ABSTRACT

This chapter examines the role of spiritual education in holistic child development through the lens of the Bahá’í Faith. Drawing on psychological research and Bahá’í writings, we explore how spirituality fosters emotional resilience, moral development, prosocial behavior, and cognitive growth. The chapter emphasizes the Bahá’í view that children are inherently spiritual beings whose education must nurture both intellectual and moral capacities. Core principles such as the oneness of humanity, service to others, and the cultivation of virtues are presented as foundational to spiritual education. Practical elements—such as prayer, reflection, and service learning—are highlighted through case examples of Bahá’í-inspired programs for children and youth. We reason that this spiritually grounded, child-centered model equips children to become compassionate, reflective, and socially engaged individuals. The chapter concludes by offering implications for educators, parents, and community leaders across diverse cultural and faith contexts, illustrating how spiritual education can serve as a transformative force for both individual growth and collective well-being.