Many congregations are expressing a desire to engage more effectively with Playgroup families and other families with children aged 0 to 5. Both Joy Williams (the Synod Early Childhood Consultant) and Chris Barnett (the Synod Children and Families Ministry Coordinator) are available to assist congregations in developing their ministry with pre-school children. Joy’s role includes supporting congregations in the development and management of playgroups, child care and kindergartens. Joy has a strong commitment to ensuring that the programs are of good quality and meet the needs, and support, the local community where they are situated. Chris’ role includes the missional aspect of Playgroups and he is passionate about congregations developing integrated strategies that assist families of pre-schoolers connect more deeply with their local faith community. Both Joy and Chris play a significant role as part of the Christian Playgroup Network executive – ensuring the Uniting Church is well represented in the vital area of pre-school ministry.

In addition to longstanding activities such as Kindergartens and Playgroups, more and more congregations are exploring the possibilities of newer programs such as “mainly music”, “Music Together” and “Toolbox” Parenting Programs. Information on these and other great resources are available via “Useful Links” section of the Uniting Church Children & Families Ministry website. Congregations, too, are creatively developing specific worship opportunities for families with pre-schoolers. By way of example, “Stepping Stones” is a half hour worship time for pre-schoolers and their carers at Mt. Eliza Uniting. Held in the church on the first and third Fridays of the month from 9.30-10am, it is a time with Bible stories (OT stories as well as following the life, works and message of Jesus), prayers and worship songs specifically written for small children. For more information on “Stepping Stones”, see the article in the most recent edition of Explore.           

Feel free to contact Chris or Joy regarding your congregations current or future plans with regard to ministry with families with children 0-5.

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