Often parents want to take their kids to church but keeping a child quiet in church takes a real miracle. As long as the music is playing or people are walking around greeting one another, everything is fine. However, the minute the pastor steps to the podium to start his sermon, watch out! It is as though children have been secretly programmed to come alive when things around them get quiet.
You really hate to miss church, but you just are not sure what to do. While you cannot be guaranteed that a giggle or “I need to go to the potty” will not slip out, there are things you can do to lower the risk! Keeping things under control can be as simple as being prepared. You can put a “church” bag together that is specially organized for church. In fact, as you start putting this bag together, incorporate your child’s ideas. If your child is too young, then think of some of their favorite things.
Everyone knows that children like to eat. Bringing candy or treats filled with sugar will only make things worse. As the sugar gets into their system, their level of activity will almost immediately double. Instead, prepare a couple of small bags of non-sweetened cereals such as Cheerios or puffed wheat. Stay away from crayons and markers or the entire pew will be repainted in no time! In place of these, try a miniature Etch-o-Sketch. Children also love looking at pictures. If you have some small photo albums, consider changing photos out so each time you go, there will be something new to look at.
If your child was quiet and behaved one week, be sure to reward them. No, this is not bribery, but a way of showing appreciation. When you do good job at work, you get a raise, or if you lose 10 pounds, perhaps you would buy yourself something new. You did not think of it as bribery then, right? It is the same for your child. When they succeed at something that is difficult for their age, reinforce their efforts.
Books are another great thing to add to your bag. As a reward, you might stop by a local retail store and have your child pick out a new book that can be packed for the next week. Your child will be excited knowing that they have something new to look at, making them eager to go to church. By being prepared in taking your child to church, you’re actually teaching them several things.
Although your child is not learning anything from the sermon yet, they are learning to act appropriately in public places. In other words, they are learning respect. Each week of success brings more and more self-confidence. They realize that they can control themselves and be rewarded and appreciated when they do. There is an old cliché, “Kids will be kids!” Do not expect perfection and be patient with them. The result will be a well-behaved child!