Kids Team Expectations

Build rapport with the children.

This can be done by learning their names, playing games with them, helping them with the activities they are doing. Talking to them for example, about their week, school, sports, friends & families.

Initiative

As you become familiar with the routine, help where needed. For example, organizing morning snack, asking a host to help with the toilet run, and getting materials/games out for children.

Child-safe space/environment

Conversations with the children need to be safe and appropriate.
If a child says something inappropriate, don’t continue the conversation and let them know it isn't appropriate/safe. If unsure, talk to the leader. What one person deems appropriate may not necessarily be. Be wise.

Respectful

Being respectful of all children and adults in the space.
There are no favourites.

Contact

Contact and touch with the children needs to be safe.
No children sitting on the laps of adults and other children. If a child wants a hug, this can be done but safely. Don’t prolong the hug and be wise with your body positioning. Don’t be alone with a child or group of children. If something unforeseen happens and this occurs, ask a responsible child to get a host.

If a child wants pray, ask first if they are happy for you to place a hand on their shoulder. Ask for consent if you can pray for a child If you have a word for a child, if you can talk to their parents first. When sharing it, make sure you have another adult with you, preferably their parent(s). And again, ask the child for consent.

Photos

No photos can be taken of the children on your personal phone. If a child wants a photo taken of what they have done in kids church, let their parents know and they can take a photo of it. Make sure no other children are in the photo.

Phones

Leaders can bring in their phones to gateway kids. Make sure it is on silent. Children are not to use leaders phones. If children bring in their personal phones, they need to be kept in their bag, or placed in craft cupboard.

Behaviour Guidance

There will be times when children’s behaviour is unsafe and leaders will need to talk to that child. Communicate in a normal voice, ask the child to stop and redirect where necessary. Make sure the other children/leaders are safe. If unsure what to do, please ask another leader to help.