes piling high, a trail of toys behind you, and at least one meltdown before noon, holiness can seem like something reserved for quieter, holier people. But St. Thérèse of Lisieux, the “Little Flower,” would smile and remind us: “Holiness consists simply in doing God’s will, and being just what God wants us to be.”

Her “Little Way” is a path tailor-made for families. It doesn’t ask for perfection. It asks for love in the smallest things. It’s the whispered I love You, Jesus as you wipe another spill, or the patience you choose when a toddler tests every ounce of your virtue.

This way of holiness is gentle, but it isn’t easy. It calls us to find God right where we are: in sticky hands and bedtime prayers, in endless laundry and quiet forgiveness. If we teach our children that these moments matter to God, we help them see the beauty of offering their little acts of love back to Him.

One simple family tradition is to create a “Love Jar.” Each evening, invite everyone to write one small act of love from their day, such as sharing a toy, saying sorry first, or helping without being asked. Drop each note inside the jar. By week’s end, you’ll have a bouquet of hidden holiness blooming right at home.

And maybe, as you end the day, you can curl up together with your favorite saint story, perhaps St. Thérèse’s, wrapped in something cozy that reminds you of her gentle joy. In our home, we keep a St. Thérèse blanket nearby, soft and simple, full of that same “little love” spirit. It has become more than just a blanket; it is a quiet reminder that even our smallest moments can be holy ones.

“Without love, deeds, even the most brilliant, count as nothing.” – St. Thérèse of Lisieux

As her feast day comes around this October, let her teach your family that sainthood begins in the ordinary. Small acts. Quiet love. Hidden holiness. That is the Little Way, and it is one every family can walk together.

And maybe, as you end the day, you can curl up together with your favorite saint story — perhaps St. Thérèse’s — wrapped in something cozy that reminds you of her gentle joy. In our home, we keep a St. Thérèse blanket nearby — soft, simple, and full of that same “little love” spirit. It’s become more than just a blanket; it’s a sweet reminder that even our quiet moments can be holy ones.

“Without love, deeds, even the most brilliant, count as nothing.” – St. Thérèse of Lisieux

As her feast day comes around this October, let her teach your family that sainthood begins in the ordinary. Small acts. Quiet love. Hidden holiness. That’s the Little Way — and it’s one every family can walk together.