Our Vision
Kidtown exists to help the church raise kids who love Jesus.
We believe parents are the primary disciple-makers of their children, so we equip people (parents, volunteers, LifeGroups, etc.) in our church to help kids understand the gospel and develop a relationship with Jesus. Kidtown has no desire to entertain or provide childcare for children. Instead, we teach kids stories from the Bible on their level, sing to Jesus, and build relationships, all with the hope of raising kids who know and love Jesus for a lifetime.
Kidtown is available for six weeks through 3rd Grade at both Gatherings.
If you have any questions, you can reach out to our Kidtown Director, Kirsten Ellison.
WHAT TO EXPECT AT KIDTOWN
At Kidtown, we love welcoming new families! We want to ensure kids and parents feel comfortable worshiping with us. Below are a few tips and pointers so that new families know exactly what to expect.
KIDTOWN CHECK-IN
Our Kidtown Connect Team is stationed by a sign that says, “First Time Family?” They are there to help with the check-in process, give families a tour of our Kidtown space, and answer any questions.
KIDTOWN CHECK-OUT
At check-out, parents will always need to provide the matching identification sticker that they received at check-in. Parents will pick their children up from their classrooms after the Gathering and present the pick-up tag to their child’s teacher.
Parking
We know that it can be difficult to get yourself and your kids ready and out the door on Sunday mornings. So to help, please see the map below to familiarize yourself with our parking lots.
TEACHING & CURRICULUM
Babies have a quiet and safe place to play and learn in Kidtown. There is also a private nursing room available across from the Check-Ins area.
Toddlers (1-2 Years Old) will get to play, build friendships, and learn about Jesus through sensory play. After our initial free play time with other children and Kidtown volunteers, we gather as a group to learn about Jesus using The Gospel Project Curriculum. After this, toddlers are offered a snack (always Cheerios) and a craft or activity to help them apply what they’ve just learned!
Preschoolers (3-5 years old) will get to play, build friendships, and learn about Jesus through sensory play. After our initial play time with other children and Kidtown volunteers, we join the Elementary kids for Large Group corporate worship. Afterward, preschoolers return to their classroom to learn about Jesus using The Gospel Project Curriculum. Then it’s time for a quick snack (Cheerios or Goldfish) and a craft or activity to help them apply what they’ve just learned!
Elementary (Kindergarten-3rd Grade) gathers in small groups for some kinesthetic and hands-on activities that help preview the day’s lesson. Just like our younger group, we’ll transition to our large group space for a time of corporate worship. Then we learn about Jesus using The Gospel Project Curriculum. After reviewing the lesson through a fun game, our kids return to their small groups, where our small group leaders lead a discussion and additional activities to help them apply the truth to their lives.
Take Home & Lifegroup Resources
Parents! We want you to be able to help know what your children are learning in Kidtown and be able to have intentional conversations on the way home or in LifeGroup later in the week. Starting September 8, be sure to grab one of our take-home cards! This card will help summarize the lesson and offer two questions you can ask your preschooler or elementary student!
IMPRINT SPECIAL CARE MINISTRY
All kids and students, regardless of ability or life stage, can experience the love of Jesus and learn about God’s Word. This is accomplished through our Imprint Buddies, who work with a specific child to build a personal relationship and provide one-on-one support during the Gatherings and Students.
If you are interested in learning more about accommodations, complete the form below.
SERVE WITH KIDTOWN
We desire for our volunteers and leaders to become Gospel Fun Experts! They are trained in basic child development, safety policies, and classroom management so they can create safe and fun environments for kids to form relationships and learn about God’s Word. No matter your gifting, there is a spot for you!
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:
WHAT SHOULD I BRING FOR MY CHILD?
Depending on the age of your child, be sure to bring any diapers, pacifiers, extra clothes, bottles, or toddler cups that they may need. To help us keep track of your items, please label them with your child’s first and last name before arriving.
WHAT TIME DOES KIDTOWN OPEN?
Kidtown opens and begins checking children in 15 minutes before the Gathering. We ask that parents/guardians come and pick up their children promptly after the Gathering ends.
WHO WILL BE TEACHING MY CHILD?
Kidtown is hosted by volunteers committed to having fun and teaching kids about Jesus. Each volunteer has undergone a background check and is supervised by our Kidtown Director, Kirsten Ellison.
WHAT ARE INDICATORS THAT MY CHILD IS TOO SICK
TO COME TO KIDTOWN?
We always love having your children at Kidtown but ask that you keep them home if they show any signs of illness. Children should be symptom and fever-free for at least 24 hours before attending Kidtown. If your child has been seen by a medical professional and prescribed antibiotics, we ask that you only bring your child to Kidtown once they have been on medication for at least 24 hours.
RESOURCES FOR PARENTS
Our goal is to help parents be the most confident, well-equipped, joy-filled parents they can be as they raise kids toward Godward independence. Check out our parenting resources!