SPLASH KIDS

Birth - 5th Grade

Relevant, Fun and Secure

Our kids' ministry serves ages birth through fifth grade. Located on the second floor, Splash offers a secure place for children to learn that God created them and He loves them! 

5 THINGS EVERY KID NEEDS…

  • A really big God they can trust, no matter what. Our curriculum helps show kids this truth.

  • Kids need someone else who believes what they believe and a chance to connect with new friends who will help them grown in their faith.

  • They need another voice saying the same things their parents say. We provide those consistent messages through trained leaders in Splash.

  • We strive to help kids develop the ability to make wise choices based on God's word, shared in a way that makes sense to how kids view life and make decisions.

  • Kids need nosy parents who know where their kids are spiritually, so they can stay intentionally active in their spiritual growth.

THE INS & OUTS

CHECK-IN & PICK UP

Parents should check in their child at the self check-in stations on the second level at the top of the stairs. An Administrator wearing a blue name tag is available to help. Guests will complete a registration card to be entered into our system.

After check-in, children receive a name-tag sticker and parents receive a matching numbered pick-up tag, which is required for pick-up. Parents are welcome to help their child get settled, but once they are comfortable, keeping classrooms clear helps ensure safety.

Children are only released to a parent or guardian with a matching pick-up tag. If someone else will be picking up your child, a special form must be completed at the check-in desk.

DURING THE GATHERING

Each family is assigned a randomly generated number that changes weekly. If your child needs your attention, your family number will appear on the number display located on the front left wall of the church. Please report to the upstairs check-in area, where you will be directed to your child.

Splash Administrators are present at every gathering to assist with check-in, monitor classrooms, and answer questions. If you need help at any time, please see an Administrator.

SECURITY

For the safety of our children, all Splash volunteers complete an application and background check before serving. Volunteers with any history of crimes involving children are not permitted to serve.

Regular safety drills are conducted with our Security Team. In the event of an evacuation, families will reunite in the empty lot across the road behind the MAA building, where children will be supervised by trained staff.

Classrooms have locking doors for added security. The double doors are kept locked during the service.

NURSING MOMS

There is a privacy area in the “Birth to 24 Month” Room for your use during a gathering.

There is also a nursing area in the women’s restroom located in the Commons.

Splash Buddies

Splash Buddies Ministry

The Buddy Ministry is a program of our church that provides a child with a special need oneon-one support person, so the family can better participate in the mainstream programs of Freshwater Church.

What Does a Buddy Provide?

A buddy is a means of facilitating access and removing barriers that might otherwise keep someone from participating in church life. Not every person with a disability will need a buddy, nor will every buddy provide the exact same thing. Buddies provide individualized support that is as unique as the child they are serving. How a buddy serves may vary, but what a buddy provides is straightforward.

Discipleship

Learning to follow Christ as a disciple is what it means to be a Christian! A buddy proves in word and deed that people with disabilities are loved by Christ and essential to the body of Christ—they reflect Christ’s heart for people of all abilities! And more than that, they provide access to teaching, worship, and fellowship: a vital part of any believer’s walk. Buddies also allow parents, caregivers, and siblings to relax and be disciples themselves. Instead of having to stay with their child (or worry about being called every couple of minutes), parents can trust their child is being loved and cared for. A buddy serves the whole family.

Safety

Certainly, physical and mental safety is a major consideration. But buddies also provide a safety net for people who might be ignored and marginalized. A buddy serves as an advocate and bridge, bringing children with special needs from the fringes into the center of church life in a non-triggering, sensory friendly environment. A buddy helps the person with a need become a part of church life and avoid the danger of being forgotten.

Questions? Contact Nelson at 269.352.7195 or Catherine at 269.568.5879

BUDDIES APPLICATION