Where do I park?
The main preschool area is on the north end of Building A, which faces Western Street. If you have preschool children, the most convenient place to park is on the north side of the building in the Green Parking Lot or across Kristee Street in the Brown Parking Lot.
What can I expect when I bring my child for the first time?
When you arrive on Sunday morning, a church member will be nearby to greet you and to record some basic information. You will be given a temporary security sheet and a name sticker for your child. A preschool greeter will help you find the right room for your preschooler based on the child’s age. You will be asked to sign your child into the room by giving your name and emergency phone number. You also will be asked if there are any special instructions or allergy alerts of which the teachers need to be aware. Electronic pagers are available if you would like one.
The trained teacher will focus on making your child feel welcome. Activities set up in the room will be age-appropriate learning opportunities based on the Bible lesson for the day. Older preschoolers participate in a large-group Bible time with music that enhances the learning experience. After your child is settled, a greeter will direct you to a Sunday School group or the main worship center.
What if my child cries when I leave?
First, don't worry too much about it, as almost all children (and parents) go through this stage. Second, we suggest that you tell your child good-bye, reassure him/her that Mommy and Daddy will be back later, and then leave. Prolonged goodbyes usually make it more difficult for your child to adjust.
You are welcome to go back to your child’s room to check on him/her, but please make sure that you look in the window and avoid letting him/her see you. Your child's teacher will contact you if he/she is unable to comfort your preschooler after a reasonable amount of time. If you are staying in the church building, we can issue you a pager.
Don’t be alarmed if you have tried these suggestions and your child still cries at the door. Separation anxiety can be a brief period or it may last for months. Regular attendance will help. Your child’s teachers will be praying with you that your child will have a happy time at church and that he/ she will come to realize that church is indeed a loving, happy place.
How safe is my child?
As safe as possible. Providing your child a safe and secure environment is a priority with us.
Security system: We use a computer check-in system that includes a numbered receipt for the adult and a matching sticker for the child. In addition, sheets are posted outside each classroom door for adults to identify themselves, an emergency phone number, and the times they pick up and drop off children. This sheet provides teachers with a complete checklist of children in their care at any given time.
Teachers: All teachers are required to be active members and to undergo a background check. Whenever possible, we place at least two teachers in every room. A person-in-charge is available at our front desk to help teachers as needed and to monitor classrooms.
Children-only policy: As much as possible, only children and on-duty teachers are allowed in the classrooms. Other adults are welcome to observe through the windows. This policy helps with both security and hygiene by cutting down on traffic in and out of the room.
Accidents and injuries: Unfortunately, accidents and kids go together. In the event your child receives a bump or bruise, teachers will fill out a report and show it to you to sign as you pick up your child. Of course, if your child is more seriously hurt, you will be notified immediately.
What is your illness policy?
We ask adults to bring only children who are well and have been free of signs of illness for 24 hours (without medicine to reduce symptoms).
Why is my kindergartener in the preschool ministry?
The kindergarten year is a transition time from preschool to elementary. While kindergarteners are included under the preschool ministry umbrella, we recognize that they have their own unique needs and interests. We include more group activities for them, as well as more activities that encourage reading and writing. We also help them develop stronger Bible skills such as recognizing the Old and New Testaments. In addition, the 4- and 5-year-old worship time on Sunday morning is designed to preapre them for group worship experiences in the children’s ministry. By the end of the year, most kindergarteners are able to confidently move into the children’s area.
What if I’m expecting a baby?
One of the ways we support families is to reach out to expectant parents. A sheet is available at the main preschool Sunday School desk, in adult Sunday School boxes and in the church office that lets you tell us when your baby is due, what hospital you will be at and whether or not you have family to help at the time of birth. After your child arrives, he/she will be welcomed with a birth announcement during the Sunday morning services. In addition, Paramount’s Prayer Quilt ministry provides each new baby with a handmade quilt. Later, when you are ready, you will have the opportunity to dedicate yourself and your child in one of the morning services. Pastor Gil Lain will pray with you, bless your child, and present you to the congregation. You will also receive a Bible that is appropriate to read to your preschooler. You are welcome to bring your infant to Sunday School or one of the services whenever you comfortable. One of our Sunday School rooms is solely for infants, and a nursing area is provided.