How to Get Kids to Behave in Church

A true test of a child's behavior is the church sanctuary -- sitting still, quietly and solemnly for such a long time is no easy task for little ones. Your child may not understand most of what the minister says, making church even less interesting to him. Parents often worry about their child's behavior in the pews since any misbehavior is so easily noticed. Every little squawk or bang is met with prying eyes from other parishioners. With a little practice and direction, your child can improve his church behaviors so you can worship as a family.

Things You'll Need

  • Bag
  • Notebook
  • Crayons
  • Pen
  • Snacks
  • Bible
  • Blanket
  • Stuffed animal

Instructions

    • 1

      Evaluate the church's offerings to find the best service if the church has more than one time. Look for a casual or family-friendly service. If all services are the same, choose a time that best matches your child's mood. If he gets crabby by late morning, attend the early service.

    • 2

      Pack a bag with items to help your child focus. Bring a notebook and crayons or pens so he can draw or write. Pack snacks in case he gets hungry. Let him bring his own Bible if he wants. Grab his favorite blanket or stuffed animal to keep him calm and comfortable.

    • 3

      Set church behavior expectations before you leave the house. Expectations for church may be different than other public places. For example, at the store your child can talk, look at things and walk around, but at church he needs to sit still and stay quiet during the service. Tell him exactly how you want him to act.

    • 4

      Create signals to use as reminders when your child misbehaves at church. For example, if he gets too noisy, put your finger to your lips. If he needs to sit down, point to the pew. Give him signals he can use as well. Make up a secret way he can signal if he needs to go to the bathroom, or isn't feeling well. This allows you to communicate without yelling or talking loudly in the sanctuary.

    • 5

      Arrive at the church early so you don't have to rush to your seats. Take a relaxed walk around the building, or let him run around in the churchyard to burn off energy.

    • 6

      Satisfy your child's basic needs before heading in for the church service. Take him to the restroom. If he still wears diapers, change his diaper before the service. Let him get a drink. Offer him a snack. He is less likely to complain if he feels comfortable.

    • 7

      Sit in a spot that best matches your child's personality. If he gets loud and distracted around other kids, find a quiet spot near only adults. If he pays better attention when he's close to the action, sit up front. If you need to slip out several times during the service, sit on the end and near the back for a quick exit.

    • 8

      Involve your child in the church service as much as possible. Encourage him to sing along with the hymns. Point to the words in the scripture so he can follow along. Talk about the service afterward to get him interested in what happens during the church service.

    • 9

      Praise your child when he behaves at church. Give him a thumbs-up sign or whisper praise into his ear during the service. Tell him specific behaviors you liked after the service. Say, "I liked the way you stood up with everyone and sat down at the right time. You stayed so quiet during the service. Thank you for your great church behavior today."

    • 10

      Remove your child from the sanctuary if his behavior is unacceptable. Use the timeout to help him calm down so you can return to the service. Avoid making the time spent outside the sanctuary entertaining, or he may continue misbehaving to get another break.

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