Helping Kids Behave During Religious Ceremonies

Get Your Kids to Behave in Church or Synagogue

March 22, 2008

My grandma used to pinch her children if they moved a centimeter or made a noise in church. My mom used to allow me to draw on the offering envelopes with the matched up pencil.

Since Easter and Passover are upon us, here are some tips to help you get through the worshiping hours without devilish screams or whining.

To see what the secret weapons are, read more.

Small notepad or coloring book.
Crayons.
Snack like raisins, Goldfish or Cheerios.
Books.
Favorite stuffed animal.
Nothing — let them be bored.

Maybe your tot is wise beyond his years and can understand the diatribe being espoused from the pulpit. But until then, help the adults and families around you enjoy the divine moments by keeping your babe content.

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10 Comments

snarkypants 5 years 8 weeks

i agree wmnslibr. the definition of diatribe is an bitter attack toward something or somebody. i hope that wasn't the word you were actually looking for babysugar!

wmnslibr 5 years 9 weeks

I think the phrase "diatribe being espoused from the pulpit" is rather harsh. If you feel that way, why are you attending services at all? From my experience you get out of your church attendance what you put into it, and if it's just somewhere to sit for an hour every week, then your time could be used elsewhere for better purposes.

sofi 5 years 9 weeks

I have to admit we avoid church a lot because of the hassle it is to try and make our two little ones sit still and not make too much noise. The thing is our priest is terrific and wants kids to be there and be heard- he basically scolds people for not appreciating the children's 'music' as he puts it. I have to make more of an effort otherwise they will never learn. We always have a snack or two with a sippy cup of juice. I usually bring books and a small toy, but tomorrow I will pack a notepad and a few crayons. I've got to get myself geared up for this- yikes!!

stefsprl 5 years 9 weeks

Our church has kids' classes for newborn through fifth grade during the service in lieu of Sunday school...it's nice because parents have the choice of putting their kids in a class (where they usually have more fun anyway and learn a more age-appropriate lesson) or taking them into worship with them.

luvhouse07 5 years 9 weeks

My parents had to drag me kicking and screaming to go to church.. finally gave up :P

SusanTeufel 5 years 9 weeks

My Mom always let me bring a notepad to draw and do things with... I think crayons and coloring books tend to be a bit much for the sake of dropping and losing crayons/markers. Never bring markers, I say, seeing they bleed through a lot of things. (though the ones that only draw on the special paper are interesting) Kids will be kids.

SusanTeufel 5 years 9 weeks

My Mom always let me bring a notepad to draw and do things with...I think crayons and coloring books tend to be a bit much for the sake of dropping and losing crayons/markers. Never bring markers, I say, seeing they bleed through a lot of things. (though the ones that only draw on the special paper are interesting) Kids will be kids.

JennyJen 5 years 9 weeks

I also bring a drink and a pacifier for our 18 month old. But books and drawing are our big distraction tools. She goes to church with me just about every week. My theory is that I try and keep her quiet, but if she makes a little noise - there is nothing I can do about it. If she gets really loud we just get up and leave. However - it really irritates me when people get angry about a child making a little noise at religious services. I mean what is the option - to have kids with no religion - AKA no church in a few years or allowing them to experience things and learn why they are there - no matter how young.

JennyJen 5 years 9 weeks

LaPerla 5 years 9 weeks

i like "let them be bored". That was truly a learning experience for me. Just being bored in the world of adults.

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