Lexington Fiirrsstt Uniitted Metthodist Churrch
2011
“And you must commit yourselves wholeheartedly to these commands that I
am giving you today. Repeat them again and again to your children.
Talk about them when you are at home and when you are on the road,
when you are going to bed and when you are getting up.”
- Deut. 6:6-7
“Jesus said, ‘Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them,
for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.'"
~ Matthew 19:14
special gift from God and a blessing to the church. Because of this, we at First Church seek to
provide a safe and engaging environment for our children. We want them to grow in their
knowledge of Scriptures and to build their relationship with Jesus Christ. We, as a church, partner
with parents on this journey towards a deeper relationship with Christ. However, we couldn’t
do this without the dedication of our volunteers.
Thank you for being willing to be one of those Awesome Volunteers!
If you ever have any questions or concerns give me a call or email me.
In His Service,
Bekah Franklin
Church phone: 859-233-0545
Cell phone: 859-576-0057
Email: monkeyrst@gmail.com
We are on the Web!
Find us at firstchurchkids.blogspot.com
or on Facebook at First Church Children and Families
Nursery:
Please arrive 15 to 20 minutes before the service starts. Please wear
pants and no low cut shirts. Expect to be picking up children, getting
on the floor with them, and greeting parents as they drop off and pick
up their children.
Kids Worship:
From the sanctuary the children are released at a designated time in
the service. They exit the sanctuary by the piano. Offerings children
are released after the prayer time. Our 3,4, and 5 year olds are in the
nursery area and K—2 are in room 208-209 upstairs. Expect to sing
songs with them, take children to and from the bathroom, and help
keep their attention on the story. Please wear pants and no low cut
shirts.
Sunday School:
Please arrive 15 to 20 minutes before the service starts. Expect to
sing songs with them, take children to and from the bathroom, and
help keep their attention on the story. Please wear pants and no low
cut shirts.
Life Works:
Please arrive by 5:50p.m. in room 208-209. Expect
to sing songs, take children to and from
the bathroom and keep the kids attention on
the story. Please wear pants and no low cut
shirts.
Family Retreat
Each fall we head out to Aldersgate and spend a weekend retreating
together as a family. All families are invited to this camping
experience. There are many intergeneration activities from Friday night
through Sunday morning when we end with a worship service.
Vacation Bible School
A week each summer of fun with Bible stories, crafts, games, music
and more.
Kids Day Out
Kid’s Day Out is a 3 day per week preschool for children ages 1 - 4
dedicated to building a community of learners through child-centered,
active learning experiences in a safe Christian environment. Please
call (859) 233-0545 ext. 233 and ask for Debbi French for more
information.
Other Opportunities include:
Fall Festival; Easter Egg Hunt; Palm Sunday; Craft Night; and many
other things!
Children’s Music Ministry
Celebration Ringers (grades 3-6)
Sundays, 4:00 – 4:45 in Rooms 6
Directors – Lisa Hall and Cindy Higgins
All of our children’s handbell and chime groups meet at the same time on Sunday
afternoons allowing students to be placed in the group that best suits their
developmental level. No previous musical experience is required.
Wesley Choir (grades 1-3)
Sundays, 4:45 – 5:30 p.m. in Room 201/203
Director – Lauren Collins
At this age, children are ready to begin a regular pattern of participating as a choir
in worship, which they will do every six to eight weeks. The musical focus is on
finding the true singing voice, increasing the singing and learning to match pitch.
Music literacy readiness activities based on manipulative games create an enthusiasm
for future musical growth. As the year progresses, musical skills are expanded
upon, with beginning emphasis on transferring rudimentary notation to the
written page. Time is also given to improvisation with the Orff instruments,
movement exploration and the use of hand signals as a means of learning to sight
sing.
Celebration Singers (grades 4-6)
Sundays, 4:45 – 5:30 p.m. in Room 208/209
Directors – Lisa Hall
More intensive vocal challenges and worship responsibilities are introduced at this
age level. They sing in worship every four to six weeks. Increased emphasis is
placed on the learning of musical terminology and literacy development with the
goal being usable sight singing skills. The voice is ready for more challenging
repertoire and the ear is ready for some part singing. Work with the Orff
instruments and the use of hand signals is continued.
Life Works
We have a limited time with children and as a church we have even
less! Once they get into elementary school it seems that are days get
shorter and shorter. We want to make sure that we instill in them the
main values that will last them a life time. There are three basic truths
that Life Works teaches. One is that we all need to make wise choices.
The second is that we can trust God no matter what. The third is that
we should treat others the way we would like to be treated. By the
time children are in 5th grade, we would like to see them living out
these values. In order to see this as a reality, we as a church need to
partner with you as a parent and vise versa. The bottom line is that we
both need to be repeating and reinforcing values. The only way we can
do this is if we as a church have parental support. This is through
participation in our weekly activities and talking about it throughout the
week with your children. There is no greater teacher than a parent.
In the Wednesday night program Life Works. We will be showing the
kids how Life Works, how to make wise choices, how to trust God, and
how to treat others right. We will do this through Bible Stories,
worship, Scripture, and mission’s opportunities. This will be an
intergenerational program, meaning anyone ages 3 to 110 is invited to
attend. Parents are encouraged to attend and participate with their
child. Parents will be the ones to help facilitate the small group time
with their kids and another family. We understand that there will be
times that parents won’t be able to come due to meetings and other
commitments. We will also have volunteers that will be there to help
facilitate small group time.
Wednesday Night Schedule
6:00pm – Introductions and a group game
6:20 – Worship
6:25 – Prayer and offering
6:30 – Story time!
6:55 – 7:00 – Closing words
Break Down of The Night:
Group Games/ Snack Time – We will be doing a game that all ages can
participate in. A small snack will be served. It will be a time when we can
fellowship with each other.
Worship Time – Learning about God through song. We will do a mix of praise
songs and hymns.
Prayer and Offering Time – Prayer requests will be taken and families will have
the opportunity to pray with each other. Offering will be different each week.
