North Way Kids
At North Way Kids, we strive to create safe environments and engaging opportunities for children to discover who Jesus is and how they can apply Biblical truth to their lives, all while partnering with parents in this journey.
What to Expect
Our Philosophy
North Way considers itself to be an “Orange Church.” This is far bigger than simply a curriculum to follow, rather it’s a strategy to implement. We believe that the combined influences of the love of the home (red) and the light of the church (yellow) have a greater impact in a child’s life. (Red + Yellow = Orange.)
Early Childhood
Our early childhood (birth - preschool) environments are available during all three weekend services. These offer our youngest kids a clean, safe, and loving place to sing, play and learn about God. Our adult and student leaders work hard to provide a loving and caring environment for our littlest ones.
Elementary
Our elementary (kindergarten - 5th grade) environments are available in all three weekend services. Here, we focus on providing kids a chance to discover who Jesus is. Kids will connect with adult and student leaders, sing together, hear the Bible come to life through creative and exciting storytelling, and engage in meaningful small group discussions.
Events
Meet Our Kids Staff
Erin Stevens
Kids Ministry Director
"Having come to know Jesus at a young age myself, I have experienced firsthand how teaching children that Jesus loves them and that they can trust God no matter what can build a firm foundation of faith. I love creating environments and opportunities that allow children to KNOW the Biblical lessons that we tailor to each specific age group, EXPERIENCE the love of God, and learn to FOLLOW in Jesus’ ways. Sharing the hope of the gospel while providing children the opportunity to grow in faith and friendship is why I love leading in this way. It is an honor and joy to partner with parents in the spiritual development of their children!"
- Erin Stevens
Raynae Watenpool
Autism Ministry Coordinator
Tyler Vandenberg
Family Ministry Production Manager
Sara Gaab
Saturday Kids Coordinator
Areo Donahue
Worship Coordinator
Brittney Saltsman
Early Childhood Coordinator
Kids Ministry FAQs
What curriculum do you use?
North Way considers itself to be an “Orange Church.” This is far bigger than simply a curriculum to follow, rather it’s a strategy to implement. We believe that the combined influences of the love of the home (red) and the light of the church (yellow) have a greater impact in a child’s life. (Red + Yellow = Orange.) The curriculum that is provided as part of this strategy emphasizes several key points. For early childhood that would be: God made me, God loves me and Jesus wants to be my friend forever. In elementary those points are: I need to make the wise choice, I can trust God no matter what, and I should treat others the way I want to be treated. You can find more information about our curriculum at thinkorange.com.
What offerings do you have for kids with special needs?
We currently have an Autism Ministry located at our Sewickley Valley Campus and are working to include this ministry across all campuses. Please reach out to the kids director of the campus you attend to see what specific offerings may be available to your child at your campus.
What do my children need to bring?
There is nothing that your children need to bring except for the expectation of having a great time while learning about the God who made them, knows them, and loves them. If they have a Bible they would like to bring they are certainly welcome to and will have moments where they can practice finding their memory verse throughout the morning. Otherwise, we will supply everything they need for their morning in Kids Church.
What safety protocols do you follow?
Safety is paramount in North Way Kids. Each of our locations is equipped with an electronic check-in system, a secure area that is restricted to only adults and students with up-to-date State police, Child Abuse and FBI clearances and a safety team that is trained to observe and respond appropriately to any situation. In addition to the standard clearances, each of our kids staff members are trained in child and adult AED/CPR.
Do I need to preregister or sign up before I show up?
No preregistration is required! When you arrive, if it is the first time, make your way to the kids check-in desk. There you will be instructed to fill out a new family form and your child’s name tags will be printed. Be sure to return the new family form so that you can be entered into the database for future visits. On subsequent visits you will simply enter your phone number on the iPad to check in.
Serve in Kids Ministry
Because we are made uniquely in the image of God, together we reflect the beauty of Christ and his fullness. Our kid’s team will come alongside you in helping you assess how you can best use your specific gifts to teach our children to know, love, and follow God.