Jesus said "Let the children come to me."  At Renton First United Methodist Church we encourage children's participation in worship, and provide a loving community and services committed to help children become responsible, caring, faithful people.

• Sunday School: Children's classes cover Bible stories and lessons on Christ's love and guidance. Classes are a lot of fun for kids and include crafts and activities. Third graders are given their own Bible to begin self-directed Bible study as well as teacher led discussions.
• Children's Time: Every worship service includes a time for children to come up and hear the gospel through stories, activities and language they can relate to.
• Bible Zone: During the worship service, after the children's worship time, children age four to six can go to the Bible Zone to hear stories and play while their parents enjoy the rest of the worship service.
• Angel Choir: Children, second-grade and older, are invited to join the Angel Choir which meets each Sunday following the children's time during the worship service. The children learn age-appropriate music and perform for the congregation several times during the year. In addition, the children showcase their talent with wonderful musical plays that are one of the highlights of the music year. Contact Sandy Stephens for information.
• Nursery: During worship and Sunday School, our nursery provides a safe, fun and nurturing environment for children, ages birth to four.
• Vacation Bible School (VBS): Kids, age preschool through 6th grade learn to follow Jesus and His disciples through fun, interactive stories and activities. VBS is held one week during the summer break.
• Costume Party: Kids have a ball at the annual costume party. There are games, stories and lots of fun surprises. Proceeds for the party go to UNICEF.
• Pied Piper Preschool: Programs are designed for 3, 4, and 5 year old children. We offer well organized, planned programs providing preschoolers with opportunities for active and quiet play, individual and group activities, and new and exciting experiences. Call the church office for information.

Young people are our future, and we are dedicated to providing them with the love and emotional support they will need to become tomorrow's leaders. We welcome their energy and ideas, and offer activities that provide moral support, faith development and fun, wholesome entertainment.

• Youth Sunday School Classes: Junior and Senior High Youth learn to apply the lessons of the Bible to their lives. Emphasis is on fellowship, and exploring ways to share Jesus' love and the gospel with friends. Classes meet 9:20 am on Sunday.  (September - May)
• United Methodist Youth: Youth groups gather weekly for support, fun and fellowship. The groups meet at 6:00 pm on Sunday.
• Youth Sunday: In addition to regular opportunities for youth participation in our services, youth plan and host at least one entire Sunday worship service each year. It's always a good time for everyone.
• Starlight Sound Dances: Enjoy music and meet youth from other churches. Monthly dances are held at churches throughout the Puget Sound region.
• Camps: There's nothing like getting out in nature to appreciate God's blessings. There are several fun camp programs designed to meet the interests of youth. Methodist camps in our area are: Indianola, Lazy F, Ocean Park, and Twinlow (near Spokane).
• Chrysalis: Chrysalis is a powerful retreat designed for youth who want to begin a new life with Christ. This retreat is sponsored by The Upper Room.
• Conference Youth Page: Resources for youth, youth workers and young adults from the Pacific Northwest Conference.

In our busy society, families need extra support. A strong faith life can help families build strong, loving relationship with God and with each other. Our church is a place for families to grow together.

• Family Camp: Each year the church families are invited to attend a weekend camp. This year's camp will be held at Indianola, near Kingston. No planning required, cabins and terrific dining are all part of the package. We're expecting to have a lot of fun beachcombing, reading, playing, relaxing and sharing good times and faith.
• Family Activities: Special activities are planned throughout the year for children, parents and the church family to enjoy together..
• Virtues Project: This parenting program, developed by the Church Council of Greater Seattle, strives to instill the best in moral values and action from a Christian perspective.
• Family Christmas Eve Service: The church offers a special family-oriented service on Christmas Eve. The service includes familiar carols and plenty of love and joy. The family service is held early so that parents can get their kids to bed before Santa comes.
• Children and Family Council: Church members are always looking for ideas and planning activities to help children and families grow together.
• Nursery Home Visitors: Church members visit new mothers and offer help and fellowship.