This first week we will just talk about what offering is. The kids will get an
opportunity to place something in the plate. This will be given to them during
the prayer time.
Story Time – Will be an interactive lesson. The story will be something that will
be meaningful for children who are 2 years old or 42 years old.
Closing Time – Kids will be given a sheet that will help them remember the
things that they learned. They will also be given a devotional for the next week.
Finally a blessing will be said and kids will be dismissed. If parents were unable
to attend with their child another activity will happen till parents arrive.
Sunday School – 9:50 – 10:50 AM
2 year olds Jean Wilson Room 101
3 — 5 year olds Kim Stinetorf and Trigg Mitchell Rooms 201/203
Kindergarten Kim Clark and Kimberly May Room 204
1st & 2nd Grade Barry and Scott Prince and Tammy Ellis Room 202
3rd Grade Jill Shambhu Room 207
4th & 5th Grade Craig Olive and Kelly& Brian Mullins Room 210
Kid’s Worship
Kid’s Worship is a Sunday morning worship service for children ages 3 through
2nd grade. Our curriculum connects with your child's Sunday school lesson,
providing a well-rounded discipleship experience.
During the worship service, children are dismissed from the sanctuary at a designated
time and are accompanied to rooms 208/209 by our Kid’s
Worship volunteers. We then begin our own interactive worship service with a
time of prayer, offering, music, and drama!
Acolyte Program
Children in 3rd - 5th grade have the privilege of serving as acolytes for our
worship services. The word acolyte means 'one who serves the ministers.' After
being trained in September, children serve by lighting and extinguishing the candles,
pouring water into the baptismal font, and distributing and collecting the
offering plates from the ushers.
Missions
At VBS 2010, we learned about Red Bird Mission and the way it serves some of
Kentucky’s poorest residents. A major concern then was whether its school could
afford to open this fall. Thanks to many who contributed, the school is open and
serving 160 students! Our children will continue to support the mission in various
ways this year, starting with prayer, Also, we will collect Box Tops for Education
and Campbell’s Soup labels for the school. If you collect these for other organizations,
please consider dividing your collection so the students at Red Bird
Mission School can benefit, too. There is a basket in the Red Bird Corner upstairs
where you can leave donations. Thank you!
Sponsor Child
The children sponsor a child named Shadman. Shadman is from Bangladesh.
We sponsor Shadman through World Vision. During Children’s Worship we pass
an offering plate around for children to donate to Shadman. We periodically will
send Shadman packages with pictures of us. He sends pictures and letters to us
also.
Safe
Sanctuariies
Reduciing the Riisk
of Abuse in Youth
and Chilldren’’s
Miiniistry
SAFE SANCTUARIESReducing the Risk of Abuse in the Church
Mandatory Standards for Local Churches in the Kentucky Annual Conference
Tragically, churches have not always been safe places for children. Child sexual abuse, exploitation,
and ritual abuse occur in churches, both large and small, urban and rural. The problem
cuts across all economic, cultural, and racial line. It is real, and it appears to be increasing.
Most annual conferences can cite specific incidents of child sexual abuse and exploitation
within churches… God call us to make our churches safe places, protecting children and other
vulnerable persons from sexual and ritual abuse. God calls us to create communities of faith
where children and adults grow safe and strong.
From The Book of Resolutions of The United Methodist Church – 2000.
Preface
God has called us to make our ministries safe, protecting our children, youth and vulnerable
adults from abuse and exploitation. God has also called us to create communities of faith
where children, youth and vulnerable adults can be safe and grow strong.
Jesus taught that “Whoever welcomes one such child in my name welcomes me,” (Mark
9:37 NRSV) and “If any of you put a stumbling block before one of these little ones…it would
be better for you if a great millstone were fastened around your neck and you were drowned in
the depth of the sea.” (Matthew 18:6 NRSV).
The Social Principles of the United Methodist Church state that “…children must be
protected from economic, physical, and sexual exploitation and abuse.”
At each child’s baptism, we affirm our responsibility to their safety by our congregational
response, pledging:
“With God’s help, we will so order our lives after the example of Christ, that this child, surrounded
by steadfast love, may be established in the faith, and confirmed and strengthened in
the way that leads to life eternal.” (From The Book of Worship, Baptismal Covenant, Congregational
Pledge II)
Building on these foundations, we recognize that our faith calls us to offer hospitality and protection
to all children, youth and vulnerable adults, as well as those who are committed to ministering
to them as volunteers and employees. Every 15 seconds, a child is abused or neglected.
Often, abuse occurs in places where children and youth feel safe – homes, schools, camps, and
even churches. In over three quarters of reported cases, the victim was related to or acquainted
with the abuser. In light of this, the Kentucky Annual Conference of the United Methodist
Church has seen fit to outline policy and procedures that can 1) prevent such abuse from happening
in our churches; 2) be a place where children can feel safe in disclosing abuse; and 3)
protect the loyal volunteers and employees that minister to our children, youth and vulnerable
adults.
DEFINITIONS:
“Abuse” means harm or a threat of physical or emotional harm to a child or vulnerable
adult or by a parent, guardian, or other person. Abuse includes: (a) the
infliction of physical or emotional injury by other than accidental means; (b) the
creation of a risk, or allowing the creation of risk, to a child by other than accidental
means; (c) committing or allowing to be committed an act of sexual abuse,
sexual exploitation, or prostitution upon the child. (See appendix A for more details
on abuse)
"Child" or “children” or “youth” means any person who has not reached his/her
eighteenth birthday.
"Exploitation" means obtaining or using another person's resources, including but
not limited to funds, assets, or property, by deception, intimidation, or similar
means, with the intent to deprive the person of those resources.
"Sexual abuse" includes, but is not necessarily limited to, any contacts or interactions
in which the parent, guardian, or other person uses or allows, permits, or encourages
the use of the child for the purposes of the sexual stimulation of the perpetrator
or another person.
