Kids FAQ

Helping kids grow in faith, community, and purpose together.

At Mars Hill Kids, we believe every child has a place in God’s big story. Through age-appropriate teaching, meaningful relationships, and hands-on experiences, we invite kids to explore faith, build friendships, and discover how they’re uniquely made to love God and others. We partner with families to nurture lasting faith and create a space where all children feel seen, known, and inspired to grow.

Who is Mars Hill Kids for?

Mars Hill Kids is designed for children ages 6 months through 5th grade. 

Kids under the age of 4 will spend Sunday mornings in our Infant and Toddler hallway, where they will be cared for by volunteers, engage in optional craft activities, and learn simple Bible stories.

When kids turn 4, they transition to our Kids hallway, where they will continue to learn about their place in God’s big story.

We welcome every child regardless of behavior, ability, knowledge, or experience, and are committed to creating a space where each child feels included, valued, and safe.

What happens on Sunday mornings?

Your child will begin in the Gathering with you in the Shed for worship. After a few songs, volunteers will guide children as a group to the Kids hallway, where they will explore Bible stories, play games, create crafts, and build friendships.

At the end of the Gathering, you’ll pick up your child from the Kids hallway. We use a secure tag system, and volunteers will match tags for a safe and smooth checkout.

What will my child be learning?

We help kids discover their place in God’s big story through the development of four spiritual habits:

  • Spending Time with God: reading the Bible, praying, and learning how they personally connect with God
  • Spending Time with Others: building healthy, Christlike relationships
  • Using Their Gifts: exploring their unique talents and learning how to use them to love others
  • Sharing Their Story: learning to talk about God in authentic, everyday ways

Everything we do, from the Teaching to crafts, is built around these goals.

Is there a place for kids with disabilities or additional needs?

Yes! Our ministry is committed to welcoming all children. If your child has unique needs, please connect with us so we can partner with you and ensure they feel supported and included. We also collaborate with Embrace, our church’s inclusion ministry for disabilities and neurodiversity. Contact our Embrace Director, Trace, email embrace@marshill.org, so we can learn more about how to best support your child.

How do you keep my child safe?

Safety is our highest priority. Every volunteer interacting with your child is background checked and trained throughout the year. We use a secure check-in and check-out process with matching tags. Our classroom hallways are locked and monitored throughout the morning. 

Can I stay with my child?

If your child needs time to adjust, you are welcome to walk them to their classroom and stay briefly to help them settle in. Volunteers are ready to support transitions and make every child feel comfortable. If you’re looking to stay the entire time, we would love to welcome you to our volunteer team. We require all adults who interact with other children to complete a background check and appropriate trainings. 

How will I be notified if my child needs to be picked up early?

If our staff and volunteers determine that a child needs to be picked up early, we will send a text message to your cell phone. Please make sure you have your phone handy during the Gathering.

How old must a child be to be baptized at Mars Hill?

There is no age requirement for baptism at Mars Hill; however, we encourage children and their parents to understand what baptism means and what they choose to declare by participating in it. Classes on baptism are offered regularly to help children and adults understand what baptism is and to discern whether they are ready to participate in it.

Can I let my child[ren] participate in communion?

We partake in communion in the Shed every week after the Teaching. We practice an open table where all are welcome. We trust parents to discern whether their child is ready to take communion.

How can I stay involved?

At Mars Hill Kids, we believe parents have the biggest influence on their child’s faith. We provide activities and classes for families throughout the year, along with take-home tools, newsletters, weekly discussion questions, and opportunities for parents to serve in classrooms and stay connected with what their kids are learning. If you’re ready to volunteer, we’d love to talk more!

Who can I contact with questions?

Email our team directly at kids@marshill.org or get connected at the registration desk in the main hallway outside of the Kids classroom areas.

We’re so glad you’re here. Thank you for letting us walk alongside your family!

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