Nursery
The Christ Church nursery is open during Sunday morning services from 8:45 to 12:15. It is also open for certain other church events as noted in the bulletin. Babies and toddlers through age 2 are welcome in the nursery. Questions? Call Carolyn Petersen, Christ Church Nursery Administrator, 952-894-9956.
FAQs:
Q: Do I need to leave my baby in the nursery?
A: That's up to you. Children are welcome in the service, and it's a great opportunity for parents to teach children to worship. We do recognize that children have different limits before they become distractions. You may bring a child to the nursery at any point during the service. Infants to about 5 months usually remain with their parents for the entire service.
Q: Is there a place to nurse my baby?
A: Yes! There is a separate room inside the nursery with comfortable rockers for nursing. Moms can use this room as needed. There is a TV monitor in the room so you don't have to miss the service.
Q: Where can I change diapers?
A: There are two changing tables available in the nursery. They may be used at any time.
Q: I forgot to bring my diaper bag. What can I do?
A: Although it's preferable to bring your own labeled diaper bag, the nursery is stocked with diapers, pull-ups, and wipes.
Q: My child had an accident with a snack, diaper, etc. Are there any clothes I can borrow?
A: Yes! There are some clothes available for borrowing, sizes 3 months through adult. If you borrow something, please wash and return it as soon as you can.
Q: My 2-year old is ready for Sunday School. Do I need to come back and take him to class myself?
A: No. Tell the nursery workers that your child should attend Sunday School, and attach a "Sunday School" tag to the child's name tag. Nursery workers will take the children to Sunday School at the appropriate time.
Q: My child is having a separation problem. Can I stay in the nursery?
A: Yes, for a while. You may stay and try to get your child interested in a toy, but you should leave after a few minutes. Just about every child cries with separation problems at some point. We are used to it! If your child is inconsolable, someone will come and get you. You may also peep in through the hall window periodically, but please don't let the children see you, or several of them will begin to cry thinking it's time to go.
Q: My child is 3 years old and just can't handle being in the service. Can he stay in the nursery?
A: In general, no. It's only 30 minutes until Sunday School begins. However, you may ask the nursery staff if they are willing to take the child. Their willingness will depend on how many children are already in the nursery, the ages of the children in the nursery, and whether or not your child has enough self-control not to injure the smaller children. If you have a child with developmental problems, please contact Carolyn Petersen to discuss a long-term solution.
Q: Are snacks served in the nursery?
A: Yes. Typically, either cheddar cheese Goldfish crackers or Cheez-its are served. If your child cannot have these snacks, please inform the nursery workers and attach a "No Snacks" tag to your child's name tag. Please do not bring your own snacks into the nursery. Nursery workers will give bottles and sippy cups at your request. Please label all bottles and cups.
Q: Can my child take a nap during the service?
A: We can sure try! There are a few cribs available in an adjacent room inside the nursery. You are welcome to put your child down yourself. Please instruct the nursery workers whether or not you want them to allow the child to cry for a while before taking the child out of the crib. We will do our best, but there may not be enough workers to have one dedicated to rocking your child to sleep.
Q: I am just visiting for a week. I know my child won't do well in a strange nursery. Can his older sister or cousin stay in the nursery with him?
A: In most instances, yes. A well-behaved older child may stay in the nursery with a baby for one week.
Q: Can I leave a child with a cold in the nursery?
A: Please don't! The other families wouldn't appreciate that. You may sit with your child in the lobby and watch the service on the TV monitors. You may borrow toys and books from the nursery if you need to. If your child has a clear runny nose that you are nearly certain is due to teething, you may leave the child, but please inform the nursery workers.
Q: Who works in the nursery?
A: Loving parents and volunteers who are members of Christ Church staff the nursery. All workers must complete a Children's Ministry Application and be accepted before working in the nursery. Workers must be at least 16 years old; helpers must be at least 12 years old. Helpers are not allowed to carry or change infants.
Q: If I use the nursery, do I need to volunteer?
A: That would be great! All parents who use the nursery and are not Sunday School teachers or on the Worship Team are asked to volunteer - dads too! Please note that you must be a member of Christ Church to work in the nursery.