"Sexual exploitation" includes, but is not limited to, a situation in which a parent,
guardian, or other person allows, permits, or encourages the child to engage in an
act which constitutes prostitution under Kentucky law; or a parent, guardian, or
other person having custodial control or supervision of a child or responsible for
his/her welfare, allows, permits, or encourages the child to engage in an act of obscene
or pornographic photographing, filming, or depicting of a child as provided
for under Kentucky law.
“Supervision” means to oversee or direct a ministry or activity.
"Vulnerable Adult" means a person eighteen (18) years of age or older who, because
of a mental or physical dysfunction, is unable to manage his/her own resources,
carry out the activity of daily living, or protect himself/herself from neglect,
exploitation, or a hazardous or abusive situation without assistance from
others.
SCREENING PROCEDURES:
Careful screening is one way to prevent the abuse and exploitation of children,
youth and vulnerable adults. It can be time consuming and expensive, but well
worth the effort in peace of mind that the most reliable, committed and experienced
staff and volunteers are in place for every program that involves children,
youth and vulnerable adults.
All staff and volunteers who have regular and direct contact with children,
youth and vulnerable adults shall be required to fill out a Background
Screening Form that shall include but is not limited to:
Fill out a covenant form
Voluntary disclosure of past criminal history, including any criminal charges and/
or convictions
Background screening:
Note: Clergy serving in the Kentucky Annual Conference will undergo a background
screening upon entrance into the conference and once during each quadrennium
when they participate in a mandatory boundaries/safe sanctuaries training
sponsored by the conference. This documentation will be kept in the personnel
files of the conference.
Background checks will be repeated every year for all staff and volunteers. If a
person has had a break from volunteer or paid service for a year or more shall undergo
a background check and shall resubmit a covenant form.
Persons shall demonstrate an active relationship with the local church for at least
six months before being allowed to be in a supervisory role in activities for children,
youth or vulnerable adults. In the case of new staff hires, references deemed
adequate by the hiring supervisor will replace the six-month waiting period.
SUPERVISION:
Supervision procedures are designed to reduce the possibility of abuse or exploitation
of children, youth or vulnerable adults, and to protect staff persons and volunteers
from unfounded accusations. (See Appendix D and E for more specific
Safe Sanctuary policies for children and youth)
Training is a requirement for all staff and volunteers working with children,
youth and vulnerable adults. An initial educational component of the Safe Sanctuaries
programs and policies is required prior to any adult having direct supervision
of children/youth/vulnerable adults. Thereafter, the minimum training would
include documentation of an annual review of the Safe Sanctuaries policies, procedures
for supervision, and current information on how to identify and report
child or vulnerable adult abuse.
Minimum supervisory standards will include the “two adult rule”. The two adult
rule requires that, regardless of the size of the group, there will always be two unrelated
adults present. This may include the presence of an adult ‘roamer’ who
moves in and out of rooms/ ministry activities (Example: Sunday School Superintendent
during Sunday School).
No child, youth or vulnerable adult will be left unsupervised while attending a
ministry activity/event.
All ministry activities should occur in open view. Each room or space where
ministry activities/events occur must be open to public view. For example: enclosed
spaces such as classrooms shall have a viewing window, a glass panel in
the door, a ½ door configuration or an open door.
Registration materials should be collected for every ministry event. (
Ministry events involving transportation shall require written/ signed permission
from parents/ guardians.
No person shall supervise an age group unless he/she is AT LEAST 18 years of
age or older and is AT LEAST 4 years older than the children/youth being supervised.
REPORTING:
Reporting is required by any staff or a volunteer that personally witnesses an incident of
abuse or exploitation, when an allegation of an event of abuse or exploitation is made to
staff or a volunteer by a third party and/or when a child or vulnerable adult discloses
abuse or exploitation to staff or a volunteer. It is crucial that reporting be immediate and
the allegations dealt with as soon in time as possible to the incident or disclosure.
The staff person or volunteer who observes alleged abuse or to whom such alleged
abuse is reported or disclosed, or who suspects’ abuse is required to report the incident/
suspected abuse immediately to the person in charge of the ministry/activity. Upon receiving
such information, the person in charge of the ministry/activity shall immediately
call the Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services (CHFS) at (800) 752-
6200, the local CHFS office or the Kentucky State Police. The Pastor in charge and immediate
staff supervisor are to be informed immediately before or subsequent to the
making of a report.
The person in charge of the ministry/activity in which the alleged abuse was observed or
disclosed shall immediately attempt to obtain necessary information such as the name of
the alleged victim and his/her address and family information.
If the accused is the appointed clergy, supply pastor or a member of his/her family, the
allegations shall be immediately reported to the District Superintendent. The District
Superintendent shall immediately report to the proper authorities as set forth in paragraph
1 above. The District Superintendent will take responsibility and act according to
established rules of The Book of Discipline with respect to claims against a pastor. If the
District Superintendent is not available, the incident should be reported to the Bishop’s
office in Crestwood.
All clergy are included in mandatory reporting as required by The Book of Discipline
and Kentucky state law. ¶341.5 All clergy of The United Methodist Church are charged
to maintain all confidences inviolate, including confessional confidences, except in the
cases of suspected child abuse or neglect or in cases where mandatory reporting is required
by civil law.
After the person in charge of the ministry/activity has reported the suspected abuse to
the proper authorities, the appointed clergy/supply pastors are to report the incident immediately
to the District Superintendent. If the District Superintendent is unavailable,
the incident should be reported to the Bishop’s office.
The person in charge of the ministry/event must keep a written report of the steps taken
by the Church in response to the reported abuse. The report should be brief and contain
only factual information relevant to the situation. It should be kept in a secure place. It
should be written in ink or typed to prevent it from being changed.
RESPONSE PLAN:
A quick, compassionate and unified response to an alleged incident of abuse is expected.
All allegations will be taken seriously. In all cases of reported or observed
abuse there shall be cooperation with all official investigating agencies. (See Appendix
H for The Church’s Response to a Convicted Sex Offender)
All media requests for statements should be directed to the Pastor in charge who
shall be in contact with his/her District Superintendent. A spirit of cooperation in
helping the media find the “official spokesperson” is often helpful.
