WHERE FRIENDSHIP BEGINS

Rooted In Love And Relationship

Through the work on the cross, Jesus restored our relationship with God and invited us into friendship with Him. He calls us His friends and teaches us to love one another with patience, humility, and care.

Understanding that friendship is not an exact formula, we create space for children to grow in connection and confidence with others in each of our gatherings, using practical hands-on experiences inspired by the wisdom in Scripture.

Practicing Connection Together

Children develop friendship and social skills best with an engaged caregiver. When caregivers join their child, they offer reassurance, model positive interactions, and support social growth. Labs provide a safe and intentional space for these shared experiences where children and caregivers explore play, movement, creativity, and guided activities together.

During each Lab, key areas of social connection and inner growth are gently highlighted and modeled. Adults are invited to observe, participate and picking up the language and rhythms that feel natural to them. The focus is not on "getting it right", but on joining in, adapting, and growing together.

Connection Skills Rooted in Scripture

These are examples of connection skills children practice, reflecting the wisdom of Scripture and helping them live out God's Word in their relationships.

Be devoted to one another in love.- Romans 12:10

• Listening and following directions together

• Learning and using one another's names

• Greeting friends and joining play

• Sharing and taking turns

• Asking for turns and inviting others to play

• Staying calm and regulated during frustration or disappointment

• Practicing cooperation instead of control

• Being a good sport during games

• Sustaining play with others over time

• Joining ongoing play respectfully

• Transitioning between activities together

• Asking for and offering help

• Respecting personal space and body boundaries