When little ones graduate to “big church,” it should be a joyful experience but often may not be. Here are tips for parents who want to nurture a spirit of worship in their young children.
Explain the order of service so they will know what to expect and when it will happen. If possible, give your child a tour of the sanctuary.
Talk about terms such as bulletin, offering plate, baptism, sermon and hymnal before they attend their first service. During special times such as communion or holidays, take time to explain to your child their significance.
Pack a church bag with quiet items such as crayons, a Bible coloring book, a writing pad, picture books and pipe cleaners. Save the church bag for the sermon.
Give your child a Bible they can bring to service each week.
Encourage your child to participate in all parts of the service. They should each stand when you stand, shake hands when appropriate, pray when you pray, etc.
Allow them to whisper questions- practice this at home. If the explanation is lengthy, then save it for after the service.
Talk positively about going to church and the pastor.
Discuss the sermon on your way home from the service and during the following week. Answer any questions they might have.
Sit up front so your child can see. This helps them pay better attention.
Avoid confrontation during the service. If your child’s behavior becomes disruptive, then leave for your sake. Make sure they understand they will be required to return to service when they settle down.
Correct disruptive behavior. Be specific.
Give lots of positive affirmation.
Establish some sort of signal to remind your child to refocus their attention, such as a hand on the shoulder, leg or arm.
As children get older, phase out distractions such as the church bag items. To help them pay attention, ask them to remember three points from the sermon.
Don’t expect more from your child than you expect from yourself.
Sources: James Blackeney, Lisa Lowell and Joy Moore
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