First KIDS Programming


First Church believes that all children are deeply spiritual beings capable of having deep relationships with God. Children are important to Jesus, not only as students to be taught, but also as teachers of those in their circle.  First Church strives to raise our children up in the faith, equipping them to be Salt & Light.

 

Through all of our children’s programming at First Church, we use the A Time For Children model for growing our younger disciples, as originated by Rev. Dr. Leanne Hadley.  At the core of this teaching model, children are taught that they are true blessings from God, blessed to be a blessing to all they meet.  In addition, we strive to always connect  with the heart of God, not just learn about God. 

   

Our Grace program is made up of children in grades Kindergarten through 5th grade. Grace meets monthly between Labor Day and Memorial Day, usually on a Sunday after worship each month, with a few exceptions.  All elementary school children are welcome - church membership is not a requirement!  Grace does several mission projects throughout the year.

  • Weekly | Sunday Morning | Sunday School

     We have Sunday School every Sunday, during the school year and during the summer.  Come as you are, and join a class at 9:15am.  In class, we learn about Jesus, study the Bible, and occasionally we throw in a party!  Our Sunday School curriculum is from Sparkhouse,  which addresses stories with humor and fun activities in each lesson.  

  • Weekly | Sunday Morning | Rainbow Corner

    Rainbow Corner is the spot for Kids in the Sanctuary during worship on Sunday mornings!  Find the low tables and chairs on the east side of the space, and we have a different activity each week.  We love having our Kids with us during the service, and we want them to engage in ways that are fun for them.  

  • Weekly | Sunday Morning | Nursery

    The Nursery is available for babies and toddlers that are not quite ready for Sunday school nor Worship.  It opens at 9:00am, and stays open until after Worship (10:30-11:30am).  Go to the Nursery and leave your adorables with our loving staff.   

  • Monthly | Grace

    Our Grace program is made up of children in grades Kindergarten through 5th grade. Grace meets monthly between Labor Day and Memorial Day, usually on a Sunday after worship each month, with a few exceptions.  All elementary school children are welcome - church membership is not a requirement!  Grace does several mission projects throughout the year.  We especially like to help with Children's Hunger Fund!

  • Summer | Vacation Bible School

    Vacation Bible School is our popular one-week program in mid-July that is an immersive experience designed to connect children with God in a fun way.  Our next VBS is July 7-11, 2025.  Registration will open in late May.  We use Cokesbury curriculum for our VBS, and this year's theme is ROAD TRIP. Every child is invited to come to VBS, not just church members!


    https://www.fumctc.mycokesburyvbs.com


    Vacation Bible School: July 7-11, 2025

  • Other Annual Events

    Stay tuned througout the year for these special events, designed specifcally for our young disciples!

    • Easter Egg Hunt (April 13, 2025 @ 3pm)
    • Water Party (May 18, 2025)
    • Bridgeport Summer Camps (Summer)
    • Vacation Bible School (July 7-11, 2025))
    • Blessing of the Backpacks (August)
    • Back to School (August)
    • Trunk or Treat (October 26, 2025)
    • Christmas Party (December)

  • PNO: Parents Night Out

    Parents, you have the opportunity for a very special night off without the kids. Go out, enjoy a dinner, or just stay home and prop your feet up. FUMCTC is hosting a Parent's Night Out on Friday evening, Feb. 14 from 5:30pm-8:30pm in the Sanctuary of FUMCTC. 


    Certified adults and volunteer youth will take care of your child or children. They will have dinner, play games, make crafts, and enjoy snacks. 


    Cost: $20 a child or a max of $50 for a family. 

    Register today at the link on the events page: www.fumctc.org/events or email Amy Reddoch with any questions. 

To learn more about our Children's Ministry programs or about how you can get involved in developing young disciples, please contact Amy.Reddoch@fumctc.org