Immediately, yet with dignity and respect for the sacred worth of the accused, remove
the accused from further involvement with children or vulnerable adults and
advise the accused there has been an allegation of abuse. Details of the allegations
of the abuse should not be discussed with the accused at the time of removal.
In any removal of a staff member or volunteer from any activity/ministry, care
should be taken to handle the removal in a discreet manner, recognizing that there
will be an investigation by either state or church authorities, or both.
When it has been alleged that a member of the church staff or a volunteer, has
committed an act of abuse or exploitation, the staff member or volunteer shall be
required to refrain from all ministry activities/events with children, youth and vulnerable
adults until the incident has been fully resolved by the appropriate state
authorities and/or in accordance with Book of Discipline.
Notify the parents of the victim and take whatever steps are necessary to assure
the safety and well being of the child or youth until the parent(s) arrive. NOTE: If
one or both of the parents is the alleged abuser, follow the advice of the authorities
concerning notification of others.
Take all allegations seriously and reach out to the victim and the victim’s family.
Show care and support to help prevent further hurt. Extend whatever pastoral resources
are needed. Remember that the care and safety of the victim is the first
priority. Respond in a positive and supportive manner to the victim and the victim’s
family. Response team from conference shall be called in if needed.
The church should provide a supportive atmosphere to all those who are affected,
offering both objectivity and empathy as it seeks to create a climate in which healing
can take place.
How to recognize Child/ Youth Abuse
Abuse is defined as misuse, mistreat, attack with words, corrupt practice, and
coarse or insulting speech. Abuse changes a child or youths life forever. It is
something that can not always be prevented but can almost always be stopped if
someone will step up and take action.
Signs of Abuse:
Although there are many forms of abuse the following are some initial signs that
should put red flags up that something is wrong. They are the following but not
limited to:
• poor self esteem
• passive
• lack of initiative
• reoccurring temper tantrums
• aggressive towards themselves and/or others
• difficulty forming close friendships
• lying
• stealing
• skipping school
• trouble with police
• delayed learning
• slower than normal growth
• difficulty concentrating
• poor performance in school
• depression
• anxiety
Types of Abuse:
• Physical Abuse
• Emotional Abuse
• Neglect
• Sexual Abuse
• Ritual Abuse
Physical Abuse:
Abuse in which a person consciously and intentionally causes physical (bodily) harm to a child.
Some examples may include but are not limited to:
Violent battery with a weapon (knife, belt, strap, and so forth) Burning; Shaking, grabbing,
pushing, shoving, shaking, hitting, slapping, biting, pinching, hair pulling, arm
twisting, spitting, chocking; Withholding food, clothing, sleep or medical care
(medicine); Fracturing bones; Any non-accidental injury to a child/youths body
Possible Signs of Physical Abuse:
Hostile and aggressive behavior toward others; Fearfulness of parents and/or other
adults; Destructive behavior toward self, others, and/ or property; Inexplicable fractures
or bruises inappropriate for child’s developmental stage; Burns, facial injuries, pattern
of repetitious bruises
Sexual Abuse:
This form of abuse is when sexual contact is made between a child and an adult. Some
forms of sexual abuse include but are not limited to:
Fondling; Intercourse demanded or forced; Incest; Exploitation of and exposure to pornography
or prostitution; Sexual jokes or remarks; Unwanted touching; Stripping a child
for spanking; Exposing ones self to child or youth; Sexually natured talk, comments, or
jokes; Touching ones self in from of a child or youth; “Peeping” in on a child or youth
who is getting dressed, showering, or using the restroom
Possible Signs of Sexual Abuse:
Unusual advanced sexual knowledge and/ or behavior for age and development stage;
Depression – cries often for no apparent reason; Promiscuous behavior; Runs away from
home and refuses to return; Difficulty walking or sitting; Bruised/ bleeding in vaginal or
anal areas; Exhibits frequent headaches, stomachaches, extreme fatigue; Sexually transmitted
diseases
In addition children who have been sexually abused at church may exhibit:
Unusual nervousness or anxiety about being left in the nursery or Sunday school class;
Reluctance to participate in church activities that were previously enthusiastically approached;
Comments such as “I don’t want to be alone with___” in reference to a
worker or teacher.; Nightmares including a worker or teacher as a frightening character.;
Unexplained hostility toward a worker or teacher
Emotional Abuse:
Abuse in which a person exposes a child to spoken and / or unspoken violence or emotional
cruelty. Emotional abuse tells a child that they are worthless, bad, unloved and undeserving of
love and care. Emotional abuse is very difficult to prove and is devastating to the child or
youth.
Some examples include but are not limited to:
Being locked in a closet; Being deprived of any sign of parental affection; Constantly being
told they are bad or stupid (constant criticism); Insults, put downs, name calling;
Threats, yelling, sarcasm; Sending mix signals; Cruel or/and nasty messages; Being
forced or allowed to consume alcohol or drugs; Controlling; Threat of abandonment
Possible Signs of Emotional Abuse:
Exhibits severe depression and/or withdrawn; Exhibits severe lack of self-esteem; Failure
to thrive; Threatens or attempts suicide; Speech and/ or eating disorders; Goes to
extremes to seek adult approval; Extreme passive/aggressive behavior patterns
Neglect:
Neglect is a form of abuse in which the child’s heath, safety, or welfare is being endangered.
This can include but is not limited to: Withholding clothing, medical care, food,
education, affection and affirmation. This is the most common form of abuse world wide.
