Visiting a church

Introducing young children to a strange building, probably larger than any they have been inside before, which can be dark and forbidding, cold and unwelcoming, needs careful preparation. Choosing summer rather than winter time to make such a visit, and trying to ensure that it is a welcoming experience perhaps by choosing a time when there will be flowers and decorations, and taking seriously children's fears about it can all help. Do not assume that children have been inside a church before -often they have not, even in a village where they must have walked past it everyday. For church schools there can be the opportunity to involve the children in festivals at church in some way which allows their parents also to take part so that they become familiar and at home in those surroundings.

Stilling exercises can be an interesting way of introducing children to the special atmosphere of the church as a place of worship.

If at all possible, try to make the class visit when the Vicar can be there and talk about his working environment, or when other church members (parents if possible) can be there to help. It is often easier to go around a church building in small groups rather than as a whole class and here additional assistance from the congregation can be invaluable