- Bring children to church at an early age and often so that they become familiar with the worship sounds, words and environment.
- Realize that even though children do not catch everything in worship (who does?) they do pickup what is age appropriate to them. Even infants can absorb the worship atmosphere and develop a sense that they are “at home.”
- Help the child understand what is going on by being like a sportscaster at a ball game. Call attention to what is going on: cross entering, prayers being said, baby being baptized, etc. Explain what the child is seeing.
- Sit in the front so that the child can see more and feel a part of what is going on.
- Help them learn some of the brief responses like “Amen,” “Hear our prayer,” “And also with you,” and “Thanks be to God,” and let them know ahead of time so that they can say them with the congregation.
- Let them find and mark the songs in the worship book, or have them place their own small offering in the offering plate.
- Encourage them to interact with others at the time of the “Greeting of Peace.”
- Bring them to the altar for a blessing at the time of Holy Communion.
- Restless infants can be carried across the back of the church. The movement of the fans and the colors of the windows may be very calming, and a parent can still participate in worship. However, do take them out of the worship area if their crying continues to be disruptive to other worshippers.
- If small children want to walk up and down across a half empty pew let them. This does not disturb the pastor.
- Bring along a few books, crayons and/or soft, “quiet” toys. If possible, make the books and toys “church-related.” Avoid toys that make noise, are breakable, or have parts that might be dropped.
- Avoid, if at all possible, all scolding, harsh words, jerking or slapping. Convey by your own attitude that worship is special and that it is good to be a part of it.
- If possible, avoid having two children sit together. Put an adult between them.
- Be aware that some children may go through phases where their behavior is “impossible” for weeks on end. Don't be discouraged. Leave them at home with a sitter or take them to the nursery and try again in a little while. A few months of extra maturity can make a difference.
Adapted from “Children and Church” by Maria Mickwitz, Trinity Lutheran Church, Latrobe, PA
