Children's Religious Exploration (CRE)

This program runs from September through August each year. In June and July, activities are more relaxed as we try to maximize time outdoors and summer fun!

Children in our CRE program must be out of diapers. Please do not send your child into the CRE building if they have experienced fever or vomiting within the last 24 hours.

At least 2 approved adults supervise children during our CRE program. If we have enough attendance to require more than one class, an approved adult may circulate between classes to satisfy our supervision requirements. Before working with children, approved adults must complete an application, reference check, background check, and training session.

Yes! Before service begins at 10:30am, families with toddlers and young children can use our Toddler Room. During service, at least 2 adults or 1 adult and 1 teen helper supervise the toddlers until the end of service.

Yes! Children are welcome to stay with their parents. We offer books and coloring bags in a basket near the entrance for any family to use during service.

Children and youth stay with their parents in service for the first 10-15 minutes. Each service features a special children’s minute when we might read a book related to the service theme or share a story or song. After this, children (3+) and youth are led by our CRE adult leaders to the CRE building, just behind our main sanctuary.

When children first gather in the CRE building, we enjoy a brief snack and check in time. During our time together, we help children explore the tenets that Unitarian Universalists hold dear; we encourage them to articulate their beliefs and values in a supportive atmosphere and through developmentally appropriate activities. Each month, we investigate different themes to help better understand our roots as Unitarian Universalists as well as explore varied world religious beliefs and practices. The Unitarian Universalist Association provides a curriculum, “Soul Matters”, which we use alongside games, songs, crafts, and outdoor activities.

We take into account each child’s unique personality and allow them to participate as they feel comfortable. We reinforce that all people are important and are to be treated with kindness and respect. Children and youth are free to choose not to participate in CRE if they are not comfortable. There are child friendly books and toys in the Toddler Room if a parent feels more comfortable listening to the service while supporting their child. Parents are also welcome to accompany their children to the CRE building and stay for the duration of the service if they wish, though parents will not be asked to supervise activities.

We work closely with the congregation so that the children feel connected and included. To this end, the children and youth participate in some Sunday services (i.e., flower communion, Dia de los Muertos, etc.) to share their creations and thoughts with other members of the congregation. Children are included in all congregational functions such as pot-luck lunches, holiday events, and other regular gatherings.

We welcome and encourage parents of children who participate in CRE to volunteer regularly. Before working with children, approved adults must complete an application, reference check, background check, and training session.