First United Methodist Church Richardson, Texas

Making Worship a Positive Experience

Worship is a family experience. Look over the following ideas to help make this a positive family experience.

1. Relax! God put the wiggle in children. Don't feel you have to suppress it in God's house.
2. Sit toward the front where it is easier to see and to hear what is going on.
3. Use a gentle touch: an arm around your child's shoulder, your hand in his/hers to give reassurance and appropriate redirection.
4. Quietly explain the service.
5. Help your child find the pages in the Hymnal. Do not become distressed if your child is unable to find the proper page.
6. Sing the hymns, pray, and voice the responses. Children learn liturgical behavior by copying yours.
7. If your child needs to leave the service, feel free to do so. Please come back!
8. Always remember that the way we welcome children in church directly affects the way they respond to church. Let them know that they are at home at First United Methodist Church.
9. Encourage your child to come forward for the Children's Time using their "walking feet and listening ears" so that all may enjoy this special time.
10. Remember! Jesus invited children, with their wiggles and giggles, to come to Him. He invites them still.

(This list was found in an old file; we do not know to whom to credit it. If you know who the author is, please e-mail so we may properly acknowledge that person.)

Thank you for sharing in our Worship Service!
- The Children's Council and the Worship Committee

Children of all ages are invited to attend any worship service. Sunday services in the Sanctuary include a special Children's Time as well as activity bags that are located at the Sanctuary entrances. Should you have more questions, contact Cheryl Bishop.