Attending General Assembly is a priority for many, but worrying about child care could hinder some Disciples from attending. Thankfully, the local arrangements committee of the Indiana region anticipated the needs of families and provided childcare for children age 5 and younger. The quality care eliminated parents’ stress and frustration of about daycare.
With a few plates and spoons and a lot of creativity, the preschool-aged children morphed basic tableware into colorful, flying doves. Just to the left, clay hearts were created and sitting out to dry. These crafts were fun for the kids but they also represent some of the key principles of Christianity-peace and love. The kids will also make personalized craft bags to tote all their fun creations home.
Five-year old Boris from Oklahoma, said his favorite parts of child care were naptime, reading books and making new friends.
Head teacher volunteer Elizabeth Graft from Wabash Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in Wabash, Ind. enjoyed volunteering with the children.
“This is the first time I brought my daughter to an assembly where I even aware that childcare was available,” she said. “And now I also get to be here for the other kids.”
On the other side of the wall children aged two and younger were busy playing with Playskool kitchen sets and other toys. Watch a photo slide show of children at the Assembly >>
First -time volunteer Lori Altizer from North Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in Fort Wayne, Ind. enjoyed the experience of interacting with the children.
The preschool child care was available from Wednesday at 5 p.m.until Saturday.
“I just love the children,” Altizer said. “It’s been so neat to spend time with them.”
Parents appreciated the opportunity to leave their children in the hands of caring adults to attend learning tracks, business worship and resource groups child-free.
Rebecca Hardin-Nieri was pleased with the care that was given to her children, Nico and Olivia, 2 ½ and 5 ½ years old respectively.
“It’s a gift to us because there are few times that Scott and I can go to worship together without the kids, “ Hardin-Nieri, a member of Heart of the Rookies Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) said. “There are great blessings happening. But the children also are included in worship. The kids area during worship is great.”
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By: Leslie McCotry
