Children & Family
Meet Kat!
Kat Martins-Grey she/they/iel is the Director of Children, Youth and
Families here at Neighbourhood Unitarian Universalist Congregation
(NUUC). She leads inclusive, values-based programming that supports the spiritual growth, well-being, and connection of children, youth, and families within a multigenerational community.
With a background in social services work and nursing, Kat brings a
compassionate, trauma-informed approach to her work. They have
experience in program development, community outreach, and facilitating educational initiatives that engage diverse communities across Canada and abroad. Her work is grounded in a strong commitment to equity, accessibility, and creating spaces where all families feel seen, supported, and have a true sense of belonging.
Kat is also the co-founder of a nonprofit initiative in Uganda focused
on community-building and anti-racism. They also took a post-graduate certificate in creative and professional book publishing thanks to their love of writing and as a certified death doula, she brings a holistic perspective to care across people’s lives-utilizing the power of written words and song to heal. They are also passionate about supporting young people as they explore identity, spirituality, and justice in ways that are empowering, inclusive, and deeply connected to community, and currently help teach Undergraduate students in inclusive education, whilst pursuing her own studies at the Masters level.
Want to connect with Kat? Email her/them at: families@nuuc.ca
The Rainbow Room
This is where we gather for fun, stories, and exploration. Why do we call it the “Rainbow Room”? Across the world the rainbow is a symbol of hope, love, and acceptance.
Your child brings their individual learning styles and interests. We reflect this in our variety of structured and open-ended activities for children ages 5-12. My wonderful team of adult volunteers have all had their Vulnerable Sector Checks and are members of NUUC. My teen helpers were in a the LL program when they were kids! The room is connected to the sanctuary, so your kids will always be nearby.
If your child is new to NUUC, we invite you to remain with them in the Rainbow Room for one Sunday, so you can both get a feel for the program.
Connect
Build true friendships, while your children play, interact, learn, and grow through fun activities and carefully designed children’s programs. Explore thoughts and emotions in a welcoming and safe environment. Enjoy art and music. Laugh and sometimes cry at the pain and joy of life. Find a helpful hand, someone to listen, a shoulder to cry on – when you need it most.
Time For All Ages
This is a time, about 15 minutes into the service, when the kids can either,
🍄 gather with Kat at her story toadstool
🎨 remain at the activity table and listen from there
👪 stay with their parents/caregivers
It’s their choice governed by their own comfort level.
Time For All Ages can take on different forms — reading/telling a story, a puppet show, a play, a series of tableau, a bunch of poems — there’s lots of variety! After the Time For All Ages, the kids are sung into the Rainbow Room for their own program.
When you arrive in the sanctuary, look for our kids’ activity table, a supervised area with a variety of activities to keep busy hands engaged during the Sunday service, up until their program begins. You can join your kids there, or drop them off and focus on the service while we focus on your child.
Check out the Wiggle Room
Our Wiggle Room is stocked with toys and board books for babies and toddlers.
Listen to the service on the comfy couch, nurse your baby on the rocker.
Why Choose Neighbourhood?
Our culture of exploration within a supportive and nurturing environment
Our commitment to inclusivity, diversity, and making a positive impact on society
Our community of people with diverse beliefs who come together through shared values with love at our centre
What is Lifespan Learning?
Lifespan Learning provides a supportive and engaging environment, based on values of open-mindedness, curiosity, respect, community, and the quest for knowledge, where people of all ages can embark on a journey of discovery, growth, and connection.
Children (Currently offering)
Engaging and age-appropriate programs that nurture our children’s sense of wonder, exploring spirituality, values, and the world around them through storytelling, arts and crafts, and interactive discussions.
Adults (See small groups)
We host a variety of learning circles for adults, where members delve into topics like philosophy, literature, science, and spirituality. These circles foster lively discussions, connection, and personal growth.
Inter-generational
We believe in the power of bringing generations together. Our inter-generational workshops, events, and projects provide opportunities for different age groups to learn from and inspire one another.
Spirit
Lifespan learning is intertwined with our spiritual journey. Through meditation workshops, religious exploration classes, and contemplative practices, we support each individual in their quest for deeper meaning and connection.
Justice
Our UU values drive us to make a positive impact on the world. Lifespan learning equips us with the knowledge and tools needed to engage Workshops, seminars, and community projects empower us to create change.
Lifespan learning is about embracing new ideas, broadening our horizons, and living out our UU values every day.
Together, we create a tapestry of lifelong learners, woven together by our shared pursuit of wisdom and connection.
