TIPS FOR ADULTS WORSHIPPING WITH CHILDREN
Find a good spot. Sit where you and your children are most comfortable. Sometimes children like to sit in the front, so they can see and hear what is going on during the service. Sometimes children like to sit where they can watch the musicians in our choir area. Sometimes they like to sit where they can walk up and down the side aisle when their legs get restless.
Sing, pray, respond. Children will learn liturgical behavior by following along and copying what you do. It’s okay when kids make a bit of noise and even on occasion have a full-throttle tantrum in church. We expect it, and we won’t give dirty looks if it happens to you.
Teach. Explain parts of the service to your children. You can help your children follow along in the bulletin, and find music in our hymnals.
Snacks are OK. If a bag of Goldfish or Cheerios helps a child be present and comfortable, by all means, snack away! Please try to pick up any dropped snacks before you leave; they’re a lot easier to clean up before they get stepped on.
Take breaks. Obviously, a screaming child may need a break from the liturgy. It’s perfectly fine to get up and take your child out of the Nave (worship space) at any time they need it. There are comfortable chairs in the parlor as well as a bit of room to move around. The service can be heard in there, so you can still participate in worship. At the other end of our building is our Nursery. There are toys available in there, and the worship service can be heard as well. If you need help finding this, just ask one of our ushers, and they'll be glad to help.
Use the crayons, coloring pages, books, etc.! At the entrances to the sanctuary, we have children's bags available with crayons, coloring sheets, and children’s books for kids to use during the liturgy. An usher or greeter can help find one for you.
Take a tour. Allowing the children time to explore and learn about the important elements of the sanctuary will relay the importance of entering the sacred space with reverence. If you’d like a guided tour, talk to Pastor Adam. He loves talking with kids about church!
Talk with others. If you feel like your kids are having a difficult time, chat with other parents or grandparents to ask for their advice after the service. There’s a lot of collective wisdom out there!
For any questions, concerns, or ideas about children in worship, talk to Pastor Adam after church or contact us through the website! And thanks for bringing your kids to church!
