It’s hard for children to sit still for long, but here are some ideas that other parents have found helpful.
When you arrive, introduce your children to the greeters and make sure each is given a copy of the service leaflet.
Feel free to borrow books and/or art supplies at the Children’s Cart in the entryway, returning them after the service. Some children hear better if their hands are busy.
Try sitting close to the front where small children can get a better view of what is happening.
Children learn how to participate in worship by imitating you. Sing the hymns, pray, and give voice to the responses.
Feel free to whisper as you help your child follow the service. Encourage children to find the hymns, and share the hymnal with children at their eye level. For younger readers, line the words with your finger.
Show children how to participate in The Peace.
Guide them as they take Communion. Show them how to cup their hands to receive the bread, sip from the cup or dip the wafer into the cup. If they are receiving a blessing, show them how to cross their arms.
After the service, introduce yourself and your children to the people who are sitting nearby.
Share your experiences of worship at home or when driving in the car.
Remember the promise we make whenever a child is baptized:
“Will you who witness these vows do all in your power to support these persons in their life in Christ?”
Greet children, as well as adults, and be as intentional about knowing children’s names as you are about knowing adults’ names.
Include children in the passing of the offering plate and at The Peace.
When children give visible leadership, respond to them as worship leaders – not as performers.
Be understanding when parents need to take younger ones out and then return during worship.
Ask parents you know if occasionally they would like you to invite their child to sit with you during worship.