This morning at church I was so encouraged by something. My son found a piece of quartz. He excitedly showed me and then ran around our church courtyard showing everyone (kids, parents, older adults, everyone) his "mineral." That was cute enough on it's own, but what made me smile was watching the response of my church. They welcomed him, they rejoiced with him over the rock. In short, they know and love my son, and that makes me happy as a mom. One church member even sent me a pic she snapped of several of the church boys happily digging for stones in their Sunday best.
Let's face it, we live in a culture where children are often seen as inconveniences—too loud, too messy, too distracting. Sadly, it’s easy for the church to unconsciously mirror those attitudes. We live in a world of “adults only” events, viral complaints about babies on airplanes, and subtle (or not-so-subtle) messages that children are best seen and not heard.
But the church has an opportunity to be something radically different!
What if the church became the place where children were not marginalized, not merely tolerated, but deeply welcomed and loved—just as Jesus welcomed them?
Jesus Welcomed Children—So Should We
In Mark 10, we see a striking picture of how Jesus treated children:
“And they were bringing children to him that he might touch them, and the disciples rebuked them. But when Jesus saw it, he was indignant and said to them, ‘Let the children come to me; do not hinder them, for to such belongs the kingdom of God.’” (Mark 10:13–14, ESV)
Jesus didn’t just allow children in His presence—He delighted in them. He rebuked His disciples for shooing them away. He made space for them. He laid His hands on them. He blessed them.
What a stunning contrast to the world around us. Jesus’ welcome of children was not simply sentimental—it was theological. He saw their value. He declared their worth. And He called His people to learn from their faith.
As the church, we have an opportunity to reflect this same posture—to be a place that welcomes children in Jesus’ name.
More Than Just Childcare: The Church Is for Them Too
Welcoming children isn’t just about having a nursery or running a kids’ ministry (though those are important!). It’s about the posture of the whole church community. When children walk through the doors of our churches, they should know they belong—not just because someone printed name tags for their class, but because the people of God see them and love them.
Here are a few simple, practical ways we (the whole church) can start showing children that church is for them too:
1. Learn Their Names
There is something powerful about being known by name. Jesus is the Good Shepherd who calls His sheep by name (John 10)—and we can follow His lead by learning the names of the children in our church.
Say their names when you greet them. Mention their names in prayer. Show them that they are not “that little one tagging along with Mom”—they are a valued part of the church family.
2. Stoop Down and Look Them in the Eyes
Physically lowering yourself to a child’s level is a small act that makes a big impact. It communicates, “You matter to me.” It removes the barrier of height and power and meets children with dignity and presence.
When we kneel, sit, or squat to make eye contact with a child, we model the humility and gentleness of Christ Himself.
3. Greet the Whole Family (Including the Kids)
So often, our greetings are directed to the adults in the family: “Hi John and Sarah!” Meanwhile, the kids are overlooked. What if we made a habit of greeting every member of the family—no matter how small?
Ask children about their week. Comment on their artwork from Sunday School. Praise their participation in worship. Show them they are seen and celebrated.
4. Be Patient with Their Wiggles and Whispers
Children are growing, learning, and (yes) oftentimes wiggly. But church should not be the place where they are constantly shushed and shamed.
Be patient. Extend grace. Welcome their presence even when it’s not perfectly polished. Remember—Jesus welcomed children with all their energy and noise. We can too.
5. Let Them See Worship and Be Invited In
Whether children stay in the service or have their own class, make space for them to see and hear the people of God worshiping. Invite them to sing. Include a short kid-focused moment in the service. Let them see that worship is not just for grown-ups—it’s for them too.
A Counter-Cultural Witness
In a world that sidelines children, the church has the opportunity to stand out. We can be the community that says with our actions what Jesus said with His words: “Let the children come to me.”
This kind of welcome is not just good for the children. It is good for us. It reminds us of the childlike faith we are called to. It softens our hearts. It shapes our culture into one of grace, warmth, and belonging.
When we stoop low to greet a child, learn their name, or patiently listen to their stories, we are not just being kind—we are bearing witness to the gospel.
So let’s be the church that welcomes children. Not as distractions, not as background noise, not as little tag-alongs, but as treasured members of the body of Christ.
Because Jesus welcomes them—and so should we.
A printable version of this article with discussion questions is available here - perfect for your next staff meeting or volunteer training. [This is part of our "Back-to-Sunday-School" Series of Training articles.