Promiseland News
Promiseland Chatter May 2013
Wednesday, May 8th, 2013
Halleluiah! We have almost made it through the school year once again. The kids in Promiseland (PL) are finishing up in their classes learning to be more like Jesus so they can make a difference in the world. We have celebrated as five kids made commitments to follow Christ for the first time and for the boldness all the kids are exhibiting as they pray together in class each Sunday.
Promiseland Chatter April 2013
Wednesday, April 3rd, 2013
Happy Spring to all of you!! Some are blaming me for our extended “winter like weather” because of the snowmen and snowflakes still up in Promiseland. I really do like snow but I guess it is time for some flowers and warm weather. The snowmen are in hibernation along with their snowflakes so don’t blame me if it snows again!
On a more serious note, Sunday April 14, the Prayer Team is asking adults and kids to share a prayer of their own and how God has answered that prayer. They will use cardboard to write them on. If you have been in the service when we have done Cardboard Testimonies, this will be the same. Your kids have been praying together in their rooms each Sunday and I personally have been part of some awesome prayer time with the kids. It would be great if you would encourage your kids to participate in this sharing time. Please contact Diane Kelley if you are interested in this opportunity.
What ages of children are involved in the Promiseland Children's Ministry?
The Children's Ministry includes kids from 2 years old through 5th grade. The Nursery Ministry is intended for children under 2 years old and the Youth Ministry serves students from 6th grade through high school.
How is the Children's Ministry structured?
We have two identical teaching times. One at 9 a.m. and the other at 10:45 a.m. Same curriculum, different teachers. Each teaching time begins with hallway worship for all classes combined.

What happens during Promiseland?
During Promiseland, children learn about the Christian faith through Willow Creek's Promiseland curriculum. Promiseland is a dynamic, Biblical and Christ-centered ministry designed to meet kids where they are in their spiritual journeys and to lead them into a relationship with Jesus Christ that is authentic and lasting. All lessons are designed for children and relevant to their daily lives. Children at Riverside Covenant Church learn together in a safe and positive atmosphere that fosters fun, fellowship, and faith.
What is available during Promiseland for my children age 2 years old?
The Promiseland journey begins in the 2 year old class where the children hear a short Bible story brought to life through a flannel board presentation. During the presentation they are encouraged to interact with the characters of the story. This is followed by an activity that relates to and reinforces what they have just heard.

What is available during Promiseland for my children ages 3-5 years old?
Riverside teachers use concepts, stories, vocabulary, and music-all carefully chosen to be concrete and easy for preschoolers to understand. Promiseland consists of response-oriented teaching, singing, visuals, motions and more to actively engage preschoolers each week and build the spiritual foundation they need to enter into a relationship with Jesus. From the Creation Story to the tale of Paul and Silas in prison, kids learn more about God's amazing story.
What is available during Promiseland for my children ages Kindergarten to 3rd grade?
Riverside teachers help kids discover core Bible truths and how they apply them to their lives. Kids learn Bible stories through relevant and creative presentations and are then helped to discover some of the things that make them a unique creation made by God. Kids participate in activities designed to reinforce lessons, interact with adult leaders, and discuss life application.

What is available during Promiseland for my children ages 4th and 5th grade?
Riverside teachers guide kids to be transformed by GRACE, GROWTH, GROUP, GIFTS, AND GOOD STEWARDSHIP or as we simply call them, "The 5 Gs." These lessons help students understand what the Bible has to do with them and aid them in becoming influencers of their peers. Lessons include, "The Bible is the Final Authority," "Christianity vs. Other Religions," and "Lost People Matter to God and Me."
What precautions do you take to ensure that my children are safe and secure?
When children are checked into Promiseland they are given an identification number and parents are given a matching identification tag. Parents must present their identification tag when checking their child out. If there is an issue with your child during the worship service, the child's identification number will be displayed on the screen on the front left wall of the sanctuary so that you can come and check on your child.
In addition, all Children's Ministry volunteers must complete an application and criminal background screening before serving in Promiseland.
You are always free to visit any of our classrooms at any time to see how we are doing.

