Welcome to B3Kids! We are the ministry for infants through 5th graders. We exist to make disciples who make disciples. Our leaders are committed to teaching children about Jesus and providing a safe, nurturing environment where God’s love is evident to every child who walks through our doors. Please see some frequently asked questions below and feel free to reach out to our Children’s Ministry Director, Ebon Freeman-James, if you need further information. You can reach her at b3engage@gmail.com or by calling the church office at 910-424-7211.
What’s new in the Children’s Ministry Department?
Our department is now known as B3Kids which serves children from birth through 5th grade, and we gather in the Family Life Center on our campus. In January of 2022, we completed a light remodel of the area to accommodate all of our B3Kids in a space that is safe, welcoming and inviting to children. We know that kids learn best in environments that are designed with their needs in mind, and we want our ministry space to be age appropriate AND fun. There is a prominent Biblical theme, kid sized furniture, increased safety measure and a more cohesive look.
When is B3Kids open?
We are open for Infant – 5th grade programs during the 9:30 a.m. and 11:11 a.m. services. Drop off begins 10 minutes prior to the start of each service time and pick up is immediately following the conclusion of each service. If parents are staying on campus during both services (for small groups, Bible study, rehearsals, etc) children may stay for the entire time.
What is the drop off and pick up procedure?
As you arrive on our campus, please come to the Family Life Center (the white building) to check in your child/ren. A parent or legal guardian will use a computer-based sign in system which will print a name tag for your child and note any allergies or medical concerns. Parents will receive a matching tag for check out which will be needed when you pick up your child/ren to ensure everyone goes home with the correct adult. Then, a ministry leader will answer any questions you have and take your child to his or her classroom. After the service, parents come to the double doors past the bathrooms and show the pickup tag to a ministry leader in order to check out your child. A leader will bring your child out to you and compare nametags before releasing your child. As a safety precaution, only B3Kids, parents with a matching tag and leaders with lanyards are allowed in the hallway.
Who are the leaders?
The leaders and directors in B3Kids are dedicated volunteers who attend Arran Lake Baptist Church that love working with children and sharing the Gospel. Every leader in our department has completed a background check, attends ongoing training on relevant children’s ministry and child safety topics and has signed a ministry agreement which is in alignment with our church’s values related to service.
Our B3Kids Directors are Phyllis Isenhour (Infant – Kindergarten), Tana Dickson (1st – 5th grade), Heather Bobbey (AWANA) and Samantha Davis (VBS/Wild Week). Our directors have served over 50 years collectively and have called Arran Lake their home church for many more. Our Director of Children’s Ministry is Ebon Freeman-James and will be happy to help if you have any questions or comments. She can be reached at b3engage@gmail.com
What does my child do in B3Kids?
Children in grades 1 – 5 participate in a worship experience during the 9:30 a.m. service and small group Bible study during the 11:11 a.m. service. Younger children and infants remain in their classrooms for a rotating schedule of faith-based activities and play. Teachers often send home worksheets or Bible lessons for children to complete at home during the week as a way to encourage ongoing study and family discipleship.
During the 2021/2022 school year we offer AWANA clubs that meet on Wednesday evenings. AWANA groups have book sections to complete, Biblically based activities and Bible verses to memorize each week. Capacity for this group is currently full but we look forward to rolling out a wonderful new evening program for the 2022/2023 year so stay tuned!
How can we build on what they’ve learned at church?
We care for your children for only an hour or two a week and want to ensure that the lessons they learn in church are lifelong. We know that parents are the largest influence in a child’s life. So, we want to partner with you to disciple your children at home. We encourage parents to read the Bible with their child, complete worksheets or activities provided by teachers and ask what they’ve learned each week. Periodically you’ll find small groups or Bible studies offered here based on parenting topics as well. If you would like additional ideas or resources, please ask any of the ministry directors, we’re happy to help!
How are we encouraging a healthy environment?
Although COVID-19 has brought on enhanced cleaning methods, B3Kids will continue to thoroughly clean rooms, encourage hand washing and remind parents that children or household members experiencing signs of illness join us virtually instead of in person.