Manor Road welcomes children of all ages into the life of our congregation. These are some of the core children’s programs that run on a regular basis. There are also many special events that include the children throughout the year.
Nursery Program
Safe and loving care is provided to infants and toddlers aged 0-3 in our nursery. Little ones engage in fun and playful activities with toys and games that can include elements from child-friendly Bible stories.
Children in Worship
Children aged 3 and up are welcome to join the full congregation for worship. Following the opening part of the service and the passing of the peace, the children generally move into their own worship space each week. In Children’s Worship we have chosen a different orientation to Sunday morning. Through the Godly Play curriculum, our intention is to draw the children into a time of worship and wonder. We focus on the stories of our faith, children’s faith-based questions, and religious celebrations in a variety of creative ways (e.g. story-telling, personal exploration of story resources, crafts, and songs). Parent participation, suggestions, and feedback are welcomed and appreciated! Children may join in Children’s Worship at any point during the year.
Youth
As kids grow up their needs and interests during Sunday worship changes. That’s why Manor Road has a special Youth worship time for those ages 10 and up. The youth choose the focus for each season and our Youth Leader guides them through the deeper questions and conversations that arise from this age group. Youth also meet for social events like games, movie nights and lazer tag. Youth also contribute to the life of the congregation by reading during worship, singing and volunteering at church events.
Children & Youth Events
We plan a number of events with our children and youth throughout the year. These include worship events such as Advent candlelighting, Children’s Choir, Christmas and Palm Sunday presentations, and a Christmas Eve family service. Community social events include an Easter Egg Hunt, Santa’s Pancake Breakfast, children’s activities at our Annual Fall Fair, and participation in our annual variety show, called Blue Radish.
Kids Night Out
A special evening at church just for the kids! Kids Night Out is a monthly drop-off event that gives children aged 3 to 12 an opportunity to enjoy games, crafts and dinner with their friends. Parents drop off their kids at the church and then return at the end of the event. We order pizza for everyone who is registered so please be sure to let us know your kids are coming! Kids Night Out is run by our children’s ministry staff as well as teen and adult volunteers. It’s a treat for both kids and parents! Information on the next Kids Night out is under “Events”.
Messy Church
It’s a whole new kind of church, fun for the whole family. Invite your friends, bring your kids or grand kids, and come for a monthly fun-packed all-ages event. After enjoying a meal together, we will explore our theme of the evening through creative activities, crafts, stories, songs and prayers. Donations to cover our costs are encouraged. Kids love coming to church to get messy! Information on our next Messy Church is under “Events”.
Manor Road Community Children’s Choir
Come join us throughout the year for the Manor Road Community Children’s Choir. It’s an open and inclusive group that uses an active and fun approach to developing musical skills through games, movement, and of course, singing! Through performance opportunities in a wide variety of music – from pop to classical – children can grow their confidence and abilities. The choir runs from September to June and children are welcome to join at anytime. Open to children ages 6-10 years old. For more information, please email Allison, our Children’s Minister, at manorroadkids@gmail.com.
