Preschool Ministry Overview

Our Mission and philosophy
To impact newborn – kindergarten children and their families so they are able to:

*CONNECT to God and others

*GROW in knowledge and understanding through practical experiences.

*SERVE together so children discover their uniqueness and eventually God’s mission for their lives.

*WORSHIP individually and corporately in order to show our love for God through everything we do.

Children matter to God.

 

All children are special to God and need to be accepted and loved at all times. Jesus set the example, and we are clearly called to model and communicate God’s love to them.

Children need loving relationships.

We want children to build meaningful relationships with God, their peers, and the adults around them so that through these encounters they receive hope and encouragement for everyday living.

Children need a Biblical foundation.

Entering into a relationship with Jesus Christ is a process-oriented experience.  We want to lay a spiritual foundation of understanding so that when the Holy Spirit begins to move in the heart of a child, he or she will be prepared to make an informed decision about accepting Jesus Christ as personal Savior.

Children need are-appropriate application.

We are dedicated to presenting the message of Jesus Christ in relevant, age-specific ways so that the principles of God’s Word provide practical ways for kids to cope in the midst of family problems, school pressures, illness, death, divorce, loneliness, fear, and the uncertainty of life.

Children need creativity and fun.

God designed children to have creative imaginations, a variety of learning styles and a desire to have fun.  We want to present the truth of God’s Word through methods which are consistent with how children are created to think and learn.

Preschool Ministry Nursery/Early Childhood

At DeSoto Hills, we value children. We seek to nurture and teach even the youngest of children, and we intentionally offer training, support, and encouragement to their families.

Children who have special needs are welcome to participate in all of our activities. We are glad to assign a one-on-one buddy through our Circle of Friends ministry.

Nurseries

Our four nurseries are available at all services on Sundays, Wednesdays, and at most special events. Located downstairs, they are staffed by over 75 volunteers who rotate monthly and offer loving, competent care for newborn and infants. Toddlers and Climbers enjoy a short bible story and related activities as well as plenty of free play.

A private are in our Cuddlers nursery is provided for the comfort of our nursing mothers.

The children are moved from one nursery to the next at the discretion of their parents and as their individual development dictate. These posted ages are merely suggested guidelines:

Cuddlers (0-7 months) Rm# 103
Crawlers (8-15 months) Rm# 104
Toddlers (15-24 months) Rm# 105
Climbers (24-36 months) Rm# 106

Children are generally promoted quarterly following their birthday.

Preschool Ministry Getting Involved

Getting Involved
Our ministry is based on relationships. We want children to grow in their relationship to God and His word. We believe that this happens best, as children are involved in relationship with other children and adults. The children you work with will look at you as a role model. We recoginze that you and those volunteers who serve with you are the foundation of a successful ministry to children. That is why we are diligent in our recruiting, interviewing, and placement process. An application can be printed from the Resources page. All information will remain confidential and be kept on file at DeSoto Hills Baptist Church.

Leader Recruitment Process

Preschool Ministry Safety and Security

Every child must be signed in and out at the classroom. There are always 2 approved caregivers in every classroom; no child is ever left alone. Systems are in place for minor injuries as well as fire and weather-related emergencies. In case the building needs to be evacuated, we ask that parents do NOT go to the classrooms, but rather meet your children in the north parking lot.

Preschool Ministry Welcome Centers

On your first Sunday at DeSoto Hills, come to the Welcome Centers in the grand hall, or Kids with Heart preschool hall.  The attendant will help you register your child for the day.  We will also escort you to the proper classrooms, answer your questions, and present a small Welcome bag of surprises to your child.