Welcome to our Nursery "Children are a gift from the Lord; They are a real blessing." -Psalm 127:3 We welcome you....  and your child(ren) to our nursery care ministry at Ginter Park United Methodist Church. We believe that  each and every child is a gift from God and we will do all that we can to make your child's stay with us a loving and nurturing experience. Infants and toddlers have basic needs for love, approval security a safe enviorment, and opportunities to express themselves. Our nursery care program seeks to meet these needs in each child in a variety of ways. It is our goal to provide the best care possible for your child. In doing so we know that you will be comfortable entrusting your child to us as you seek to meet your own spritual needs in study, worship and fellowship. Your input is important to us. If at any time you have questions, concerns or recommendations about our nursery facility or out nursery care ministry, please feel free to call our Director of Christian Education Anne Durrett, at (804) 262-8651. Who will care for my child? We employ a competent dedicated staff who provide continuity for the young children who come with their families to church on Sunday, as well as to the other activities during the week. Jennifer Didlake is assisted as needed by adult colunteers in the infant nursery care as a part of their service to the church. All nursery workers are screened, scheduled, and supervised by the Director of Christian Education, the Education Chair and the Nursery  Coordinator. Where are the rooms? Your child will be cared for in the children's wing of our education building. Our nursery rooms consist of two seperate rooms: a room for infants and non-walkers, and a room for toddlers ( in the Early Education Sunday School Room). Each room is staffed as need and equipped with new age-appropriate toys which are cleaned and monitored regularly for safety and use. When is care provided? We offer nursery care for all church wide events and activities, such as SUnday School, worship services, choir, and special seasonal events. We also provide care for other events and meetings if requested in advance so that we can arrange an appropriate ration of caregivers. Care for the young children is provided and paid for through the support of the general church budget. What happens when we arrive at the nursery? You will be greeted at the door of the child care rooms by one of our caregivers, who will explain our sign-in procedure and identification system. You will also be asked to share any of your child's likes and dislikes. alergies, sleeping and eating routines, and any other information you think will help us give your child the best care. Please allow a few extra minutes on your first visit with your child to complete this important infomation. What do we need to bring? Parents are encouraged to bring to the nursery any items that will help your child feel comfortable and secure, such as a special blanket, bottle, pacifier. favorite toy for your child stay. You must clearly label all your child's belongings What if my child is upset? Some children are shy during thier first visits in the nursery. It is normal for them to cry as their parents depart. Parents are welcome to bring in your child for the first time for a few minutes. Your child will be loved and comforted by our staff, and most children adjust quickly. If you feel the need to return to the nursery to check on your child at any time, please remain at the door and ask one of the caregivers about your child. Children must readjust to seperation each time a parent returns to the nursery. What if my child is sick? If your child show any signs of illness (fever, vomiting, or unclear nasal discharges within the last 24 hours), please do not bring them to the nursery. Help us keep all our children health, including yours! You Can Help? We hope you will become actively involved in our children's ministry at GPUMC. You can help in a variety of ways, including volunteering to assist the nursery with child-care on an occasional basis. Other opportunities to help include teaching in our Sunday School, assisting with weekday programs and our Wednesday Night Fellowship.