b'How to welcomeSeven Ways Your Church Can Love children withChildren With Special Needs*special needs 1 Be sure the parking, entryways, aisles and to your club seating of the church accommodate wheelchairs.2 Greet families and simply ask if there is anything you Awana is for every child. By adapting yourmight do to assist them.ministry to include children with special needs,3 Have a meal program for your church can be a welcoming space forfamilies that have children families who feel left out of Christian community.with special needs.4 Assign a special needs assistant volunteer to Studies have shown that children with chronic conditions foundafford children with regular attendance at religious services was generally associatedspecial needs the with improved mental and emotional health, higher self-esteemopportunity to enjoy the and overall well-being. Families of special-needs children alsomainstream classroomsbenefitted, showing increased social support, as well as increasedor services.mental and physical health.5 Offer a family worship For many churches, it comes down to confidence; leaders worrysetting outside of thethey dont have the knowledge or volunteer support to helpmain auditorium.children with special needs. The result is often turning away children and families who are hungry for the gospel.6 Make available an individual class designed Fortunately, its not difficult to serve all the kids in your club. Thefor children with special Awana Special Needs Guide (on page 77) provides helpful tipsneeds during at least one and best practices for overcoming barriers that might stand inservice per week.your way. Start smalland remember: God always providesfor His children. 7 Hold a Parents Night Out to give parents a much-needed break.*originally by Rachel Wojo73'