Children's Religious Exploration

At Harrisonburg Unitarian Universalists, we grow curious, compassionate kids by exploring life’s big questions through stories, service, art, and play – in a supportive spiritual community where every child and family belongs.

Children and families are welcome at HUU! We have a growing and vibrant Children’s Religious Exploration (CRE) program, serving toddlers through teens.

During service (10:30am-11:30am), childcare is available in our Toddler Room. Older children stay with parents for the first 10-15 minutes of service, then they go with our adult leaders to Explorer's Class in the CRE building until the end of service. During Explorer's Class, children participate in developmentally appropriate activities that reflect our Unitarian Universalist values. Tweens and teens often choose to remain in service, though sometimes they also enjoy joining the Explorer's class for activities or to be helpers.  

Throughout the year, we also offer family-oriented events including picnics, game nights, and campfire nights.

Parents are welcome to contact Kim Newton, Director of Children's Religious Exploration, with any questions they may have about our program before visiting.

FAQs:

Is childcare available during the worship service?

Yes! Before service begins at 10:30am, families with toddlers and young children can use our Toddler Room. During service, at least 2 adults or 1 adult and 1 teen helper supervise the toddlers until the end of service.

Are children welcome to stay in the worship service?

Yes! Children are welcome to stay with their parents. Children may remain seated with parents or explore our Peace Corner, which is an area especially set up for use by children and their parents. In the first 15 minutes of service, all young children are invited to gather in the Peace Corner together, where they are accompanied by our Director of CRE or another volunteer.

When do older children go to CRE class?

​​Children and youth stay with their parents in service for the first 10-15 minutes. Each service features a special children’s minute when we might read a book related to the service theme or share a story or song. After this, children and youth, our "Explorers", are led by our CRE adult leaders to the CRE building, just behind our main sanctuary.

What happens during CRE class?

When children first gather in the CRE building, we enjoy a brief snack and check in time. During our time together, we help children explore the tenets that Unitarian Universalists hold dear; we encourage them to articulate their beliefs and values in a supportive atmosphere and through developmentally appropriate activities. Each month, we investigate different themes to help better understand our roots as Unitarian Universalists as well as explore varied world religious beliefs and practices. The Unitarian Universalist Association provides a curriculum, “Soul Matters”, which we use alongside games, songs, crafts, and outdoor activities.

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When does the CRE program run?

This program runs from September through August each year. In June and July, activities are more relaxed as we try to maximize time outdoors and summer fun!

Are there participation requirements?

Our CRE program offers both a toddler class and an Explorer's class for elementary to middle school-aged children. Explorer's class participants need to be able to use the restroom independently. Parents of toddlers will be contacted if a change is needed. Please do not send your child to CRE programs if they have experienced fever or vomiting within the last 24 hours.

What safety precautions does the program follow?

At least 2 approved adults supervise children during our CRE program. If we have enough attendance to require more than one class, an approved adult may circulate between classes to satisfy our supervision requirements. Before working with children, approved adults must complete an application, reference check, background check, and training session.

What happens if my child doesn't want to participate?

We take into account each child’s unique personality and allow them to participate as they feel comfortable. We reinforce that all people are important and are to be treated with kindness and respect. Children and youth are free to choose not to participate in CRE if they are not comfortable. There are child friendly books and toys in the Toddler Room if a parent feels more comfortable listening to the service while supporting their child. Parents are also welcome to accompany their children to the CRE building and stay for the duration of the service if they wish, though parents will not be asked to supervise activities.

Do you offer intergenerational or all-ages services?

Our congregation aims to help children feel connected and included in services. To this end, the children and youth participate in occasional all-ages services, which are intentionally designed to be inclusive of children. Children are also included in all congregational functions such as pot-luck lunches, holiday events, and other regular gatherings.

How can I volunteer for the CRE program?

We welcome and encourage parents of children who participate in CRE to volunteer regularly. Before working with children, approved adults must complete an application, reference check, background check, and training session.