Toddlers at Mass

I would just like to add to your response on Toddlers at Mass. Not all churches have a nursery or cry room for toddlers. I have attended many a church that do not have this facility.

I think parents need to let toddlers know, who is boss and take charge of them. Talk to the kids and let them know ahead of time that it is Sunday and we are going to church. Explain what behavior is required at church and follow through with consequences if they do not behave appropriately. Remember to praise the toddlers after Mass if they have behaved well. Books, food and drink are not necessary for the toddlers for a short hour if we try to engage them in the singing and prayer. Firmly have toddlers sit on your lap until they are able to sit in the pew without fidget.

I did it with my toddlers who are now 9 and 6 and both children sing and participate at Mass with great enthusiasm and praise for our Lord.

It really can be done. A prayer in the car on the way to Mass helped us through this difficult time.