How it works
Every child gets a buddy and a plan that fits.
The same caring adult stays with each child through the Sunday school hour. Depending on the child and the day, the buddy might stay with them in class, teach the same lesson somewhere calmer, or take a break with them in the sensory room.
A Sunday with Special Friends
Predictable, short, and built around the child
Arrive
Some children settle in the sensory room first. Others go right to class with their buddy.
See the plan
A picture schedule shows what's coming, so changes feel safe.
- About 5 min
Move
A movement warm-up: a hallway obstacle course, Simon Says or simple yoga.
- 15 to 20 min
Bible time
The week's Bible lesson, adapted with pictures, music and hands-on activities.
Free time
The child picks a picture card to choose what to play for the rest of the hour.
Make picture cards for your own Sunday
Moving toward the classroom
Full inclusion is the goal. Each child starts where they are.
Every child starts where they are and moves toward the classroom at their own pace. Tap or click a step to see what it looks like.
Top: most support. Bottom: in the classroom.
Buddies
You don't need a degree to be someone's friend.
A buddy is a steady friend who helps a child take part in church. Buddies have been grandparents, teenagers, college students and a car mechanic who had never done anything like it. Most say they came to love a child and left changed.
What a buddy provides
What makes a great buddy
- A growing relationship with Christ
- A willingness to learn
- A desire to serve
Anyone willing to learn can be a buddy.
Where to next