Welcome

We are incredibly excited about having you here with us, where we provide ministry for children with disabilities and their families. We love you, and it is our prayer that you and your children feel welcomed and relaxed about worshiping with us here at DVBC. Just as God showed His great love and compassion, we want to follow our Lord's example in reaching out to everyone.

Health and Safety

To ensure the safety and wellbeing of each child, please fill out the registration form and return it to a member of our staff so we can accommodate for any food allergies, medical needs, or special requirements so that your child's needs are taken care of to the best of our ability. If you did not receive a form in your welcome packet which was given to your child, please see a member of our staff.

Our Mission

We believe that no vessel is too small or too damaged to bring honor and glory to our Lord! We will foster every need and help each vessel be filled with the love and knowledge of God, so each child can participate and serve in the house of the Lord despite any obstacle. Jesus said, Let the children come (Matthew 19:14), and that is exactly what we intend to do!

About Special Needs

* Our building meets the Americans with Disabilities (ADA) Act, requiring handicapped parking, ramps, doorways, and restrooms.

* Trained staff and volunteers will be available in every area of DVBC ministry.

* If needed, the designated parking is available near the front entrance to the building.

*Sensory room available

Goal

* To engage with children having special needs on their level to communicate God's love and grace and see those children being led to Christ.

* To provide support systems and encouragement for families with special needs children, allowing them to participate in Bible study classes and church activities.

* To provide training for volunteers to assist in all facets of the program.

* To support foster families with special needs children in their homes (see the Called to Care tab for more information regarding foster care support).

Sunday Morning and Wednesday Evening

Sunday School starts at 9:50; we have a class for every age group and trained Sunday school teachers and assistants that are excited and willing to have your child participate in this Bible study hour.

Following Sunday School, your child will be hand-delivered by the Sunday School teacher to the Chapel where Children's Church will take place for ages four years-5th grade.

If the child with special needs is older than 5th grade, but the parent feels they would learn better in a Children's Church format, do not hesitate to speak with Jessi Willingham, the Children's Director. We have a spot for your child.

Special needs classroom can be made available on Sunday mornings for children who cannot sit in a typical classroom setting starting at 9:50 am in the Chapel area. Activities may include music, story, playtime, and snacks. Check-in must be completed a week ahead of time, along with a guardian/child interview to prepare for this class.

Inclusion (with a buddy) is available by arrangement for Sunday School, Children's Church, and Wednesday night programs.

Dry Valley Kid's Wednesday night activities are offered 6:00-7:00 pm in conjunction with the adult service in the sanctuary. We also have a meal for everyone staying for services starting at 5:00 pm.

Parent Support Group

The Parent Support Group for foster families and those with special needs children meet at various times throughout the year for instruction, encouragement, and fellowship. (See the WOM tab for more information regarding the support group).

Sensory Room

* Provides children with personalized sensory input to help them calm and focus themselves on being better prepared to interact with others.

* Place to reduce tension and agitation while promoting individualized learning.

* Specifically designed and utilized for soothing sensory stimulation.

* Promotes relaxation and creates positive change.

*This multisensory room benefits individuals with varying diagnoses.

* Your child's safety is a huge priority; therefore, the sensory room is under video surveillance 24/7.

*If you are in the sanctuary with your child and you need access to the sensory room, please speak with someone on the security team (someone from our team will always be in the vestibule), and they will be more than happy to let you in.

More Information

Jessi Willingham COTA/L

Children's Ministry Director