Tips for Attending Church with Small Children

For many parents, going to church can be a disaster. Especially if your children are small and your church does not offer a nursery. In my case, a nursery is provided but my children are unwilling to stay there.

Most moms who attend church with their small children rarely hear a sermon. We are too busy occupying and keeping the children quiet. We usually will stop at nothing in order to not cause a disruption.

Below, I have offered some tips that I find often works well for attending church with small children.

Always pack a bag. Be prepared for anything.

Let the children help choose a couple of items that they would like to take with them. Letting your children be involved in the choice will help them be more open to occupying themselves with the item when the time comes that you need it. However, be very careful not to let your child choose a toy that talks, plays music, or makes noise.

Be certain to stock up on the appropriate snacks. Let's face it; some snacks are just not made for Sunday dresses and church pews. Toddler fruit puffs, vanilla wafers, fruit snacks, marshmallows, and dry cereals such as cheerios or fruit loops. Avoid foods with a lot color that could run on clothing or foods that have a 'mushy' texture.

Pack crayons, paper, pens, or pencils. Make sure that your child ahs something to draw on during the service.

Pack items that your child does not usually play with. Save certain items just for church. Purchase items along to introduce to your child at church. Children are not near as fascinated with items that they play with everyday. Buy small items that you can hand to your child when he or she becomes fussy during the sermon. Purchase a neat looking pen, a small gadget, or a small doll or truck.

Always take a sippy cup for your child to drink from. Avoid juice boxes or other containers that can spill.

Save your ammunition. Let your child get a little noisy during the singing if needed. Save all of your distracting objects for the prayers and sermon.

Take your child, if old enough, to the restroom when you first arrive. Let him or her get a drink form the water fountain. Explain that all of these needs have been taken care of and will not be necessary during church. This may save you from up and down the aisles later.

Always make sure that you have plenty of wipes. Spills when snacking can occur. Be prepared.

Sit close to the back so your can have easy access to the door if needed.

Sit with family or friends that your child knows. Remind friends and family not to aggravate or cause your child to get excited. The child may be occupied by moving from one hand to another.

Refrain from sitting with children that will cause your child to become noisy. Many times groups of children tend to play and get loud. A companion can be great to occupy your child if the two can remain quiet. Play this one by ear.