We know that sometimes kids make noise. Seriously. That's normal.

They speak out of turn. They do goofy stuff. But that’s all part of being a kid and we really don’t mind that. Even babies. If they squawk or cry like babies do, that’s all fine. We don’t mind because it’s all about life together as a family. And families are together in the quiet times and the noisy times.

We can all be a family with you and your kids.

Of course it does! But that is totally OK. Children are beginners at everything, and church is no different. Think about how children learn language. At first, they don’t know anything about language. That’s okay, because they are children. We don’t expect them to. Over time, as they hear people talking around them, and they pick up the language naturally, a little at a time.

Church is like that too. The best way to learn is immersion. Over time, the words, and the music, and the prayers become familiar. These are things that your children will remember for the rest of their lives. You will be surprised what children will pick up when you don’t think they are paying any attention.

Even tiny babies and toddlers are welcome in our services. If things get too much, there is nursery downstairs where you can go with them for a little while. There are toys and rocking chairs, and it’s a good place for little ones to get settled down until they are ready to rejoin the service. The service is transmitted by speakers so you can still listen to what’s going on upstairs.

The packets will usually include a few crayons and some coloring pages, a simple activity sheet related to the service, and a simply toy like a pipe cleaner or wiki stix. The idea is to give your kids something to do, where they can still be part of the service even if they aren’t paying 100% attention.

First, it really is OK for kids to be bored sometimes. Those boring times are often when kids really learn to be mentally self-reliant because they have to be creative in their own imaginations. But there are a few things experienced parents often do to help their children through church.

• Sit toward the front, not in back. It’s easier for your little ones to see and hear what is going on. They tire of looking at the backs of others’ heads.
• Quietly explain parts of the service and actions of the ministers. Maybe whisper the sermon to them in words they can understand.
• Sing the hymns/songs, pray and voice the responses because children learn the liturgy by watching you.
• If you have to leave the service, feel free to do so. Even take a walk in the park across the street. But feel free to come back as well!
• Let your kids doodle and color in church. Often when their hands are busy, their minds are engaged with the service more than you realize.

Feel free to bring whatever healthy little snacks your family prefers. It’s helpful to pick things are aren’t in loud crinkly wrapping, or that are likely to spill or otherwise make a mess. Messes happen, and we’ll clean it up, but it can be distracting to you when that happens.