Children are always welcome in our Sunday worship services — and if you’ve ever heard a child laugh during a sermon, you know we mean it. But for families who want something age-specific for their kids, we have an active Sunday School program that runs during the 11:00 am service, with caring volunteers and staff ready to receive them.
Your child's safety is our highest priority. All staff and volunteers working with children are screened and background-checked. Pre-registration is available — and encouraged — to make Sunday morning check-in fast and easy.
Nursery
Infants and toddlers are lovingly cared for in our upstairs Nursery throughout the 11:00 am service. Access via the elevator in the Office Lobby. Parents are always welcome.
Sunday School
Kids begin worship in the Sanctuary with the congregation, then depart for Sunday School during the Passing of the Peace. Classes include Bible lessons, crafts, discussion, and plenty of fun. Pre-registration is encouraged — check in at the Sunday School table in the Narthex from 10:45 am.
Club 456
A dedicated program for upper-elementary kids navigating the bridge between childhood and the teenage years. Club 456 meets once a month for community, Bible exploration, and activities designed specifically for this pivotal age group — with lunch provided.
"Whoever receives one such child in my name receives me, and whoever receives me, receives not me but him who sent me."
First United Methodist has a growing youth program built around a simple conviction: teenagers need a safe space to be honest about their questions, their struggles, and their faith. From Sunday gatherings to service projects to events around Sarasota, we’re building real community for junior and senior high students.
Sunday Youth Gathering
Every Sunday during the 11:00am service, youth gather for fellowship, discussion, and an exploration of what it looks like to follow Jesus in everyday teenage life. We take the Gospels seriously — and we take questions seriously too.
The focus isn’t on performance or perfection. It’s on helping students build trusting relationships, develop a real faith of their own, and discover that the Church is a place they can belong — even (especially) when life is hard.
"My refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust."
Register for Youth Group
Beyond Sunday mornings, the year is punctuated with events and programs that give kids and youth new experiences, new friendships, and new reasons to love being part of this community.
Vacation Bible School
A beloved annual week of Bible stories, music, crafts, and community for children ages 3 through 5th grade. Free for all ECC children. Registration opens in spring.
Mira Mar Music Camp
Back-to-School Blast
A high-energy celebration to kick off the school year — building excitement and community as kids head back into the classroom.
Advent Workshop
A special children's event during the Advent season, bringing the Christmas story to life through hands-on crafts, activities, and worship experiences.
Youth Prayer Retreats
Junior and senior high students step away from the daily rush for focused time together — praying, sharing, and deepening their relationship with God and each other.
Youth Outings & Activities
From waterparks and arcades to service trips, youth group events throughout the year form the kind of friendships that last well beyond high school.
Pre-registering your child takes just a few minutes and makes Sunday morning check-in fast and hassle-free. Choose the program that fits your child’s age — or reach out and we’ll help you figure out where they belong.
Children's Sunday School & Club 456
Youth Group — Grades 7–12
VBS & Mira Mar Music Camp
Song Squad — Thursdays, Kindergarten through Grade 5
Questions? Contact our ministry staff directly: