Tips for Parents

·          Sit near the front of the sanctuary so children can see. (Booster seats are available by the drinking fountain to help shorter children see.)

 ·          If your child becomes restless, you can take him/her out the left front or rear sanctuary doors for a little  time to regroup.

 ·          The narthex (the area behind the glass in back of sanctuary) is an excellent place to soothe a crying child.  The nursery is also available, just down the hall.

 ·          Pick up worship books for children from the bookcase in the Narthex.  There are books for pre-readers, and for early elementary ages.

 ·          Older elementary children can participate more fully if they use the bookmarks found in the worship books to mark the place for hymns and Bible readings.

 ·          If children cannot read, they can be encouraged to hum the hymn tunes.

 ·          Encourage your child to stand when the congregation stands.  This will stretch muscles and encourage participation.

 ·          Younger children might appreciate a quiet snack like raisins.

 ·          Younger children might like to have something soft and quiet to hold, like a favorite stuffed animal, or doll.

 ·          A coin offering teaches sharing.  When the offering plate is passed, let your child put money in and help pass it to the next person.

  ·          Encourage, but don't force your child to come forward for the children's sermon. 

   ·          Use worship as a time when you can be close to your child.  Let him/her know how good it is to be able to be in worship together. When your child squirms, or distracts you, remember to thank God for your healthy, active child.

 ·          Answer children's questions about worship when you get home.  This is good dinner conversation.

 ·          Play church at home.  Let children practice for the worship experience.

·          Before you get to church on Sunday morning, remind your child of church manners, "we don't run, so we won't trip someone, or cause someone to be hurt." "We listen when it's time to listen so that everyone around us can hear," etc.

 ·          During worship, when needed, remind your child to use "church manners."

 ·          After worship thank your child for remembering his/her church manners, and tell your child something specific he or she did well, for instance, "I really liked the way you sang all the hymns."