Discipleland Children

Yes — and it’s meant to be! We believe kids should enjoy learning about Jesus, because when church is boring, they don’t want to come back. That’s why Discipleland is designed to be both fun and meaningful. Kids explore a one-of-a-kind environment that includes a pond with a waterfall, a bridge to walk across, a rock climbing wall, pyramids, ocean creatures, and animals painted on the walls. Worship and teaching use engaging videos, memory verse practice is turned into a game, and every part of the experience is created to keep kids excited and involved while they learn about God’s Word.

We have a safe, nurturing room designed just for babies through preschoolers, where they can play and learn at their own pace. Discipleland itself is for kids in Kindergarten through 5th grade, with age-appropriate teaching, worship, and activities. Our goal is to meet children right where they are so every age group can grow in Christ in a way that makes sense for them.

At 1st Church, we believe parents are the primary disciplers of their children. That’s why kids stay with their families for the first half of the worship gathering, during the welcome and music. This allows children to see and participate as their parents worship Jesus — something we believe is deeply important in their spiritual growth.

After the music, just before the preaching begins, we announce that kids may be dismissed to Discipleland. A leader will guide them back, and parents are always welcome to walk with their children—or even stay with them the whole time if they wish. Children are also welcome to remain in the auditorium with their parents for the preaching if that’s what a family prefers.

At the end of the service, parents return to Discipleland to pick up their kids. For safety, children are released only to the parent or guardian who brought them, ensuring that no child ever leaves with an unauthorized adult.

Absolutely! Every children’s ministry leader has completed a background check, and we follow clear guidelines to keep kids safe. Children are only released to the parent or guardian who brought them, and never to anyone else. Parents are always welcome to pop in at any time—or even stay for the full session if that helps you and/or your child(ren) feel more comfortable. Discipleland is also equipped with security cameras that are actively monitored by our church security team. And if you’re ever needed during the service, we’ll make sure to notify you right away.

We want every child to feel safe, cared for, and included. Any treats we provide are chosen to be generally allergen-friendly, though we know there can be sensitivities to just about anything. If your child has specific allergies or medical needs, please let our leaders know when you arrive—we’ll work with you to keep them safe. Parents are always welcome to provide their own treats if that’s best. Discipleland is also wheelchair accessible, and we’re happy to make adjustments so every child can participate. Our goal is to partner with you so your child can grow in Christ in a way that fits their needs.

In Discipleland, kids get to worship through singing, learn from God’s Word, and have fun together. We use a curriculum called Elements Kids Worship, which focuses on an “Element of the Month.” Each week, kids explore a “Big Idea” connected to that element, along with a Bible lesson they can apply to everyday life. Every month also includes a memory verse—and when kids memorize it, they get to celebrate by choosing a prize from our treasure chest!

Yes! Each week your child will bring home a paper that explains the “Element of the Month,” the memory verse, the “Big Idea” for the day, and a summary of the lesson. This helps you know exactly what they’re learning so you can keep the conversation going at home. Parents are encouraged to practice the memory verse with their child during the week, since memorization is a big part of our program. In addition, every Monday we post a short follow-up podcast for parents in our Facebook group that reviews the lesson and offers practical ways to reinforce the teaching at home.

Because safety is our highest priority, all Discipleland volunteers must be members of 1st Church and complete a thorough background screening before serving. This ensures that every child is cared for in a secure and trustworthy environment. That said, parents are always welcome to attend with their child and participate alongside them. Your presence can help your child feel comfortable, and it gives you a firsthand look at what they’re learning each week.