Children

Our Children’s Education Ministry department is here to serve families with children ages 6
weeks through 4th grade. We strive to create an environment that is safe and fun, where they
can hear great stories from the bible, as well as our Methodist traditions. We hope to spark their love of God and give families support, resources, and tools to continue to grow in their faith formation outside of the church

Butterflies

Infant - 2 years

Butterflies

It’s never too early for young children to begin hearing stories of faith and learning of God’s unconditional love for them! Each week they will hear a new story, listen to music, do fun group art and activities and, of course, play! We meet in the Nursery area of the Trinity Building.

Guppies

Pre-K 3s and 4s

Guppies

In our Preschool class, we will introduce a new theme each month. The kiddos will explore these messages through stories, snacks, art and music. We meet in the Nursery area of the Trinity Building.

Seekers

Kindergarten - 4th Grade

Seekers

Seekers include our school age children, kindergarten through fourth grade and is available during the Sunday School hour. This year on Sunday mornings we will be studying people from the Bible who showed tremendous faith. We will dive deeper into their stories as we rotate through fun learning environments including art, kitchen, drama, music games, movies and more! We meet in the basement of the Sanctuary building.

Parent Info

We use a rotation Sunday School model where our kids walk their way through the Bible in various stations such as story time, cooking class, art, and more! Come experience the fun of the Sunday Morning Children’s program!

Common FAQ's

Where do the children meet?

On Sundays at 10:00am, children ages Kindergarten through 4th grade meet in the Children’s Wing, which is in the church’s basement. We gather in the large main room right below the sanctuary and split off to our classes from there. Infants to 2 years olds gather in our nursery which is in the Great Hall building.

Are there only activities for kids on Sundays?

No! We offer so much more! Children and family events are offered throughout the year. The Children’s Council sponsors events such as the Easter Egg Hunt, Vacation Bible School, Third Grade Bible Presentation, Back to School Celebration, and an Advent Workshop. We also have regular Wednesday night activities throughout the school year!

What about music programs? Are there opportunities for kids?

Yes! We have a vibrant children’s music program. Head over to the Music page to learn more about voice choirs and chime choirs for kids!

Are there ways I can volunteer?

Volunteer opportunities are available for any of the children’s programs. Teachers and teaching assistants are used each week during Seeker Sunday School. Volunteers to assist with seasonal activities are always welcome as well. Please contact Catherine Gatlin at cgatlin@conwayfumc.org to find the best fit for your availability and comfort level.

All Volunteers are Safe Gatherings Certified. This is a training and approval process we ask all volunteers who work with children, youth, and vulnerable adults to complete before working in our varied ministries. It ensures safe spaces for kids and adults.

Resources for Parents

Safe Gatherings is a program we participate in as part of the larger United Methodist Church in Arkansas that helps to screen and train Adult volunteers who work with children, youth, and vulnerable adults. We want to ensure our learning environments are the safe places for our most vulnerable. Thus, if you want to volunteer in one of these programs, we require you to go through the Safe Gatherings process.

Early Childhood Center

A weekday program for children ages 2 years to 5 years.

The Early Childhood Center (ECC) is a weekday program for children ages 2 years to 5 years. Our goal is to provide a consistent, caring, and respectful environment for children. We encourage creativity, individuality, and self-expression for every child. We actively promote the values and skills needed for social, emotional, intellectual, physical, and spiritual development. The FUMC Early Childhood Center has been an active part of the Conway community for more than 30 years! We strive to provide a positive, nurturing, and caring presence within our community. Love grows here!

You may also contact Angie Hogue, ECC program director, or our Director of Children’s Ministries at Conway FUMC: Catherine Gatlin.

Featured Children's Events

Check out the lastest events happening in our Children’s Ministry!

There are no events available.

Meet Our Children's Team

Catherine Gatlin

Director of Children’s Ministries

Catherine Gatlin is dedicated to fostering love and connection among children and their families at First United Methodist Church. Her journey at FUMC began in 2013 as an assistant in Children’s Ministries, and over the years, she progressed to the roles of interim and co-director by 2021. Catherine's passion lies in guiding children and families to discover their place within our faith community. Having grown up at FUMC, she is committed to ensuring that everyone feels welcomed at the table.

Catherine holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology from Hendrix College (2000) and a master’s degree in social work from the University of Arkansas at Little Rock (2002). Before joining the church, she accumulated diverse experience in medical social work, working with individuals spanning all age groups, from children to older adults.

Outside of her professional life, Catherine is a devoted mother to three energetic boys, always striving to keep up with their bustling activities. She also finds joy in exploring new places through travel. Spotting Catherine and her family at US Pizza and Tacos 4 Life is a common occurrence when they're out and about in town.

Do you have questions or want to get involved? Please feel free to reach out to our Children's Team