Possible Signs of Neglect:
Failure to thrive; Pattern of inappropriate dress for climate; Begs or steals food; chronic
hunger; Home environment neglect (unsanitary); Depression; Untreated medical conditions;
Poor hygiene; Threat of abandonment
Ritual Abuse
Ritual abuse is abuse in which physical, sexual and/ or psychological violations of a child or
youth are inflicted. This is on a regular basis, is intentionally done, and done in a stylized
way. This form of abuse may include but is not limited to: Harm to animals; Threats to
harm child, youth or other persons
Possible Signs of Ritual Abuse:
Disruption of memory or consciousness; Unexplained mistrust and mood swing;
Flashbacks; Eating disorders; Fear of the dark, especially at sundown or a full moon;
Agitation or despair that seems to occur in cycles; Fear of ministers, priests, or other
wearing robes or uniforms; Nightmares or sleep disorders; Any of the symptoms of sexual
abuse
Common Traits of Abusers
An abuser does not have a certain look. You can’t pick them out of a crowd of people. They
look just like any other person. There are some characteristics that are common in people who
are abusers.
Some are but not limited to:
1. low self esteem
2. uncontrolled temper
3. possessive and controlling
4. intense fear of abandonment
5. extreme jealousy
6. inability to accept responsibility for own behavior
7. quick involvement
8. cruelty to animals or others
9. wide mood swings
10. substance abuse
11. violent history
12. large number of partners
13. history of abuse in home
Two – adult rule:
There is to be 2 or more adults for every 1 – 5 children at all times. If there are not two adults in
the room there shall be a roamer who moves in and out of the rooms.
Four – years – older rule:
All adult leaders shall be four years older than the people with whom they are working with.
They shall never be younger than eighteen years old.
Adult leaders:
1. All adult leaders shall follow the safe sanctuary policy at all times.
2. All adult leaders – whether paid or volunteer – will be required to attend an orientation
session before working with youth.
3. All adult leaders shall have a background check and a volunteer application on file.
Youth Volunteers:
Will be required to go through training and to sign a covenant form. All youth volunteers will
be with an adult at all times. All youth volunteers will obey the four year rule. For example: a
16 year old can work with 12 year olds and younger.
Sleeping arrangements:
Adults will not sleep in the same bed as youth. In a hotel-type setting, if possible, an adult
room is to be between two youth rooms. This is also recommended for dormitory and tent settings.
If not possible, in a dormitory and tent setting there shall be at least one adult in each
room and there shall be more than three in each room. No female shall be allowed in the male
sleeping rooms of the males and no males shall be allowed in the females sleeping rooms. With
the exception of married couples in which they shall have their own rooms and follow all the
same rules as stated above.
Adults should check in on youth rooms on a random schedule during the entire night.
Minimizing the possibility of danger from within the group as well as from strangers, if possible
choose a hotel where the rooms open to the interior of the building rather than to the outside.
Pick rooms that are also on the inner part of the hotel away from exits and staircases.
Physical safety issues:
Leaders should be conscious of safety concerns when leading activities and games. Proper
equipment and adequate supervision of the activity should always be in place at all times.
No drugs, alcoholic beverages, weapons or firearms are to be allowed at any youth/children
event.
An adult leader who is first aid/CPR trained will be present at all events.
All children must have a signed parental consent with a medical release form turned in before
they can attend the event.
Incident or accident report will be made for any incidents or accidents that happen. Parents will
be given a copy and another copy will be put on file for church record.
Interpersonal boundaries in relationships:
1. All adult leaders shall be present with the group for all activities.
2. All adult leaders will present good leadership by modeling appropriate behavior for
the youth and other leaders at all times.
3. Profane language will be refrained from being used.
4. Practical jokes will not be played on the youth or other adult leaders.
5. Permission will not be given for any reason for the opposite sex to enter into each
others sleeping areas, including adult leaders.
6. No opportunities or permission given for two youth or one adult and one youth to be
alone.
7. Proper touch will be used; personal space and privacy will be respected. No inappropriate
touching that may create the perception that personal space and privacy of
the individual has been violated. No adult shall be in the same room as a child who
is changing, showering, or using the restroom. Unless the child is in need of help
and if there is another adult present in the room.
Transportation plans:
No divers under the age of 25 can transport youth to any event. All drivers must be covered by
adequate insurance. All drivers shall be safe drivers with proper credentials All passengers shall
wear their seat belts while vehicle is in motion. If possible there shall be two adults in the vehicle
at all times. There shall be a cell phone or some other way to communicate in an emergency
in the vehicle at all times. No child under seven shall ride the van, unless a parent is present.
Cell Phone, Computer, and camera/video recording equipment:
No children or youth shall have camera phones at any children’s ministry
function.
If brought will be put in a safe place until parents pick youth up from event.
Children will not be allowed to use the computers at any time unless with parent
or guardian present.
All computers will be password protected and password changed every six weeks.
No youth will be given access to a camera or video recording equipment without
adult supervision.
Counseling:
All counseling that is done with youth shall be done with the door open for the
entire session or with another adult leader in the room. In the case of a counseling
session outside of the church the counseling session shall take place when the
parents are present or in a public place in open view. The children’s pastor or
another staff member as well as the parents shall be notified of the meeting time
and place prior to and following the meeting and proper documentation shall be
made.
Discipline:
Children should be made aware of the expectation of appropriate behavior and
gentle reminders should be made when needed. When reminders fail to work then
the behavior should be addressed in an appropriate way. Discipline should be
done by the designated leader, pastor, or counselor. No physical disciple should
ever be used. In all cases of discipline parents should be involved and a record of
what was said and done should be made and kept in a secured file.
620.030 Duty to report dependency, neglect, or abuse -- Husband-wife and professional-client/patient privileges
not grounds for refusal to report -- Exceptions -- Penalties.
(1) Any person who knows or has reasonable cause to believe that a child is dependent, neglected, or abused shall
immediately cause an oral or written report to be made to a local law enforcement agency or the Department of
Kentucky State Police; the cabinet or its designated representative; the Commonwealth's attorney or the county
attorney; by telephone or otherwise. Any supervisor who receives from an employee a report of suspected dependency,
neglect, or abuse shall promptly make a report to the proper authorities for investigation. If the cabinet receives
a report of abuse or neglect allegedly committed by a person other than a parent, guardian, or person exercising
custodial control or supervision, the cabinet shall refer the matter to the Commonwealth's attorney or the
county attorney and the local law enforcement agency or the Department of Kentucky State Police. Nothing in this
section shall relieve individuals of their obligations to report.
