Making worship a positive experience for young children

Worship is a family experience. Look over the following ideas to help make this a positive family experience.

1. Relax! God put the wiggle in children - don’t feel you have to suppress it in God's house.

2. Allow your child to bring a favorite stuffed animal or Bible storybook along.

3. For children who attend worship services with their families in the Worship Center, special "Childrens Packets" are available in the Lobby at the Greeter Table.

4. Sit toward the front where it is easier to see and to hear what is going on.

5. Use a gentle touch: an arm around your child's shoulder, your hand in his/hers to give reassurance and appropriate redirection.

6. Quietly explain the service.

7. Clue your child about what will happen next in worship. They like to be ready.

8. Help your child find the pages in the Hymnal. Do not become distressed if your child is unable to find the proper page.

9. Sing the hymns, pray, and voice the responses. Children learn liturgical behavior by copying yours.

10. If your child needs to leave the service, feel free to do so - please come back!

11. Always remember that the way we welcome children in church directly affects the way they respond to church. Let them know that they are at home at Creekside Church.

12. Encourage your child to come forward for the Children's Story Time using their walking feet and listening ears, so that all may enjoy this special time.

13. Remember! Jesus invited children, with their wiggles and giggles, to come to Him. He invites them still.

14. At home, discuss worship to prepare children for changes in the routine, such as a baptism or other special feature. Also, take time to answer questions about worship experiences.