Sundays Are Just The Beginning
Lifespan Learning offers families age-appropriate programs for children and youth that encourage them to discover their values, understand the beliefs of others, learn how to make a difference, and have fun.
Families Growing Together
“It takes a village to raise a child.”
This African proverb reminds us that an entire community must interact with children for those children to grow up healthy and confident. Many families have found that village at Neighbourhood.
Neighbourhood offers programs on Sunday mornings for children and youth ages 3-18, as well as all ages family events and other activities throughout the week.
Spirit Play
Ages 3-8
We call our littles ‘Sprouts’ because they are sprouting into their own values and beliefs in our program. Similar to Montessori, it allows your young spiritual learner to have a mix of guided and self-directed learning through play.
Due to COVID-19 restrictions a modified version of this program is currently in the works. Sign-up to let you know as soon as the new program is available
Grow as individuals and as a family
Build true friendships, while your children play, interact, learn, and grow through fun activities and carefully designed children programs.
Explore thoughts and emotions in a welcoming and safe environment.
Enjoy art and music. Laugh and sometimes cry at the pain and joy that is life
Find a helpful hand, someone to listen, a shoulder to cry on – when you need it most.
Upcoming Kids & Family Events
What is Lifespan Learning?
We seek to provide a variety of opportunities for young people to engage in service, community building, and social action; to explore world religions and diverse spiritual practices; and to develop their own theology, values, leadership skills and sense of truth, while having fun!
By attending regularly over a period of years children will receive a well-balanced program covering a variety of topics and perspectives.
But LL is not just for kids! We offer activities to support parents in the challenging but rewarding journey to raise spiritually alive children too.
FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions about our children and family programs:
0. Modified Program due to COVID-19 restrictions
Due to COVID-19 restrictions a modified version of this program is currently in the works. Sign-up to let you know as soon as the new program is available.
1. What happens on Sunday morning?
Sunday morning service begins at 10:30 am with people of all ages gathered in the main space. Announcements are read first, and then service starts. Children 13 and under attend the service for the first 15 minutes, including a “Time for all Ages” which is often a story. After the story, the children go to their own rooms for their Lifespan Learning programs. The specific room and the names of the volunteer leaders will be announced, and then children follow their leaders to their classroom. Lifespan Learning programs continue until service ends.
Note: Our Youth Group (ages 14-18) have Lifespan Learning programs on specific Sundays, from 10:30 am – 12 pm.
2. What happens when Lifespan Learning programs end?
Children 11 and up are dismissed to parental care immediately after their Lifespan Learning program ends. Children 10 and under who are not picked up immediately by a parent or caregiver will enter our “After-Care” program, generally held in the Wright Room. The After-Care program provides supervised free-play time for children until 12:30 pm, while parents chat or attend meetings. A suggested donation of $2 is appreciated for each Sunday parents use the after-care program.
3. Can I sit in on my child’s lifespan learning class?
Of course! We’re always happy to have parents attend class with their child. Please speak to the leader of your child’s class beforehand if possible, so they can fill you in on the activities that will take place and any expectations for your participation.
The “Wiggle Room,” a friendly space for infants and toddlers.
4. Are there programs for infants/toddlers?
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5. What should we wear?
Feel free to dress yourself and your child however you feel comfortable. Most attendees dress casually. Children may engage in active games or go outdoors during Lifespan Learning classes, so keep this in mind.
6. How do I register my child for the Lifespan Learning program?
There is generally an information session for parents at the beginning of each program year in September. For most programs, it is also possible to register throughout the year. Please use the contact form on this page if you’re interested in registering so we can help you with that process.
7. Is there a cost to register my child for the Lifespan Learning program?
The Lifespan Learning program is supported by the monetary pledges and donations of Neighbourhood members and friends. There is no fee to register your child.
8. Can my child bring a friend to the program?
Absolutely — we welcome all people here.
9. I’m new. Is there anything I should know?
A special welcome to you! What a wonderful journey you have begun. Please take some time to read through the materials on this website. You might also wish to make an appointment to meet or chat with the Lifespan Learning facilitator working with your child’s age group. You can discuss any questions or concerns, and explore avenues for your family’s spiritual growth at Neighbourhood. We understand that you may be “testing the waters” for a time, to see if Neighbourhood is a good fit for your family. Generally, we ask that you register your child for the program after attending for three Sundays.
Give Us A Shout
We’ll be happy to talk more about our children and family events.