(2) Any person, including but not limited to a physician, osteopathic physician, nurse, teacher, school personnel,
social worker, coroner, medical examiner, child-caring personnel, resident, intern, chiropractor, dentist, optometrist,
emergency medical technician, paramedic, health professional, mental health professional, peace officer, or
any organization or agency for any of the above, who knows or has reasonable cause to believe that a child is dependent,
neglected, or abused, regardless of whether the person believed to have caused the dependency, neglect,
or abuse is a parent, guardian, person exercising custodial control or supervision, or another person, or who has
attended such child as a part of his or her professional duties shall, if requested, in addition to the report required in
subsection (1) of this section, file with the local law enforcement agency or the Department of Kentucky State Police
or the Commonwealth's or county attorney, the cabinet or its designated representative within forty-eight (48)
hours of the original report a written report containing:
(a) The names and addresses of the child and his or her parents or other persons exercising custodial control or
supervision;
(b) The child's age;
(c) The nature and extent of the child's alleged dependency, neglect, or abuse, including any previous charges of
dependency, neglect, or abuse, to this child or his or her siblings;
(d) The name and address of the person allegedly responsible for the abuse or neglect; and
(e) Any other information that the person making the report believes may be helpful in the furtherance of the purpose
of this section.
(3) Neither the husband-wife nor any professional-client/patient privilege, except the attorney-client and clergypenitent
privilege, shall be a ground for refusing to report under this section or for excluding evidence regarding a
dependent, neglected, or abused child or the cause thereof, in any judicial proceedings resulting from a report pursuant
to this section. This subsection shall also apply in any criminal proceeding in District or Circuit Court regarding
a dependent, neglected, or abused child.
(4) The cabinet upon request shall receive from any agency of the state or any other agency, institution, or facility
providing services to the child or his or her family, such cooperation, assistance, and information as will enable the
cabinet to fulfill its responsibilities under KRS 620.030, 620.040, and 620.050.
(5) Any person who intentionally violates the provisions of this section shall be guilty of a:
(a) Class B misdemeanor for the first offense;
(b) Class A misdemeanor for the second offense; and
(c) Class D felony for each subsequent offense.
Effective: July 15, 2008
History: Amended 2008 Ky. Acts ch. 72, sec. 4, effective July 15, 2008. -- Amended 2007 Ky. Acts ch. 85, sec.
330, effective June 26, 2007. -- Amended 1988 Ky. Acts ch. 258, sec. 2, effective July 15, 1988; and ch. 350, sec.
43, effective April 10, 1988. -- Created 1986 Ky. Acts ch. 423, sec. 64, effective July 1, 1987.
Legislative Research Commission Note. The 1988 amendments to this section are effective April 10, 1988, except
for the second sentence of subsection (1), which is effective July 15, 1988.
Reporting Form
Name of person who’s observing or receiving disclosure of abuse of child or youth:
________________________________________________________________________
Victim’s Name: __________________________________________________________
Age/date of birth: _________________________________________________________
Date/Place of initial conversation with/report from victim: ________________________
Victim’s statement (give a detailed summary here): ______________________________
________________________________________________________________________
Name of person accused of abuse: ____________________________________________
Relationship of accused to victim: ____________________________________________
Reported to pastor: ________________________________________________________
Date/time: _______________________________________________________________
Summary: _______________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
Call to victim’s parents/guardians:____________________________________________
Date/time: _______________________________________________________________
Spoke with: _____________________________________________________________
Summary: _______________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
Call to local children and family service agency: ________________________________
Date/time: _______________________________________________________________
Spoke with: _____________________________________________________________
Summary: _______________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
Call to local law enforcement agency: _________________________________________
Date/time: _______________________________________________________________
Spoke with: _____________________________________________________________
Summary: _______________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
Other contacts:
Date/time: _______________________________________________________________
Name: __________________________________________________________________
Summary: _______________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________ _______________________
Signature of Person Making the Report Date
Accident (or Incident) Report Form
(Please print all information)
Date of accident: _____________________________ Time of accident: ___________________
Name of child/youth injured: ______________________________________________________
Address of child/youth: __________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
Parent or guardian: ______________________________________________________________
Location of accident: ____________________________________________________________
Name of person’s who witnessed the accident: ________________________________________
Name: ______________________________ Phone: _____________________________
Name: ______________________________ Phone: _____________________________
Name: ______________________________ Phone: _____________________________
Name: ______________________________ Phone: _____________________________
Describe accident:
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
I CORINTHIANS 13
PARAPHRASED—SELECTED VERSES
SAFE SANCTUARY VERSION
If I speak in the tongues of mortals and angels, if I talk about the importance of Safe Sanctuaries but do not put
action with my words, I am a only a noisy gong or a clanging cymbal.
If I have prophetic powers to say “it will never, ever happen in our church”, but have not the love of children to
insist on background checks, I am nothing.
If I give away all the church’s possessions in litigation because we did not insist on Safe Sanctuaries, the Kingdom
of God gains absolutely nothing.
Love is patient—even in the midst of long discussions about the benefits of background checks;
Love is not envious or boastful or arrogant or rude—even toward the “yes buts” who say it will never happen
here.
Love it not irritable or resentful--even when dealing with Trustees who have to be convinced to put windows in
all the doors,
Love does not rejoice in wrongdoing—even when a background check comes back with a conviction on it.
Love rejoices in the truth of speaking in favor of Safe Sanctuaries both privately and publicly.
Love bears all things—endless meetings, believes all things, hopes all things—that one day all children, youth
and vulnerable adults will be absolutely safe,
Love endures all things--even day long training for Safe Sanctuaries.
Love never ends.
Now we know only in part; but there will come a time when I will know fully, even as I have been fully known.
And now faith, hope and love abide, these three; but the greatest of these is love—the love for God and the love
for our children, youth and vulnerable adults.
