Rev. Brian at Messy Church, Good Shepherd, Salinas

Children

& Families

At our church, we believe every child is a precious gift, and strong families are the foundation of vibrant faith communities. Our Children & Families ministry creates a safe, joyful, and spiritually enriching environment where kids of all ages can grow in their relationship with God while building meaningful friendships. Whether you're looking for loving care for your little ones, engaging Bible-based learning, or exciting adventures that develop character and leadership, we have dedicated spaces designed just for them.

Almighty God, heavenly Father, you have blessed us with the joy and care of children: Give us calm strength and patient wisdom as we bring them up, that we may teach them to love whatever is just and true and good, following the example of our Savior Jesus Christ. Amen.

Almighty God, heavenly Father, you have blessed us with the joy and care of children: Give us calm strength and patient wisdom as we bring them up, that we may teach them to love whatever is just and true and good, following the example of our Savior Jesus Christ. Amen. —

Kid in Play Kitchen, Good Shepherd, Salinas

Nursery

Our Nursery provides a safe, loving, and nurturing environment where your little ones (ages 1–3) can feel right at home while you worship peacefully during our 10:00 a.m. Sunday service.

Caring, background-checked staff and volunteers offer attentive care in a bright, clean, and age-appropriate space filled with soft toys, books, music, and gentle play. We introduce even the youngest hearts to God’s love through simple songs, Bible stories, and comforting routines. Whether your child is taking their first steps or exploring new independence, our nursery team ensures they are well cared for—physically, emotionally, and spiritually—so your whole family can fully participate in worship.

Parents consistently tell us how welcomed and at ease they feel knowing their toddlers are in caring hands. No registration is required—just come as you are. We can’t wait to welcome your little one into our church family!

Rev. Brian, Miss Traci, and kids at Good Shepherd, Salinas

Sunday

School

Our Sunday School offers engaging, age-appropriate Christian education for children ages 4–12, led with joy and passion by our dedicated Youth Minister, Miss Traci.

From September through May, children gather most Sundays during the 10:00 AM worship service for dynamic Bible lessons, interactive stories, creative activities, worship songs, and meaningful discussions that help them grow in faith and character. Miss Traci creates a welcoming classroom environment where kids feel seen, valued, and excited to learn about God’s Word and how it applies to their everyday lives.

Whether your child is just beginning to explore the Bible or is ready for deeper conversations, our Sunday School builds a strong spiritual foundation while fostering friendships that last. It’s the perfect place for children to ask questions, build confidence, and discover the joy of following Jesus.

We pause for summer and resume in September—new faces are always welcome!

Kids on Swings at Good Shepherd, Salinas

Our Preschool program offers a nurturing, Christ-centered early learning experience for children ages 2 through 5 years (2.0–5.11). Designed for little learners, our preschool combines joyful play, hands-on activities, early academics, and foundational Bible teaching in a safe, loving environment that prepares children for kindergarten and beyond—while planting seeds of faith that will last a lifetime.

Caring teachers focus on social-emotional growth, creativity, literacy, and spiritual formation, all within a warm community where every child is known and cherished. Whether you’re looking for weekday preschool or additional program details, explore our full Preschool Menu for curriculum highlights, schedules, enrollment information, and campus-specific offerings.

Preschool