In order to help facilitate our desire to see children and youth integrated into the life of Fusion community we have intentionally created space for children to participate in our main gathering. We do, however recognize that space restraints and meeting length aren’t always conducive to young children who understandably need to move and play. All children begin the morning with us connecting with family and friends, enjoying brunch and taking part in our opening prayer. During our teaching/discussion time toddlers through 5th graders are invited to an age appropriate activity on the first floor. Everyone comes back together for a time of singing and prayer around 12:15.

Infants: 0-11 months
We do not separate infants from their parent(s)/caregivers; instead we offer “Babyholders” who care for infants in the main gathering space for those who would like assistance.

Toddlers: 1 & 2 years and confidently walking
Toddlers have the opportunity to take first steps in separating from their parent(s)/caregivers and learn to trust and form relationships with caring members of our community. A toddler playroom offers a variety of age-appropriate toys including dramatic play, blocks, sensory table, manipulatives, books, art materials, etc., and space to exercise, and practice large motor skills. Children are escorted  to the gathering space when they’re done playing at 12:15.

Preschoolers: 3-5 years, Pre-k
Preschoolers learn about one Fruit of the Spirit a month using a weekly rotation. The first Sunday of the month is story, the second is music, the third is art and the fourth is movement.

At 11:55, preschoolers move to the playroom where they play, practice social skills and build friendships. At 12:15, they return to the gathering.

Elementary: Kindergarten- 5th Grade
Our elementary children are working their way through the Bible. Each month they learn one story using a weekly rotation. By learning these stories, we hope to create a basic narrative of our faith.

We begin the month with “Learning and Belief.” During this time, the children are introduced to the story in a variety of ways- reading, storytelling, dramatic play, etc.

The second Sunday of the month is called “Physicality.” This week the children take the story that they heard and now interact with it physically- through games, dance or movement, music, etc.

The third week is called “Worship Gathering Participation”. The children have now heard and experienced the story so they find a way to share it with our community. They may contribute something to the gathering, create something for the church or demonstrate what they have learned in myriad other ways.

The fourth Sunday of the month is called “Service and Hospitality.” Now that the children have learned the story using their minds, experienced it using their bodies and shared it with our church community, it is time for them to put the story into action for the good of the greater community. We believe that performing regular acts of service are an important component to every person’s spiritual development.

Jr/Sr High: Grades 6-12
We have a one-on-one mentoring program for students in middle and senior high. Mentors are selected in collaboration with parents and the students. We recognize the importance of faithful and trustworthy adults in the lives of our students- especially at this age- and seek to foster such relationships within our community.

As powerful as a youth group can be, we don’t see a reason for duplicating a worship gathering centered around one particular age group. From early on we help our children connect with God and participate in community worship together across age and style barriers, and to add their thoughts and ideas into our main gathering. That being said, there is plenty of room for youth and mentors to coordinate youth oriented events, activities, and learning opportunities.