Q1. If a child is being very disruptive in Sunday School / Junior Church, can we physically restrain them?
No, unless the child is at risk or harming themselves or others. If restraint is necessary, it should be applied with minimal force, and the incident should be reported to the Sunday School / Junior Church lead.
Q2. Can we use physical restraint if we have the parents’ consent?
No – other than as described above.
Q3. So, is there anything we can do to help the smooth running of the class?
You should establish clear rules and expectations for children’s behaviour during an activity. Good behaviour should be encouraged and rewarded as appropriate. Any disruptions should be handled calmly. If a child is repeatedly disruptive then speak with the Sunday school lead or safeguarding lead for advice. See also our guidance on Ministering to Children with Special Needs.
Q4. Do we need to follow the same helper – child ratios when parents or other accompanying adults are present?
No, but it is essential that parents and other accompanying adults are informed that they are responsible for their child’s safety and that they should keep them in sight at all times.
Q5. Do the same adult helper – children ratios apply when activities take place outside, e.g. in a local park?
In general, more helpers are needed when activities take place outside.
Q6. Are parents / carers allowed to take photos when watching children / youths taking part in church activities?
Yes but, if the photos include other people’s children, they should not share the photos with others or post them on social media.
Q7. From what age can children come to a church activity without being brought and collected by an adult?
From the age of 12, but parents should be made aware that they are still responsible for their child’s safety.
Q8. Can children / youths bring phones or iPads (or similar tablets) into church?
Yes, but they should have age-appropriate parental controls enabled to prevent the users accessing inappropriate content.