Welcome to Kid Connection!

At Sterling First Church of the Nazarene, children are loved and valued. We strive to provide a safe, fun and effective learning environment for kids of all ages.

Children explore the Bible, worship God, serve others, and most importantly, build a friendship with Jesus Christ and experience His great, big love!

Through our many exciting programs and events, our goal is to partner with parents to raise spiritually healthy children. We invite your family to get “connected” in this ministry!

 · Nursery, Available during all Sunday and Wednesday programs

We offer three nurseries for infants, 1 year-olds, and 2 and 3 year-olds. Little ones enjoy playtime and receive quality care from trained workers. Older toddlers are introduced to an age-appropriate curriculum. Age groups combine during some programs, but childcare always is provided.

Please CLICK HERE to download our parent info sheet for more information.

· Bible Quizzing, Sundays at 8:30 a.m.

Children explore Bible stories and memorize scriptures. They go to quiz meets across the Northwest Illinois District and win ribbons, trophies and camp scholarships for their efforts. Most importantly, they start hiding God’s Word in their hearts (Psalm 119:11).

There is no Bible quizzing in the summer.

· Sunday School, Sundays at 9:45 a.m.

We offer four classes for 4 and 5 year-olds, first and second graders, third and fourth graders, and fifth and sixth graders. Children learn Bible stories and enjoy special projects and activities.

· Children’s Church, Sundays at 10:45 a.m.

We offer three children’s church programs for 4 and 5 year-olds, first through fourth graders, and fifth and sixth graders.

Little ones enjoy a story, fun lesson and playtime.

Early elementary students take part in an interactive worship service with songs and a message, plus games, crafts and more. On the fourth Sunday of the month, they also learn about God’s work around the world and sometimes help with mission projects.

Preteens enjoy their own special room, where they hang out, receive an age-appropriate lesson and discuss the faith and life issues older kids face. They also lead younger children in worship.

For more information on our preteen ministry, CLICK HERE to check out our brochure.

· Bell Choir, Sundays at 10:45 a.m.

At the beginning of children’s church, kids ages 4-12 have an opportunity to play hand bells. They learn to worship God with these easy-to-play instruments, and regularly perform in worship services.

· Caravan, Wednesdays at 6:15 p.m.

Children ages 4-12 grow spiritually, socially, mentally and physically through our mid-week scouting program. After an opening ceremony, they are divided into four groups: Benson’s Buddies, Searchers, Explorers and Adventurers. There are field trips, parties, badge ceremonies and more throughout the year, plus a special dinner with families.

Caravan only is offered during the school year, but there are alternative programs in the summer.

· Events, Seasonal

Each year, we offer a summer block party and fun fair, trunk-or-treat and fall festival, Christmas musical, Easter Eggstravaganza and more! Our events are fun for the whole family, and often attract hundreds of people. Children also enjoy Vacation Bible School and Kidz Camp.