How to Behave in Church (For Kids)

Last Updated: May 6, 2021

Children can become bored and restless during a church service, but it is not usually welcome for them to misbehave or be restless while others are trying to pay attention and participate. Technically speaking, this does not apply to merely little children, but surprisingly, applies to most high school students, as well as some adults, especially if you have ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder).

Steps

1
Come to church prepared for the service. This means, at least for kids old enough to understand, to use the restroom, have a drink of water, and if appropriate, to eat a meal before entering the sanctuary, or not to chew gum during the service. Hungry or thirsty kids may have a hard time enduring the hour or longer service, and going to the bathroom can be a disruption for several people as you make your way between the pews or seats and down the aisles.
2
Keep reasonably still and quiet. For most church-goers, the service is a solemn event, and unwanted noise or movements can distract people.
3
Dress comfortably. If it is cold outdoors, wear a jacket that can be removed before you are seated so you are not hot and sweaty while you listen to the liturgy or message. For hot weather, especially with no air conditioning, avoid wearing formal attire like a suit jacket and tie unless it is required by your religious faith or beliefs.
4
Sit in an inconspicuous location. Sitting toward the back or at least near an aisle will decrease the distraction for others if your behavior does become a problem.
5
Listen quietly and pay attention to the service. If you are interested in the events going on, you will be less noisy.
6
Keep your hands to yourself. Don't tug at people sitting near you, or bother their belongings if they are within reach.
7
Find or bring a piece of paper to doodle or scribble on to keep yourself busy if you are unable to tolerate the desired behavior. You may need to bring a pen or pencil, as well, if there are none available. Never draw or write in the church's publications if they are found in the seats.
8
Participate as part of the group when the leader of the service asks the congregation to rise for prayer, singing, or other activities. Sing with the adults, if it is appropriate, but don't sing in too loud of voice if you are not familiar with the song, or you simply cannot carry a tune.
9
Look for alternatives if you just can't manage to behave for the service. Some churches have children's classes or groups to keep the kids busy while adults worship.

Community Q&A

Question

How should kids behave during trips to different churches?

Community Answer

They should behave as they should behave in any other church. Just because it's a different church doesn't mean one should behave differently. Guests should be polite.
Question

How can I be ready for church without a hustle?

DanteInAthens

Community Answer

Try laying out clothing you will wear to church the night before, therefore you will save time by not having to go through your clothing to decide what to wear.
Question

How do I behave in the Amish Church?

Community Answer

Just be polite and follow what everyone else is doing.
Question

What should you teenagers wear around Easter at Church?

Community Answer

A collared, long sleeve shirt with long pants is appropriate. Or, if it's too hot, wear a short-sleeved, collared shirt and long, thin pants.
Question

How do kids dress formally?

Community Answer

The same way adults do, essentially. Button-up or polo shirts and nice slacks.
Question

Is it appropriate for a child in the 5th grade to play games on an iPad during the service?

Community Answer

A child in the 5th grade (assuming they don't have any developmental disorders, etc.) is old enough to listen to and understand most of the sermon, so that is what they should be doing during the service.
Question

Do you walk when someone is praying?

Community Answer

Not usually. You are supposed to remain completely still and quiet, with your eyes closed. This is a time between you and God, not a time to observe your surroundings.
Question

How can a 13 year old stay busy if bored during church without reading or using the phone?

Community Answer

Silence your phone, and play some alphabet games in your head maybe. Think of as many countries that have T or L as the first letter, for example. Play games involving spotting people wearing certain colors or types of clothing. You can probably come up with other game ideas.
Question

Church is supposed to allow everyone to join worship. Some like worshipping quietly, some like to do it shouting, with adults and together with children! Is it appropriate to let kids run around and make noise?

Community Answer

Unless children are participating in an organized children church class, they should not be allowed to run around and make noise during worship services. Talk to the preacher/priest/officiant about it after a noisy service and ask them to put a stop to it.
Question

If a kid colors a coloring page at church, during the sermon, is it too loud?

KY_GirlatHeart

Community Answer

To reduce any unnecessary noise, have them use a baggie for their coloring supplies that won't make a whole bunch of noise when they open/close it, and avoid letting them bring coloring tools that make a lot of noise. Also, make sure that they don't rub their coloring tool too hard on the paper to avoid any noise.