During the school holidays our kids Sunday programmes take on a more relaxed character. Buds meets as usual, but in the Explorers/Sprouts group, and the Sowers group, kids and leaders enjoy getting to know each other better as they watch a dvd, play games, perhaps make some crafty item, and have morning tea together. The 'holiday programme' is scheduled for the first two weeks of each mid-year school holiday.
Summer is a little different; we have normal programming up til Christmas, then on Christmas Day all-ages meet together for a family service, the following Sundays we don't run a separate children's programme, and then for three lazy January Sundays we have 'holiday programme' before launching into the new year.
Buds - for children aged 9 months to 3 years
'Littlies' participate in the combined service for about 15 minutes, then separate for about an hour and enjoy a craft activity based on a simple Bible concept - like, God loves me, God loves my family, or Jesus is the King. We read a Bible story together, make something to take home, and play with various toys. We meet in the Crypt under the church, where there is space for active games, and we sing and dance too. Carers let parents know if children need comforting or a nappy change, and parents are asked to bring their own spare nappies etc; space for changes is provided.
Sprouts - for Preschool kids, aged 3 to 5 years
Children participate in the combined service for about 15 minutes, then separate into their own group. They learn about God using the Scripture Union (UK) material called 'Bubbles'. Their programme involves simple Bible stories, prayer, craft, music and play. This year the Sprouts are joining with the Explorers group for some of their activities.
Explorers - for kids in Prep to Grade 2
Children participate in the combined service for about 15 minutes, then separate into their own group, and learn about God using the Scripture Union (UK) material called 'Splash!' Their programme involves Bible stories, and the messages are reinforced through craft, puzzles and games, prayer and singing. This year the Explorers are joining with the Sprouts for some of their activities.
Sowers - for kids in Grades 3 to 6
Children participate in the combined service for about 15 minutes, then separate into their own space. They learn about God using the Scripture Union (UK) material called 'Xtream', and through material prepared specifically for them by their leaders. In Term 2 they learned a simple explanation of the Bible message, called "Who will be King?" Children are encouraged to think about their own response to God, and if they would like to, they are encouraged to participate more fully in the life of their church by leading songs and prayers, and reading the Bible in the adult service, and by helping with other areas of ministry.
Wednesday, September 15, 2010
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