A Place of Safe and Loving Care
UPC employs paid Nursery Caregivers in addition to two Nursery Coordinators to provide the consistency and dependability needed for our infants and young children. The Children’s Ministry Committee oversees the nursery.
If you enjoy caring for children, experiencing the gifts of wonder and delight they hold, you are encouraged to speak to a representative of the Children’s Ministry Committee or to the Associate Pastor for Family Ministry, because there are times throughout the year when we can use extra volunteers.
Children and Worship
Like most of life, one learns to worship by practicing worship. This is especially true for children. Being in the sacred space of the sanctuary helps children to recognize that we come together to praise and sing, to pray and listen to God. These are not always easy lessons to learn, so we invite parents to ease their children into the worship experience by bringing them to worship for a brief part of the service. Near the beginning of the service is a special time for children (intended for three-years-old through third grade) to gather at the Chancel steps with one of the pastors to hear a word about the Bible story or topic of the day. Then those who are not ready to remain in the service can be taken to the nursery by a parent. UPC offers Godly Play for Kindergartners and children who are age four by September 1 of the current program year.
The number one priority for the Nursery Staff of UPC is the safety of all children in our care. Parents are asked to be sure to SIGN IN and SIGN OUT as you drop off and pick up your child.
Nurseries Available During Worship
UPC enjoys two Sunday morning worship services throughout the year. During the 8:30 and 11:00 services childcare is provided for walkers through four-year-olds on the first floor (from the Sanctuary: through the door nearest the baptismal font and then downstairs). During the program year (September through May) childcare is also offered during the 9:45-10:45 education hour.
Infant Room (Room 130)
When it comes to infants and young children, faith formation is nurtured by the caregivers who provide loving care and a safe environment. The Infant Room is a warm and welcoming place where parents will feel comfortable leaving their child.
Walkers to 3 Year Old Room (Room 134)
When a child begins to need more space for exploring and toddling around, he/she is welcomed into the room for walkers and toddlers. Here the nursery staff are engaging children in creative play and helping them to explore the holy world around them.
Nurseries During the Education Hour
Beginning at 9:30, parents can bring their infants and toddlers to the nursery (Room 134) while they participate in adult education opportunities (9:45-10:45). We offer goldfish as a snack for the children, or they are always welcome to bring a snack from home.
