Children and Youth Ministry

The community at First Presbyterian Church of New Canaan is inclusive; families of all faiths, denominations and orientations are welcome. We also recognize that “family” means different things to different people, and we welcome families of all shapes and sizes at FPCNC.
 
Our Children’s Ministries’ mission is to glorify God by supporting families with children, from birth through 6th grade, in leading them to live spiritually, to love inclusively, to learn continuously, and to leave a legacy. As such we:
  • Provide each child with a safe, nurturing and stimulating learning environment
  • Provide an engaging curriculum for children ages 3 through 6th grade that encourages children to learn and remember the Bible stories
  • Cultivate a community where children feel comfortable asking questions, having doubts and knowing that all ideas are welcome
  • Create opportunities to foster lasting relationships with teachers, clergy and other church members
Our Youth Ministries serve youth from 6th grade through their senior year of high school and beyond, empowering them to live spiritually, to love inclusively, to learn continuously, and to leave a legacy. As such we:
  • Create an engaging space for youth to develop into young adults with a commitment to their spirituality who ask BIG questions about God, justice, and service.
  • Provide opportunities for further learning, including confirmation class, Bible studies, and more!
  • Enjoy fun fellowship-driven activities, where youth can connect with each other and develop lasting friendships
  • Serve our communities along the way!
If you have any questions, please reach out to Stephanie Hare, Director of Family Ministries at stephanie@fpcnc.org

Sunday School

Pre-K to 7th Grade

In Sunday School, we explore Bible stories and think about how to apply the lessons we learn from those stories in our everyday lives. We wonder and ask questions about God, Jesus, the Holy Spirit, and the world around us. We talk about how to be good neighbors and how to care for God’s creation.

Sunday School meets concurrently with our worship services on Sunday mornings from September to June. Children begin worship in the sanctuary with their families, then following the Blessing for Young Disciples, we move to our Sunday School classes upstairs in the Bliss House.

Confirmation Class

In our Presbyterian tradition, confirmation class is a special opportunity for youth to explore their maturing faith and understanding of Discipleship – what it means to be a follower of Jesus and a member of a church community. High School and older Middle School students who are interested in taking a deeper dive into faith, service, and leadership are invited to take part in a year long journey of study, prayer, and mentorship.

If you or your child are interested in exploring Confirmation, please reach out to Pastor Scott Herr (scott@fpcnc.org) or Director of Family Ministries, Stephanie Hare, (stephanie@fpcnc.org).

Sunday Morning Childcare

We have dedicated child care for any child during our Sunday morning worship service. This service is available from 8:45-11:30am – parents please drop off your children at the main level Nursery School entrance inside and pick them up after service.

Wee Care Nanny Agency provides nannies and services.  Wee Care is located at 21 Fifth Street, 1st Floor, Stamford, CT 06905 at 203-359-8410.  Click their website for more information.  If you want to hire babysitters for your personal needs, please contact them directly and do not go through our hired nannies.

First Presbyterian Nursery School

First Presbyterian Nursery School (FPNS) has been an integral part of the community since 1969. 

FPNS is an independent, non-denominational nursery school for the education of preschool-aged children, enabling them to grow socially, physically, emotionally, and intellectually. Charm and a play-based nursery school experience meet today’s curriculum standards in which children play, laugh, learn, and grow with loving, experienced teachers. 

Located in one of the most picturesque areas of New Canaan, the well-planned facility includes large, bright classrooms, each housing a two-story indoor playhouse. The spacious grounds with an expansive playground allow students to spend a good part of each day outdoors, no matter the season!