When children are baptised, we say "We welcome you"
Children are never too young to come to church. You and your children are always welcome
We realise that bringing children, especially babies and toddlers, to a church can be very hard work, it always seems as if your baby is crying the loudest
We want your coming to church to be a happy experience for you and your child. On this page you will find some information, which we hope will make your being in church easier and more enjoyable.
You and Your Toddler
A service can be a long time for a pre-school child, so do bring quiet toys and books to look at. If your child decides to go exploring during the service, then it's best to let him or her have a look around but please follow your little adventurer to make sure they are safe.
How to help your toddler enjoy being in church
- children learn most at this stage by imitation. Encourage your toddler to imitate what you are doing - holding a book, standing beside you to sing, kneeling or sitting at prayer times.
- If it is Communion, bring your toddler to the rail for a blessing. They quickly learn that this is a special time for themselves and the people around them.
And please remember
We consider that whenever children are in church, they are not there to be "coped with" or "put up with". They are members of our congregation and are present in worship as part of their own journey in faith. Even when they are amusing themselves, they are absorbing the atmosphere of worship.
Jesus had a special place for children in his life. He welcomed them, blessed them and encouraged the adults to follow his example
Our work with children and young people is to help and nurture them in their growing faith - they in turn teach and encourage us.