Date: 24 February 2022
Tots Praise is a big hit for all those who come to it at St Paul’s Camberley.
“We started start Tots Praise, as we already have a thriving Parent and Toddler group,” says Bethany Wood, the church’s Children and Families Pastor. “We thought we’d offer another which had more of a Christian focus. Coming out of the pandemic, so many parents, carers and grandparents are in need of spaces to meet other people and let their kids socialise,” she says.
Tot’s Praise is a mix of free playtime for the babes to five years olds and refreshments for the parents and carers. Then Bethany and the team of volunteers launch into action songs, an interactive Bible story, the wiggle song, a prayer candle, praising with shakers and guitar and the ‘big finish’ - a visit for the puppet Derek the Dinosaur.
Those attending are a mix of congregation members and people from the wider community. “It really is a mixture of those with mature faith to no faith,” says Bethany. “It has been lovely seeing friendships formed across the group.”
One mum reflects, “My little one beams through Tots Praise. It is such a lovely atmosphere, and the structure is really good for the children.”
Tots Praise now includes the same all-age worship songs as the church sings on Sunday mornings. “It’s so that if any come along on a Sunday, they can feel welcomed and connected with the wider church,” says Bethany.
Bethany says Tot’s Praise is one of the highlights of her week. “I always get such a boost from the energy the kids bring, and you can really feel God is moving in the sessions. You can’t feel anything but joy after singing about God’s love and seeing friendships grow between those attending the group.”
She hopes to see the group grow in the future. “Those simple messages of faith are hopefully seeds planted in those attending.”