Children’s Ministry

A Place for Kids to Learn, Grow, and Belong

At Padre Island Baptist Church, children from infants through 6th grade experience safe, age-appropriate environments where they learn about Jesus in creative, engaging, and meaningful ways.

We would love to welcome your family and invite your children to be part of Kid’s Island.

Pursuing Christ Together

Pursuing Christ Together

People at a service counter, including a woman in a light-colored shirt speaking to staff, surrounded by children, with colorful sea creature wall art in the background.

What Is Kid’s Island?

Kid’s Island is our Children’s Ministry designed to help kids:

  • Learn who Jesus is

  • Build friendships

  • Feel safe, loved, and valued

  • Grow in their faith at their own level

Our volunteers are passionate about teaching kids God’s Word in ways they can understand and enjoy.

We Know Little Ones Have Big Feelings

We love kidnoise, wiggles, and all.

For moms who need a quiet place to nurse or parents whose little one may need a moment to reset, we have a comfortable nursing room available with cozy seating and space to take a breath.

We also have a church library available with resources for families and all ages.

Children sitting on a white paper surface drawing with colored markers and pencils, with various art supplies scattered around.

WHAT TO EXPECT

Your First Visit

We offer childcare and children’s ministry during Sunday services:

  • 9:30 AM Service: Birth through 5 years

  • 11:00 AM Service: Birth through 5th grade

Here’s what to expect when visiting Kid Island for the first time:

  1. Head to the Children’s Area

  2. Stop at the front desk, where a friendly volunteer will greet your family

  3. We’ll check your child into our system

  4. One of our volunteers will walk your child to their age-appropriate room

We’re here to help every step of the way.

Safety & Security

Your child’s safety and well-being are a priority at Island Church. Every volunteer serving in Children’s Ministry completes a screening process, including background checks and ministry training, before serving with children.

We are committed to creating a safe, caring, and welcoming environment where children can learn about Jesus and families can feel confident and comfortable.

A group of children and a woman participating in a communal activity indoors, with some children raising their hands and the woman guiding them.

First-Time Check-In Information

MEET OUR DIRECTOR

Marie Abear
Children’s Ministry Director

Hi, my name is Marie Abear. I am a wife and a mother of three beautiful children. I am honored and humbled that God chose me to serve in Children’s Ministry and to share the truth and the love of Jesus with our children here on the Island and beyond. In my eyes, there is no better way to spend my extra time than helping raise warriors for Jesus.

I have been an Islander since 2015 and am blessed to be a part of ministry here at PIBC. I look forward to seeing God move among our children and our church. I hope to see you there!

PIBC Staff with long hair smiling outdoors, wearing a green floral dress with puffed sleeves.

Parent FAQs

Our Children’s Ministry serves infants through 6th grade. Children are placed in age-appropriate rooms so lessons and activities fit their stage of development.

What ages is Children’s Ministry for?


Is Children’s Ministry safe?

Yes. Your child’s safety is very important to us. All children are checked in through our secure system, and every Children’s Ministry volunteer completes background checks and training before serving. We strive to create a safe, welcoming environment where children can learn, grow, and feel cared for.


How does check-in and pick-up work?

When you check your child in, you and your child receive matching name tags unique to your family and visit. After service, you’ll present your matching tag to pick up your child. This ensures children are released only to approved adults.


What information do you collect at check-in?

On your first visit, we’ll ask for:

  • Parent/guardian name(s)

  • Child’s name and birthdate

  • Home address and phone number

  • Any allergies or special instructions

We respect your privacy and do not share this information.


What if my child has allergies or special needs?

Please let us know during check-in. Our volunteers want to partner with you to make sure your child is safe and cared for.


What if my child needs me during the service?

If your child needs you, a volunteer will contact you or come find you during the service.


What should my child wear or bring?

Kids should wear whatever is comfortable. If your child has a Bible, they’re welcome to bring it—but it’s not required.


Can parents stay nearby?

Yes. Parents are welcome to use the overflow room in the Fellowship Hall to watch the service while staying close to their child.


Who can I contact with questions?

If you have any questions about Children’s Ministry, we’re happy to help.

mariea@theislandchurch.com