A Personal Note about Ministering to and Including
Special Needs Children in Worship:

Ministry is of utmost importance to a special needs
child. The joy, warmth and fellowship of being in a
worship service should be a highlight to their week.

A church should accept all children with open arms.

If a child is able to be in regular worship without
disrupting, invite and allow the child to be present. If
not, design a room especially for children with special
needs. (This would be a great project for a Sunday
School class. Get the input of people who have direct
knowledge of children with special needs.)

The room should be an inviting and happy place. Use
bright colors, but not over-stimulating. Keep it
welcoming, but simple (most special needs children have
low tolerance for over-stimulating environments).  Play
fun, worshipful songs, but remember that some children
have sensitive hearing. Keep the volume in check by
noting their expressions and reactions. Most
importantly, ask primary caregivers for input regarding
the child's tolerance levels.

Read the Bible and pray out loud. Be sure to include a
prayer for the parents and/or caregivers, including
doctors, teachers, daycare workers, grandparents, etc.

There are many ways for a child with special needs to
take part in worship:
Clapping
Ringing Bells
Gentle Movements (Get permission from parents. May
need assistance.)
Prayer
Find ways to include them in special programs and plays.
Sundays were one of our FAVORITE
days!  Dana was present for many
treasured lessons, including a series on
the 10 Commandments. The lessons
featured coloring pages for each
commandment, a song, and applications
suited for a child's level of thinking. This
laid a foundation for her spiritual
nourishment!
Keep an open heart and mind regarding ways to minister to
children with special needs...

KEY ELEMENTS:
BEFORE BEGINNING... ASK A MEDICAL EXPERT

Always get clearance from medical professionals before
involving special needs children in physical activities.

Get advice on appropriate noise levels, colors, lighting, etc.

Flashing lights can cause over-activity in the brain of some
special needs children. This could cause negative or
potentially serious effects. Everything in moderation!

Mainstream by inviting other children to join the class on a
regular basis. Perhaps one Sunday a month or more!

This teaches ministry for all!
  • Music
  • Singing
  • Clapping
  • Prayer
  • Bible Reading
  • Coloring
  • Sunlight