From the Kentucky Conference Chancellor, Jody Curry:
What sort of crimes would preclude a person from working with children, youth
and/or vulnerable adults?
Any criminal record of sex offenses (in Kentucky these are charges that fall under
KRS Chapter 510) should preclude a person from working with children, youth and/or
vulnerable adults. Sex offenses in Kentucky include sodomy, rape, sexual abuse,
etc. There is also a classification of crimes in Kentucky called “family offenses” (KRS
Chapter 530) which include incest, unlawful transaction with a minor, etc.- a charge
of this type offense should also a person from working with children, youth and/or vulnerable
adults. Prostitution (KRS Chapter 329) and pornography charges (KRS
Chapter 331) should preclude a person from working with children, youth and/or vulnerable
adults.
Assault and related offenses (in Kentucky these charges fall under KRS Chapter 508)
may not necessarily preclude someone from working with children, youth and/or vulnerable
adults, but do require further inquiry to determine the circumstances of the
charges. This may be accomplished by contacting the victim, the arresting officer,
etc. Charges related to illegal drugs and alcohol-related charges (e.g., DUI) should
be treated in the same manner, with the additional inquiry as to whether the person
has received substance abuse assessment and treatment.
Criminal background checks may disclose traffic offenses, perhaps some of the theft
type crimes in people's past (bad checks, shoplifting, etc.) and other charges that in
most cases do not warrant further inquiry. Each individual situation will dictate
whether there is a need for further inquiry.
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Emergency Response
Every Space Has:
A Safety Map posted beside the door including: fire escape routes, First Aid Kit
location, telephone and fire extinguisher location
In Case of Fire/Tornado or other Emergency:
1. All staff and volunteers will remain calm.
2. Volunteers will count the children in their area, line them up and walk
calmly but quickly to the nearest designated safe space.
3. Count the children in your group again after reaching the designated safe
space.
4. Infants and toddlers are placed in the wagon and/or evacuation-crib and
wheeled to the nearest designated safe space.
5. The children’s pastor will check the bathrooms and be the last one to
leave the area after being sure everyone has been safely
moved to the designated safe spaces.
6. Children’s pastor will run attendance counts for that hour’s
program and take them with her to the designated safe spaces where she
will account for every child and volunteer.
7. Staff and Volunteers will do whatever they can to keep the children calm.
8. No one may leave area until children’s pastor has given the “all clear.”
9. Parents may not remove their children until children’s pastor is satisfied
all children are accounted for.
In Case of Tornado Watch (possibility of tornado)
1. Program will continue as normal.
2. Children’s pastor will monitor weather conditions.
3. Parents may check their children out at their discretion.
In Case of an Intruder with Intent to Harm:
1. Children’s pastor will make sure the doors to the area are locked (Note:
that can be opened from the inside).
2. Children will remain in classrooms and sit in an area not visible from thedoor.
3. Everyone will stay until the “All Clear” notice comes.
Unauthorized Intruder
When an unauthorized adult or teen is found in or near the nursery or
children’s wing, the following steps will apply:
1. Approach the individual and ask the following questions: “Can
I help you” “Are you looking for someone?” “Do you have a
question about our program I can help you with?”
2. If you cannot answer their questions take him/her to the
children’s pastor to help.
3. The children’s pastor will assist the person or ask him/her to
leave. (Do not leave the individual alone!)
4. If the individual runs away or resists in any way contact the
children’s pastor and or senior pastor immediately
Touch Policy
Physical touch is an important part of human interaction, especially with children.
In many cases, a hug or “high five” from an adult or teen leader may be the only
positive attention a child receives. Jesus often touched people physically as well
as spiritually and emotionally.
However, the following are INAPPROPRIATE ways to touch children who are
under your care and will not be tolerated. This includes any touch that can be perceived
as gratifying to the adult:
- Kissing
- Demanding hugs from a child
- Seductive or suggestive contact
- Touching the cheeks, upper legs, waist, stomach, buttocks or genital areas,
- Sitting children on your leg or lap.
Touches that are done to control or punish a child:
- Spanking
- Slapping
- Shoving
- Forcing a child to sit or move
- Restraining a child, unless they are endangering themselves or others
In the Children’s Ministry, we encourage APPROPRIATE touch with children,
and to refrain from any touches that are, or may be perceived to be, offensive or
inappropriate. If you observe inappropriate behavior on the part of a co-volunteer
or staff member or any other adult or teenager, it is important to communicate
your concerns to the individual and notify the Children’s Pastor immediately.
Biting Policy
1. Interrupting behavior can stop an incident from happening. watch for clues that
lead to a biting incident and intervene before the child has a chance to bite.
2. Comfort and treat the injured child. Wash the bite mark with soap and warm
water for several minutes. Look for broken skin. If the skin is broken, send for
the child’s parents and let them decide if they wish to consult their family doctor.
If there’s a red mark and the child will tolerate it, hold a warm compress to
the mark while comforting the child. Don’t overreact. As soon as the child is
comforted, give him/her a hug and encourage them to rejoin the class activity.
3. Talk to the biter. While one caregiver comforts the “bitten” child, another caregiver
will take the biting child aside, get down to his/her eye-level and quietly
explain in short sentences that biting is not “OK”. Set the biter in a child-sized
“time out” chair or other acceptable isolated spot for time out. (One minute for
each year of the child’s age.)
4. Speak to the Parents. For the parents of the injured child give details of what
was done to treat and comfort the child. Do not name the biter. For the parents
of the biter give the circumstances of the incident and what was done as discipline
and to calm their child. If asked, name the child who was bitten because it
allows them to approach the injured child’s parent.
5. Complete an Accident/Injury Report (found in the hallway or in the children’s
ministry box in the old parsonage)
6. If at first you don’t succeed… If the same child bites again, repeat the procedure
with two
Bodily-Fluid Cleanup
The following steps should be used after the child has been cared for and
parents contacted.
