“Inclusive” is the watchword at Wilton Congregational Church’s Church School Program — all children, whether their parents are members or not, are welcome. And all can find a place where they feel comfortable — maybe staying in the sanctuary with their family in the worship service, and maybe participating with other kids in Church School classes.
When Sunday morning worship begins at 9:30 a.m., all children start out sitting with their families in the sanctuary. Not long into the service, kids are invited to the front where they sit together and listen to the pastor’s message just for them — always participative and often with fun props!
After the children’s message, they can remain in the sanctuary during the rest of the service if they want (with activity bags available to keep them engaged), but the real fun begins when the kids make their way to their Church School classrooms. This is where children learn about a Bible story and do a fun craft or activity related to the theme of the Bible story.
Children in kindergarten through 2nd grade are together in one classroom, and those in 3rd through 5th grades are in another classroom. Each week a different lesson is presented. No pressure to come every week! The Church School teachers are parents who have volunteered to lead the lessons, which are set forth for easy use in a prepared curriculum that follows a Bible story to its real-life implications in everyday Wilton.
The youngest children — babies and toddlers — are also welcomed and nurtured at Wilton Congregational. Nursery care for children from birth to pre-K begins before the service even starts. Our well-qualified adult nursery staff is there at 9 a.m. and remains until 11 a.m. — so parents can feel comfortable if they choose to use this helpful resource. The youngest are always welcome in the worship service, but parents find it’s great to know they could use the nursery if they want.
And what about kids in 6th grade and above? They are always welcome to remain in the sanctuary for the worship service, but many choose to help in the Church School classrooms. Their presence on Sunday mornings as older siblings and role models is a special bonus to the younger children.
At the end of the worship service, parents pick up their children in the classroom, following the church’s guidelines for child safety, and all are welcome at Coffee Hour to meet and greet each other. For more information about Church School at Wilton Congregational, visit the church’s website or email Rev. Caroline Hughes.
