Making Worship Meaningful for Children

When the Sunday morning worship service includes young children who need to know that God loves them, congregations may find it challenging. Young children can benefit greatly from participation in Sunday morning worship. On the other hand, children who become bored or noisy make it difficult for others in the congregation to focus on their own worship.

There is no simple answer; but to help make worship more meaningful for young children in your congregation, try these simple, practical suggestions:

For parents:

•	Pack a "Sunday Only Bag" of soft, quiet toys that aren't used the rest of the week.
•	Encourage kids to use their 'soft voice."
•	If your child is beyond the toddler stage, try sitting (prepare yourself) RIGHT IN THE FRONT PEW. Children will watch the color and movement at the altar with great interest if they can see.
•	Have your child hold the service book, and use your finger to show them the appropriate part of the service
•	Teach your child the Lord's Prayer or creed at home. Even early on, they like being able to recite it with everyone else.
•	After the service, talk with your child about what they saw, heard or did during worship.

For people who aren't parenting now: 

•	Introduce yourself, speak to children each week, smile at them!
•	Every month or two, offer to have one of the children sit with you. Show them the liturgy, and give parents a chance to worship uninterrupted or to give more attention to other siblings. The child will feel important to the church, and you'll make a wonderful new friend. 
•	Pray regularly for children and their parents in your congregation and in this world. They need every bit of support we can give them.