Worshipping with Little Ones
What a joy and privilege to worship with children! Worship is a communal activity in which we participate together as a church family and is one of the best ways to welcome children into the life of the church. Yet, children are in the process of learning the significance of worship and how to worship. During our nursery and Kids Bible Times, teachers emphasize why we worship and help children learn prayers and songs that are typically part of our services. However, there are ways parents and congregants alike can train our children in the joys of worship.
For Parents:
Parents have the responsibility and blessing to lead and train children in worship. Living in a culture where children are constantly entertained can make this responsibility difficult. However, consider the tips below to help the process go a bit more smoothly:
Tips for Sunday Worship:
Start Saturday night by looking at the worship bulletin and practicing songs that will be sung. Lay out clothes and get together what you will need for worship.
If you need time to calm a squirmy toddler, feel free to step out.
Some children can pay attention better if they sit up front.
Worship with rather than beside children. Help your child who can’t read by singing the words of the chorus in their ears so they can sing along.
Help them follow along in the Bible. Point out words for young or non-readers that are repetitive.
Allow children to participate in offering by sharing their allowance.
Whisper instructions or comments such as, “Now is the time when we tell God how great He is.”
Use a worship notebook where children can draw pictures of what they hear in the scripture passage and sermon or write down thoughts that are meaningful to them.
For the Rest of Us:
Church is not for adults only. Supporting the children of New City as they grow as worshippers of the Lord is the responsibility of us all.
Remember the commitment you made as a church when children were baptized, a commitment to encourage them to become disciples of Christ.
Introduce yourself to the child sitting beside you. Make him or her feel welcomed and important.
Understand when parents need to take young children and babies out of the service and then return.
Have patience with the learning process and pray for families.
Compliment children who are listening attentively during the service.
Consider providing encouragement and support for single mothers or children with special needs.
The balcony is reserved for nursing mothers only which provides a comfortable, private space for mothers to worship.
As we worship, look around. Can we make the experience easier for the families learning how to worship?
Teaching children how to worship the Lord with reverence and awe is something we can all be excited about doing. What a blessing and privilege is this special endeavor!