Kids
What can we expect if it is our first time visiting CYRE?
First time visitors should arrive 10-15 minutes before the service begins and come by the RE Office. A staff member or assigned volunteer will show you and your children the location of their rooms and introduce you to their teachers. If one of your children is in a class that begins on the playground, you will be shown the location of that playground. This is not a good time for a prolonged conversation with RE staff but short conversations are usually possible. Visitors should register after three visits so they can get on our e-mail list for program communication. Click here for registration forms.
How do I enroll my child in CYRE?
We ask that after three visits, parents register their children so that we can better communicate with you. There is no fee, nor do you have to be a member of the congregation.
How do I get more information about the Open Door School?
Click here for more information.
What will the children learn in the CYRE Program?
Click here for more information
What is a "normal" day in the classroom like?
Click here for more information
Can I observe an RE class?
Parents are always welcome to observe although they may not join the circle in our SpiritPlay classes.
Where can I find the list of the 7 UU principles that my kids hear in class?
Click here for more information
What do you teach the children about God?
We expose our children and youth to the various concepts of God held by the world’s major religions. We teach that there are many meanings for the word “God,” and that Unitarian Universalists do not adhere to a single definition. We also share that some members of our church do not believe in any of these concepts of God, and that each person must decide upon his or her own definition. See Message from CYRE Director
What do you teach the children about Unitarian Universalism?
We teach our young people that Unitarian Universalism offers a way of living the best lives they possibly can. They can do this through exploration, responsible choosing, global citizenship and a sense of our spiritual connection with all that exists. We believe in acting on these values in daily living, and our youth come to understand the principles of our faith and to see the relevance of these principles in their own lives. See the CYRE section. You can go to the Unitarian Universalist Association web site to learn more about our beliefs.
What are class times?
We offer two 1.25 hours sessions of RE classes: 9:15am-10:30am and 11:15am – 12:30pm.
What time should we bring our children to RE?
Please arrive 10 -15 minutes before class time. This should give you time to get to the classroom or playground, greet the teachers, say good bye and still get to the service on time.
What time do we need to pick up our children?
Our classes end at 10:30am and 12:30pm. Children not picked within 10 or 15 minutes of these times will be taken to the RE office. Some classes end on the playground and some in the classroom.
Why should I read the “Where Do the Children Go?” sign posted on the tripod outside the RE wing doors each Sunday?
This sign informs all parents exactly where their child will be that morning. There are occasional changes in room locations due to special projects, class trips off-site, intergenerational services, etc.
What can you tell me about the teachers and youth advisors?
All of our teachers and youth advisors are volunteers. They must be members of the congregation and all are subject to reference and background checks. All teachers receive training at the annual August Teacher Orientation, with advisors receiving special training. Most teachers are parents but we strongly encourage non-parents to volunteer in this capacity, as well.
Do you have any requirements for people to participate in CYRE programs?
We invite everyone to participate in all our programs. You need not be a member of our congregation to participate. We welcome visitors in our classrooms and at all events. However, we ask that all children and youth who participate in any part of the program be registered by their third visit. Registration provides staff with necessary contact and medical information in case of an emergency, ensures that a family receives periodic updates about the program and allows us to have enough supplies for all children or youth who might attend an event. You can get forms here or from RE staff. Parents are expected to assist in their children’s classes at least once a semester. Since our program is dependent on volunteers for everything from teachers to event planners to outreach project coordinators, all parents are also encouraged to volunteer at least a couple of times beyond their assigned role as parent assistant.
Is there a registration process?
Yes, we ask all children and youth to be registered by their third visit. Registration provides staff with necessary contact and medical information in case of an emergency, ensures that a family receives periodic updates about the program and allows us to have enough supplies for all children or youth who might attend an event.
How can I volunteer in the CYRE program?
Watch for opportunities in Voices or in emails sent out by RE staff and then contact the RE office. Or contact RE staff at any time. The registration form includes a place to indicate your interests. You will be called at some point as those particular needs arise.
Is there a summer RE program?
Yes. Click here for more information
How old does my child have to be to participate in the Our Whole Lives (OWL) sexuality program?
We currently offer three levels of the program: we offer our Jr. High class to our 8th graders every year; we alternate our 5th-6th class with our 10th-12th class. We hope to soon offer an adult class and a class for our kindergartners & 1st graders. All facilitators must be trained in a weekend-long UU OWL training.