Children & Youth

On Sunday mornings from September through June, our Religious Exploration program offers engaging, kid-centered enrichment for children and youth, from nursery through high school, that is woven into our worship life together. We emphasize a multicultural, inclusive, and multifaith learning approach while creating an environment where each child feels a sense of belonging and value.

Families begin the worship service together—kids (and grown-ups!) are welcome in the Sanctuary, which features books, fidget toys and sensory tools, comfy kid-height seating, and often project connected to the worship service.

Most Sundays, after the Time for All Ages story and our community candle lighting ritual, children move to age-based classes in the Education Building for games, songs, and activities that explore the themes, ideas, and messages of our faith and values. Younger children, or anyone who prefers to stay with their grown-ups in the Sanctuary, are welcome to remain with their families.

Sign up for our weekly RE newsletter to stay updated on all activities, including family social events, special OWL programs for sexuality education, and multigenerational worship services. These services bring the whole community together in the Sanctuary to celebrate sacred moments in the UU liturgical year, including Earth Day, Flower Communion, Water Communion, Day of the Dead, and more.

Fill out our general registration form or click on an event to complete its associated form. If you have questions or would like more information, please reach out to Amanda Uluhan, Director of Education, using the contact information at the bottom of this page.

For a detailed description of the program, please review the Parent Handbook. 

News from the RE Department

Event Calendar

Special Events

Little Uu’s (Ages 0-5) 

Programming for our youngest community members focuses on fostering a sense of connection and safety. We encourage curiosity, play, and wonder while introducing the beloved stories, songs, and rituals of the Unitarian Universalist faith. Our nursery is open before services.

Discovery Year (Grades K-2) 

Programming for our lower elementary kids includes themes of justice, equity, compassion, and mindfulness. Our small group learning environments includes interactive stories, songs, discussion circles, arts and crafts, and service projects from diverse and wide-ranging sources.

Stepping Stones (Grades 3-5) 

Programming for our upper Elementary kids focuses on deepening their understanding of UU principles, fostering personal growth, and encouraging social responsibility. we build on our foundations of Unitarian Universalist values with rich and creative learning environments. We focus on developing last friendships, articulating our values, and building community through developmentally appropriate small group experiences. 

YES-UU Middle School youth group (Grades 6-8)

Programming for middle school youth ages 12-14 includes engaging youth in discussions on ethics, justice, and spirituality, and providing opportunities for leadership and community service. A key component is the Coming-of-Age program, where teens explore their beliefs, participate in mentorship, and create personal faith statements.

YRUU High School Youth (Grades 9-12)

Programming for high school aged teens includes a weekly evening group for high school age community members. We have casual open discussions, art and education, opportunities for leadership and community service, and lots of snacks.

Many of our programs and events have no cost; this is made possible due to the generous support of pledging friends and members of the congregation. As you become a part of the East Shore UU community, consider offering, as you’re able, in-kind donations or becoming a pledging friend or member.

Families are encouraged to support their child’s faith development by volunteering, participating in activities, and engaging with our community. Together, we create a welcoming, cooperative space where children and youth explore Unitarian Universalist values and practice them in everyday life.

Many of our programs and events have no cost; this is made possible due to the generous support of pledging friends and members of the congregation. As you become a part of the East Shore UU community, consider offering, as you’re able, in-kind donations or becoming a pledging friend or member.

From working with children, to hosting social events for families, everyone can find a way to contribute to the growing community of kids and families at East Shore. Volunteers are trained through the Safe Congregations policies of the church. Our onboarding process includes a screening process, a training component, and a code of ethics adult volunteers and staff members.

Training is typically held at the beginning of year, and on a one-on-one basis as needed. We make sure everyone has the opportunity to be trained before engaging with the youth programs at East Shore. Please complete this form and our staff will be in touch with more details.

For a detailed description of our children and youth safety guidelines, please review the Children and Youth Safety Guidelines.