Preparing for worship together
IDEAS AND TIPS FOR
FAMILY WORSHIP
BEFORE THE SERVICE
Have you been on the SPLASH app recently? Check it out for some fun updates and tools to help children connect with God's word at home, during worship services, and beyond!
You know your kids best, but here are some ideas of what to pack for church (in the building or at someone else's house):
- a Children's Bible with pictures
- one quiet toy or fidget
- a treat (suckers last a long time!)
- scrap paper and colored pencils
Consider saving some of these items until the sermon when attention often wanes.
AT HOME: If you are hosting friends at your house and they will have children, consider setting up an inviting space for the kids on the floor in the same room (toy free) so they can listen in when they want to. Let them sit where they can easily see the screen.
AT CHURCH: You may want to pick the section and seating order or you may want to allow your kids to pick the spot as a way to get them engaged. We have found the closer children sit to the platform, the more their curiosity is piqued.
AT HOME: If you are hosting friends at your house and they will have children, consider setting up an inviting space for the kids on the floor in the same room (toy free) so they can listen in when they want to. Let them sit where they can easily see the screen.
AT CHURCH: You may want to pick the section and seating order or you may want to allow your kids to pick the spot as a way to get them engaged. We have found the closer children sit to the stage, the more their curiosity is piqued.
DURING THE SERVICE
AT HOME: If a child worshiping with you knows motions to a song, try following! It's fun to move a little and kids enjoy when you join in.
AT CHURCH: Gather smaller children close during the music. Let them hear your voice and even gently place their hands on your neck to feel your vocal cords. Reverse it for fun and place your hand on their neck to feel theirs!
Routines will help your kids better engage over time. Try holding hands during the pastoral prayer or ask a child to choose the prayer posture for the whole family or group to take
AT HOME: Check out the SPLASH app and click on sermon notes for games and activities that connect with the sermon.
AT CHURCH: pick up a children's bulletin with mazes and games for your kids.
With older kids, encourage participation by passing notes with questions or observations about the service.
Family worship is full of surprises and the occasional challenge. "Distractions" are welcome and someone will inevitably have to go to the bathroom. Don't expect your kids to pay attention all the time. Recognize that they're absorbing much more than they let on.
Introduce your kids to the people who regularly lead worship. Point to them on the screen and introduce their names, or point them out on the platform. It's easier to engage with people you know! Maybe share a story of how you know the leaders, too!
AFTER THE SERVICE
Resist the urge to "quiz." Instead, ask inquisitive questions. Try some of these: "What was the most interesting part of the service?" "Did anything seem odd to you?" "How did you feel when ______ happened?"
Don't overdo it with the desire to make meaningful conversation after service. Bring meaning in other ways, like thinking of Sunday lunch as a celebration of hearing God's word and getting to worship with family, friends, and neighbors! Maybe pack a lunch to-go and head to a park for a picnic!
The weekly gathering is meant to send us out. Brainstorm one verb (action word) each week after the service that can help everyone apply their learning. Put that word on the fridge, chalkboard, or other highly visible place in your home.
Include your children in discussion about the sermon. Use questions provided in the sermon to drive conversation, or check out the SPLASH app and click on God Talk for more discussion ideas and application.