1. Vomit:
a. Move other children away from the area and designate one volunteer to
clean up, while another volunteer continues to work with the children.
b. Use disposable gloves and Clorox to clean up the area
c. Cover the cleaned area (Place a chair or table over it) and let dry.
d. Fill out an incident/accident report and turn in to children’s pastor
2. Urine, Feces:
a. Remove the child to a bathroom and call the parent.
b. Follow steps b and d above
3. Blood:
a. Remove the child from the room.
b. Apply first aid and comfort the child.
d. Clean up the blood following steps b and d above.
Bathroom Policy
1. Children are taken only upon their request or if the child shows obvious
sign of needing to use the bathroom.
2. A volunteer will accompany the child to the nearest bathroom.
3. The volunteer will remain outside, but within hearing range of the
bathroom. If the child needs assistance with their clothes, have the
child come out of the bathroom
4. Only help children under the age of 3 with wiping. Another volunteer
must be present. Spend as little time in the bathroom with the
child as possible.
5. Be sure the child washes their hands. Even after a diaper change.
6. The volunteer staff will rotate this responsibility so the same person
is not taking the children all the time.
7. Immediately report any unusual situation to the children’s pastor.
Changing a Diaper
1. Gather Supplies: Before the baby is placed on the changing table, spread a
clean paper liner, get a clean diaper from the child’s bag, and put on disposable
gloves.
2. Place Child on Diaper Pad: Place the baby onto the diaper pad.
3. Never leave Baby Alone! Always keep one hand on the baby to prevent an
active child from rolling off the pad.
4. Clean the Child: Unfasten the diaper, leaving the diaper under the child. Use
wipes to clean the child’s diaper area, wiping from front to back and using a
clean wipe each time. Place the soiled wipes on the dirty diaper.
5. Remove the Soiled Diaper: Fold diaper and hold it shut with tabs. Place soiled
diaper in. Use wipes to clean any spills under the baby. Remove and dispose of
gloves with diaper and dispose in diaper pail near changing area.
6. Put a Clean Diaper on Baby: Slip a clean diaper under the baby and fasten it.
Do not apply ointment or powder unless provided in the child’s bag.
7. Clean the Diapering Area: Clean the changing area and spray it and any
other surface that has become soiled with disinfectant provided.
8. Clean Your Hands: Use running, warm water and soap. Wash fronts, backs, between
fingers, and under fingernails. Dry with a paper towel and drop soiled
towel in waste can.
Crying Children
Babies and little kids cry. It is a natural indication of hunger,
sleepiness, pain, boredom, illness or fear. But crying is also contagious.
One child can quickly turn into two or more crying in
sympathy for their little buddy.
Reasons small children cry:
• Being in new space for the first time
• Fear
• Not feeling well
• Hunger
• A long day
• Attachment to parent
Try the following:
Rock the child.
Remove child to quiet place.
Offer a book or toy.
Offer a snack from their bag.
Singing or hum a song.
NEVER remove a child from the nursery.
If a child will not settle or be consoled after 5-7 minutes, call the
parent, explain the situation.
Separation/Anxious Child Policy
Sometimes a child will experience separation anxiety. If a child has a pattern of
crying and cannot adjust to one hour of separation from his/her parent, we request
parents’ participation in the following which may be altered depending on the
need of the child:
Week 1 Parent will remain in the room with the child for 50 minutes and then
leave the room for 10 minutes and then return for pick-up and take the
child with them.
Week 2 Parent will remain in the room for 40 minutes, depart for 20 minutes,
return for pick-up and take the child with them.
Week 3 Parent will remain for 20 minutes, depart for 40 minutes, return for
pick-up and take the child with them.
Week 4 Parent involvement will continue depending on adjustments of the child.
Wellness Policy
In order to preserve the good health of all the children who attend First
Church programs and events the following plan will be followed:
1. Volunteers who work directly with children and notice general health
concerns may ask the parents questions to determine if the following is
present:
a. A fever, vomiting, diarrhea, or green/yellow runny nose.
b. A fresh cold with sneezing
c. A questionable rash or open sore that oozes
d. Frequent nose wiping
e. Thick congestive drainage (an occasional clear drip is acceptable.)
Any of the following diseases:
i. Impetigo
ii. Active Chicken Pox
iii. Measles
iv. Mumps
v. Conjunctivitis (Pink eye)
2. If a child becomes ill during class time, parents will be notified and
asked to take the child with them.
3. Parents are asked to let us know if a child:
Has a continually clear-runny nose or rash due to non-contagious
allergies
4. Parents are asked to keep children at home if any of these symptoms
were/are present within the previous 24 hours.
a. Temperature of 100 degrees Fahrenheit or more
b. Vomiting
c. Yellow or green runny nose
d. Questionable rashes
e. Open sore that oozes
f. Unproductive deep coughing
g. Diarrhea
h. Impetigo
i. Active Chicken Pox
j. Measles
k. Mumps
l. Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye)
5. A child is welcome back to a classroom when (s)he:
1. Has been treated with antibiotics for the previous 24 hours
2. Has not exhibited symptoms for the previous 24 hours
Snack Policy
Due to the fact that we have many allergies present among our children
we ask that volunteers refrain from giving snacks to children. If there is
a snack option given in the curriculum please consult the children’s pastors
and parents of the children before implementing.
Some of the common allergies we have at First Church are:
Milk (lactose)
Nuts (all kinds and also products produced in places that have
nuts)
Wheat (which is also found in play-dough)
Substitute Volunteers
Stuff happens and sometimes volunteers are not able to be present during
their designated time.
When this happens the following applies:
1. Each volunteer will arrange for a substitute using the approved substitute
list provided as soon as possible. If no one from the list is
available, contact other volunteers who serve in the same area of
ministry and trade times/days.
2. Notify Director of the change.
3. Provide substitute with whatever information they need to fill your
role well.
Purchasing / Reimbursement Procedure
No supplies of any kind including but not limited to snacks, craft supplies,
curriculum, etc are to be bought without prior consent from the
children’s pastor.
