Before Worship Talk about expectations on your way to church. Get a drink and visit the rest room before entering the sanctuary. Sit where your child is able to see the front of the church. Point out the pulpit, altar, lectern, organ, and communion rail. Discuss how they are used. Look for colors and symbols in the banners, windows, paraments, and other art work. Explain that they are there to remind us of God's love and care. Find all the crosses in the church. Tell your child that the cross reminds us of Jesus. Talk about the people who help during the service and mention the jobs they do (pastor, readers, ushers, organist, etc.). During Worship Be consistent in your expectations and routines. Sit close to the front so the child can see and be more involved in worship. Allow your child to sit in a comfortable manner. Bring a booster chair so they can see. If your child wiggles, avoid fretting; adults wiggle, too! Participate joyfully! Your child will model your actions. Don't worry that your child doesn't listen to what you say, know that she watches everything you do. Make church a warm, loving place to be. Discipline in a kind manner. Demonstrate forgiveness. Help your child listen for a key word, such as "Jesus." Explain what is happening in the service. Answer your child's questions briefly and accurately. Involve your child in the worship service. Sing together. Fold hands for the prayers; stand and sit at appropriate times. Bring your child forward for a blessing during Holy communion. After Worship Greet the pastor at the door, Lift your child to be at the pastor's eye level. Encourage your child to shake hands with the pastor. Talk about the worship service by mentioning parts that were especially meaningful to you (the Choir song, sermon, a hymn . . .). Talk about the childrenÕs message and refer to it during the week in relation to your childÕs life. Make a praise booklet. Have your child draw pictures that reflect what God has done or things for which your child is thankful. Present the book to your pastor. Sing hymns or songs together. Read and reflect on Scripture readings together. Pray for the pastor, organist, and others who have led the worship service. Pray for congregation members who were prayed for in the service. During the Week Pray together. Engage in service and witness projects with your child. Play church at home. Family members may participate. Visit the church. Investigate the baptismal font, lectern, pulpit, organ, communion rail, altar, etc. Explain why and how each is used. Keep comments simple. Spend time each day listening to a spiritual story, record, music, hymns or songs that are regularly sung in church. Make "going to church" a special event. Speak positively about worship. Lay out special clothes for church on Saturday night. Prepare an offering with your child. Explain that it is a gift for Jesus. Purchase a child's Bible. Read it at home. Carry it to church. CLOSE WINDOW