Our Children

Children of all ages are welcomed at St Michael and All Saints Church. They are welcomed not just as offspring of the congregation but as Christians in their own right whose spiritual development is as important as that of their parents.

Younger Children (0-3)

There is an area at the side/back of the church which is set aside specifically for this age group and their parents. It contains age appropriate toys, books and writing /drawing materials and children are encouraged to play and move around without being constrained by pews and benches. As it is within the body of the church, parents can participate fully in the liturgy.

As children develop and respond to more structure, and are able to start to understand the relevance of stories, symbols and rites, they are encouraged to attend Godly Play.

Godly Play

This is an approach based on Montessori principles - a response to the child's request to 'help me to do it by myself'. This puts the teacher in the role of spiritual supporter or guide who fully accepts that each child has his/her relationship with God already.
Each session follows a similar format;

Preparation

The children are brought into the porch and gather in a circle to prepare quietly for the story. They are learning the importance of setting aside, and structuring time, as they prepare to come close to God.

Storytelling

The Biblical story is told using objects and artefacts and the group respond collectively with open questions and discussions. They then respond individually using a variety of materials - art and craft, play, writing.

Reforming

The group come together at the end of the session and finish with a prayer and blessing.

The child then rejoins his/her parents and the rest of the congregation just prior to communion.

During these sessions the children also learn and practise liturgy so they can enter more fully into the liturgical experience of the church in due course.

On a more practical note, there is space for buggies within the church and two toilets, one of which has baby changing facilities.