Jesus put a high value on children, “let them come to meet me … the Kingdom of Heaven belongs to them”.
Children are hardwired to be thrilled by each new day, with an instinct to play in God’s world, God’s way.
Conversely Jesus warns against causing children to become cynical and bitter.
So, it is not surprising that Churches have always been key providers of children’s clubs and services. In the UK less than half the population calls itself Christian, but well over half of all UK families with children will access and use church-based Children’s clubs and services.
Services like King’s Kiddies provide a safe play space for children, parents/grandparents/carers alike from all backgrounds and walks of life. Interactions and wisdom-sharing between adults are as important as the children’s stories and activities.
“It is delightful to watch the children play and learn at Kings kiddies whilst also a real pleasure to get to know the adults who come along”, says Nikki one of the team.
As we learn to love and develop our children we all become more loving and kinder too. Kindness is strengthened as an instinct in us as we practice it with others.
Tough civilisations and cultures value adult traits and strengths, but truly strong ones also put time into nurturing and developing the child-like joy for life that Jesus recognised as typifying the Kingdom of Heaven.
Come along any Monday morning, term time at 10am for Kings Kiddies at 9 Station Road, RG40 2AD or contact a church closer to you, the chances are it runs something similar.
Nikki and Justine for King’s Church on behalf of Churches Together in Wokingham
