Special Needs Ministry
First-Time Guests
Please complete our Special Needs Ministry Welcome Form so we can know how to best minister to your child and your family. This helps us prepare our team of leaders for when your child attends!
Special Needs Welcome FormIf you would like to plan a visit with us on a Sunday, please email specialneeds@thegladechurch.org and we would love to meet your family, hear about your needs, and prepare for your child to have the best experience!
Respite Rooms
Throughout The Glade Church facility (and at events), you will find Respite Rooms. These are spaces for families with special needs to step away and have a quiet spot. You are always welcome to one of our Respite Rooms if your child has sensory overload, emotional challenges, or needs to self-regulate without drawing attention or feeling restricted.
The Nook (near Apostolos, during Sunday Worship Gatherings)
The Nook is adjacent to the Apostolos Coffee Shop in the foyer outside the Worship Center. This space is reserved for families with special needs during the 9:15 or 10:45 Worship Gatherings. This room has a live feed of the worship service and a basket near the bookshelf with coloring books and sensory toys you are welcome to borrow.
Sensory Room (near Children's Ministry)
The Sensory Room is at the top of the stairs when entering Children's Ministry from the Kids Check-In area. The lighting is low, there's a trampoline, and a few seating options. This spot is always available during Children's programming.
Room 151 (near Middle School Ministry)
This classroom is a fun spot that's used for the Special Needs class on Sunday mornings and is also available as a Respite Room during Middle School programming.
Weekly Schedule
Kids are welcome to join an age-level classroom in Preschool or Children's Ministry. We can discuss your child's needs to determine the best classroom fit. We have leaders who have a heart for all kids, and several who have specific vocational training for leading children with differing learning styles or disabilities.
At 9:15, we also have a class specifically for special needs students. This class includes activities and Bible teaching geared for kids with various learning needs, led by leaders who are experienced with special needs children. They meet in the Respite Room near "The District" where Middle School ministry takes place. We hope to engage your child in a healthy, safe, and sanctifying environment that fosters their love of Jesus.
Before attending class, please complete the welcome form so we can prepare for your child's needs upon arrival.
Special Needs Welcome FormWe offer Kids programming during this Worship Gathering, but there is no Student ministry programming during the 10:45 Worship Gathering.
Seasonally we offer Kids and Student programming on Wednesday evenings. Special Needs students have buddies in the Kids and Student Ministry worship services.
Family Worship Sundays
Whenever we have "Family Worship Sunday," that means there will be no age-level programming on Sunday morning and everyone is together in the Worship Gathering. These are a time when there is naturally more energy (and wiggling) in the room because we have all ages coming together. Families with special needs are always welcome to worship on a Family Worship Sunday, and although there won't be age-level classrooms or groups, the Respite Rooms are open and available for you!