The ABCs of Worship with Chidlren

“Then Jesus took a child and had him stand in front of them.  He put his arms around the child and said: “Whoever welcomes in my name one of these children, welcomes me;  and whoever welcomes me, welcomes not only me, but also the One who sent me.”                                                                                                    Mark 9:36-37

“The ABC’s of Worship” were adapted from materials by St. Columba’s Episcopal Church
(Washington, DC) Adaptations and additional
material written by Tracey E. Herzer©2004

ARRIVE in time to use the restroom, get water, and find a good place to sit – a place where your child can really watch what is happening. When possible, let children sit near the front or on the aisle so they can see.  Don’t feel you must resign yourself to the back pews!

BRING quiet toys or books for young children and gradually increase the amount of time you ask them to pay attention. Children can usually be expected to participate in most of a 60-minute service
by 2nd or 3rd Grade. Remember it is important to actively participate in worship yourself. Children will see that what we do in church is important and will take their cues from you.

CREATE some family rituals about church.  Spend some time “playing church” at home, practicing periods of silence, singing the doxology, etc. Consider using the Lord’s Prayer at home before meals or bedtime.

DECIDE on a family signal to let children know when to settle down. Go over the service with your child or softly whisper hints about what happens next. Children like to be ready, so help them mark pages.

EXPRESS joy at having children here! During the Peace, welcome any children near you. Include them in conversation before or after the service and try to send an occasional smile their way. Children might not remember every word of a service, but they’ll retain the experience of being a valued part of a faith community!

FEEL FREE to leave the service at any time if your child is crying or restless… but also know
you can come back in at any time!  Taking a break in the back of the church is often a good alternative to leaving the service completely. Times that are particularly easy to move with a child might be during a hymn, during the Peace or when we stand to say the Nicene Creed.

GIVE your child a chance to explore the church with you after the service is over. Although there is a holy mystery surrounding the altar, familiarity with the physical setting may make your child more at ease. You can also ask a priest to give you a tour of the church.