Early Years Conference: Engaging Children and Families in Faith

Our recent Early Years Conference was a joy-filled day, which sparked fresh ideas for engaging young children and their families in faith.

Over 60 participants joined us at St John’s House for an event packed with insights and inspiration. The conference explored a range of topics around faith in the Early Years and featured two expert speakers, Caroline Montgomery and Carolyn Edwards, who are both widely respected in this area of ministry.

The day began with an introduction from Jo Haslam (Diocesan Early Years Adviser), followed by a welcome and blessing from Bishop Mark Davies. Susie Mapledoram (Assistant Director of Education) and Rick Otto (Diocesan Children’s Officer) then led a time of reflective worship, setting the tone for the theme: ‘Refreshed and Refilled’.

Caroline Montgomery, Refresh Pioneer, shared her visionary approach to toddler groups through the Refresh Programme. Her innovative model shifts the focus beyond traditional formats, prioritising the spiritual nourishment of parents and carers alongside their children.

Carolyn Edwards, Ministry with Children and Young People Officer, delivered a thought-provoking session on Holiness in the Early Years. Her reflections on the role of play in faith development offered a fresh perspective and practical ideas for ministry.

Attendees also took part in three workshops designed to equip them with practical tools and strategies for nurturing faith in under-fives:

• The Big Bible Storybook Toddler Resource
• Inclusion Strategies for Toddler Groups
• Playful Prayer: Helping Under-Fives Talk to God Through Play

In the afternoon, we explored exciting developments in our diocesan Early Years programme, including new resources and creative outreach strategies to help churches welcome young families. A lively Q&A session with our expert speakers followed.

The day closed with a thoughtful reflection from Diocesan Director of Education Deborah Smith, and a final blessing from Bishop Mark.

Thank you to everyone who attended and to all who helped make the day possible. Special thanks to Bishop Mark Davies for his encouraging welcome and blessings, to the Education Team for their hard work in making sure the day ran smoothly, and to Caroline and Carolyn for sharing their inspiring vision and expertise.

It was hugely encouraging to hear positive feedback from attendees, with comments such as:

“An encouraging atmosphere. Very positive, affirming words from the Bishop.”

“I thought it was really well thought through – the speakers were lively and interesting.”

Want to Know More?

If you’d like to explore the ideas, resources, and initiatives shared at the conference, please contact Jo Haslam. Whether you’re curious about Refresh, keen to introduce Playful Prayer to your toddler group, or simply want to connect with others passionate about Early Years ministry, we’d love to hear from you!