Ellen Paulson serves as our Director of Children's Ministries, responsible for the Christian education for our younger children, newborn through 5th grade. She came to Good Shepherd as a new member in 1993 and became our Director in 1998. "My passion is teaching children about the God who created them and loves them so very much!" Ellen enjoys her family life with her husband, a fireman, and two children. Ellen's interests include, music, drama, puppetry, scrapbooking, cross stitching, crocheting and writing. "I have never been happier than I am right now, using the gifts that God has given, for His glory in this ministry."

Our Children's Ministry provides kids with lots of opportunities to learn more about God in a fun, supportive environment. We offer Sunday morning and evening programming, Wednesday evening kids' Bible Study, Mission projects, a Retreat, Lock-in, Choir, Vacation Bible School and more.


WHAT'S NEXT FOR CHILDREN'S MINISTRY:

   Because children in the 4th and 5th grade are at a unique age, with different needs, it is our desire to offer age-appropriate activities for them, in preparation for their transition to the Middle School 6:8 youth group.

GRAPPLE utilizes a large group/small group format and will encourage 4th & 5th graders to grapple with faith and life issues that are relevant to their age.


SonShine Beach

(Pre-K through 5th Grade) ‚"Where kids learn to shine for the Son." Sundays 9:30, 11:00 AM That's our motto‚ SonShine Beach is a place where kids can be kids and learn about God. Kids engage in the same kind of worship experiences that adults do in their services. We use a variety of creative elements to teach kids practical life lessons through Bible character stories, dramas, singing, games, crafts, and yummy snacks.


FW Friends

(1st & 2nd Grade) FW Friends meets Wednesday nights, 6:15 p.m. to 7:45 p.m., offering children in 1st and 2nd grade a chance to grow in their relationship with God, as well as with their peers. This midweek program is on summer break, but will resume on Wednesday nights, starting September 13th. Pre-registration begins August 20th. Forms are available in the Church office. For more information, contact Ellen Paulson at 310-542-1649 or ellenp@lcgs.net


Breakout

(3rd through 5th Grade) Wednesdays 6:15 PM "Breakout" meets on Wednesday evenings from 6:15 p.m. to 7:45 p.m. for 3rd through 5th grade students. This small group Bible study program takes the kids through a three year study of life application topics such as "Knowing Christ"; "Growing in Christ"; "Serving Christ"; and "Sharing Christ". It's not all study though. They also enjoy lots of fun time together just hanging out, playing Dodge Ball and working on Mission projects throughout the year. BreakOut kids are invited to enjoy a "lock-in" in February and a 4th and 5th grade retreat in April. Class begins September 13th, but students can join us anytime and are encouraged to bring friends. Pre-registration begins August 20th. Forms are available in the Church office. For more information, contact Ellen Paulson at 310-542-1649 or ellenp@lcgs.net


Nursery Info

A cry room in the Worship Center provides sound-proof privacy with full view and audio of the services. During all worship services quality childcare is available for kids up to age three in the Little Lambs Nursery. Children are cared for in a loving, nurturing environment with trained caregivers. Our nursery is located in the building across from the Worship Center.


Other Opportunities

We host events throughout the year such as: Vacation Bible School, Children's Christmas Program, 4th and 5th grade annual retreat, lock-ins, Christmas caroling, Communion Instruction, Kids' Choir, etc. For more information contact Ellen Paulson, Director of Children's Ministries.


Good Shepherd Preschool

Mon-Fri 9:00-11:45 AM & 12:45-3:30pm (no preschool Monday or Friday afternoons) Good Shepherd Preschool has been a part of this community for over 30 years! We are a developmental preschool dedicated to nurturing each child's unique qualities, strengths, and interests. Our purpose is to provide a variety of opportunities and experiences which will enable your child to grow physically, emotionally, socially, intellectually, and spiritually! Children attend Chapel weekly. We have two-, three-, or five-day programs. Children must be 2 to 5-years-old and potty-trained. Contact our director, Lisa Such for more information. Visit the Preschool Page