Children in Worship

At Grace, as Jesus did, we welcome children of all ages as integral members of the body of Christ, and we welcome the sounds and activity that accompany them! There are a number of spaces and activities designed for children to experience and participate in worship. At the entrance to the worship space, kids can pick from a selection of quiet manipulatives to take to their seats. There is also a book cart with a variety of picture books and early reader books. The Prayground is located in the front left of the worship space and there is also a Prayground located in the back as well. This area is designed for young children to quietly engage in age-appropriate activities while experiencing worship in the sanctuary along with their families.

Prayground - This space in the front of the Sanctuary is intended especially for families with infants and toddlers, recognizing that small kids are often more engaged when they can see what’s going on. Small tables and chairs, baby bouncers and seats, and soft toys help to keep our littlest ones occupied.

Prayground - Koinonia Gallery - While the sounds that children make are most welcome in the Sanctuary, we recognize that concerns about disturbing others can hinder parents’ ability to focus on worship. Koinonia Gallery is located behind the back glass wall of the Sanctuary. Sound is piped in, so parishioners can both see and hear what’s happening in worship, while children can play freely.

We also offer NURSERY care for infants through age 3 as an option for parents. The nursery is staffed by an adult along with helpers who are in confirmation (middle school aged) or high school.

How can you help welcome families with young children in worship?

  • Greet and learn the names of the young children who sit near you in worship

  • Offering to read or color with one child during worship, especially if another child in the family is especially fussy or upset

  • Helping preschoolers and elementary-aged kids to navigate the liturgy, locate the hymns, etc.  (Children learn to worship by participating!)

  • Inviting kids to serve alongside you in worship, as greeters, ushers, etc.