Children & Teens

Weekly Programs

NURSERY (0-3 YEAR OLDS)

A young girl with curly hair, wearing a white shirt with colorful patterns, black shorts, and white crocs, reaching out towards a bird bath in a garden area with plants, a brick building, and a patio in the background.

Our nursery is a safe, playful space where little ones are cared for with attention and love.

Childcare is available on Sundays from 9:00–11:45 a.m. You’re also welcome to keep your child with you in worship. We’re glad they’re here!

FIRSTKids (PreK - 6th Grade)

Two young girls are planting flowers in a garden bed, with their hands and gardening tools in the soil. They are crouched down close to the ground, surrounded by green plants and flowers. An adult is partially visible, assisting. The scene is outdoors on a sunny day.

On Sunday mornings, children begin worship with the whole congregation. During the Conversation with the Children, they’re invited forward in the sanctuary to sit on the chancel steps for a brief conversation led by Lizzie, our Director of Education.

After that, they head to our third-floor classrooms for age-appropriate learning including stories, music, drama, videos, games, and more.

FIRSTKids is for PreK–6th grade and ends at 11:45 a.m. Parents and family members are always welcome to join. On most Sundays, our Children’s Choir (for fluent readers) rehearses until noon following Sunday school.

TEENS (6th - 12th GRADE)

Children wearing safety vests and gloves collecting and bagging leaves outside near a brick building.

Teenagers are full of questions as they explore faith and what it means in their own lives. At First Central, we walk alongside them as guides and partners. FIRSTYouth, for 6th–12th graders, meets (almost) weekly during the school year for dinner and activities from 6:00–7:30(ish).

Teens also participate in Confirmation, a meaningful step in their faith journey. In the United Church of Christ, Confirmation is inclusive and open to all beliefs. It’s a time to reflect, ask questions, affirm baptismal promises, and take ownership of faith within a supportive Christian community. Critical thinking, personal reflection, and a commitment to justice and service are central to the process.

WE BELIEVE FAITH IS SOMETHING TO GROW INTO - NOT SOMETHING TO MEMORIZE. WITH OUR CHILDREN AND TEENS, WE CREATE SPACE FOR BIG QUESTIONS, DEEP BELONGING, AND STORIES THAT SHAPE COURAGEOUS, COMPASSIONATE LIVES.

In addition to weekly programs, throughout the year our young people gather for summer camp, VBS, the Christmas program, park playdates, hiking trips, and intergenerational traditions like the All Church Retreat, Homecoming Picnic, and Thanksgiving Dinner.

Group of five children standing outdoors in front of a sign that reads 'KALEO LUAU' with smaller text 'OBBER DUCKY REGATTA', under a large tree with a forested background.

Have more questions? Contact Lizzie Patterson at education@firstcentral.org.