If you have ever tried to keep a toddler quiet during a church service, you know it can feel like a full-contact sport. Between snacks, dropped crayons and questions whispered at full volume, many parents leave worship wondering whether it was worth it. We want to assure you: it is. And you are welcome here, wiggles and all.
At Laingsburg United Methodist Church, we believe children belong in worship. They learn what it means to be part of a faith community by being present in it. This article shares practical tips for parents and caregivers, along with some encouragement for the days that don't go as planned.
Why Bring Children to Worship?
Children learn by watching. When they see the adults they love singing, praying, listening and sharing the peace, they absorb the rhythms of faith long before they can explain them. Worship teaches children that they are part of something bigger than themselves, a community that loves them and a God who welcomes them.
Jesus made a point of welcoming children, even when his disciples tried to send them away: "Allow the children to come to me. Don't forbid them, because God's kingdom belongs to people like these" (Mark 10:14, CEB). Our congregation takes that seriously. When children are baptized at Laingsburg UMC, the whole congregation promises to help nurture them in the faith. You can read more on our Being Baptized page.
Before You Leave Home
Talk about church ahead of time
Children do better when they know what to expect. On Saturday night or Sunday morning, talk about what will happen: "We'll sing songs, hear a story from the Bible, say prayers, and then have a snack at coffee hour." For first-time visitors, our I'm New Here page can help you know what to expect too.
Pack a church bag
Keep a special bag with items used only on Sunday mornings so they feel novel. Good choices include:
- Board books or picture books, especially Bible story books
- Crayons and a small notebook or coloring pages
- Quiet toys like soft blocks, stickers or a small stuffed animal
- A water bottle and a mess-free snack
- Diapers, wipes and a change of clothes for little ones
Plan for timing
Try to feed children beforehand and arrive a few minutes early so you aren't rushed. If naps are an issue, remember that our 10:30 am service time may fall close to nap time for some toddlers. Do what works for your family, and give yourself grace.
During the Service
Choose your seat strategically
It might seem counterintuitive, but many children engage better when they sit near the front where they can see what's happening. Others do better near an aisle for quick exits. At Laingsburg UMC, our sanctuary "prayground" is a comfy area with toys and books where children can play while parents stay close and participate in worship.
Help them participate
Instead of only trying to keep children quiet, invite them in. Point to the words in the hymnal as you sing. Whisper what's happening: "Now we're praying for people who are sick." Let them put the offering in the plate. Encourage them to stand, sit and fold their hands along with everyone else. Children who take part are often less restless than children who are simply waiting for it to be over.
Enjoy the children's message
Many Sundays include a brief children's message, when children are invited to come forward for a short lesson designed just for them. It's often a highlight of their morning, and many adults enjoy it just as much.
Use the Family Space when needed
Sometimes a child needs a break. Just outside our sanctuary, the Family Space offers comfortable seating, a changing table, toys and a child-friendly restroom. Parents stay with their children there, and you're always welcome to return to the sanctuary whenever you're ready. Learn more on our Children's Ministries page.
Tips by Age
Babies (0–12 months)
Babies are often the easiest worshipers! Feeding, rocking and gentle bouncing are all perfectly fine during the service. The music can be soothing.
Toddlers (1–3 years)
This is the most challenging stage. Keep expectations realistic. Aim for participation in short bursts: singing, the children's message, the offering. Quiet toys and snacks are your friends, and breaks are normal.
Preschoolers (3–5 years)
Preschoolers can begin to follow along. Give them jobs, like holding the bulletin or finding the hymn number. Ask them afterward what they remember.
Early elementary (5–8 years)
Children this age can join in reading prayers and singing familiar songs. Encourage them to draw a picture of the sermon or Bible story. Talk about it together on the way home.
A Word About Noise
We like to say that God gave children wiggles, voices and great energy. A little noise is the sound of a growing church. Please don't feel embarrassed if your child babbles during the prayer or drops a toy during the sermon. The people around you are almost certainly smiling, and many of them remember being in your shoes. If your child becomes truly upset, stepping out for a few minutes is fine. Come back when you're ready.
After Church
- Stay for coffee hour. Fellowship helps children build relationships with adults and other kids in the congregation.
- Talk about it. Ask, "What was your favorite part?" or "What song did we sing?"
- Celebrate small wins. Notice what went well, even if it was just one song.
- Keep coming. Consistency matters. Each week gets a little easier as church becomes familiar.
More Ways to Grow as a Family
Sunday worship is just one part of the picture. Messy Church offers hands-on, all-ages faith activities with a shared meal, and family events like Trunk-or-Treat are a fun way to connect. As children grow, The CORE Youth Group welcomes students in grades 6–12. All of our ministries with children follow our Safe Sanctuary protection policy.
Conclusion
Bringing young children to church takes effort, patience and a well-stocked bag of crayons. But every Sunday you show up, you're teaching your children that they belong to a community of faith and to a God who loves them. Some Sundays will be peaceful and some will be chaotic, and both are okay. We'd love to welcome your family at Laingsburg United Methodist Church any Sunday at 10:30 am. Wiggles welcome!