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Rooted in faith
Growing in love


CHILDREN'S MINISTRY

Children from birth to 5th Grade are an important part of the ministry at Ankeny First United Methodist Church. We offer a variety of special activities and programs for children and families to grow together in their faith, as well as to reach out and invite others to know, love, and serve Jesus Christ.

Each year, we provide special programs and events for children including Sunday School, KidZone, Vacation Bible School, Third Grade Bible Presentations and Fairs and other special events. More information is available on these events through the links below.

Our hope is that children and families grow together and experience Christ in a real way. 


Summer Scholarship Teachers

The Children’s Ministry Team is pleased to announce an exciting opportunity for our church's college and college-bound students. This summer, we invite those planning to attend college next fall to consider applying for a Summer Sunday School Teacher Scholarship.

We are looking for teachers to teach children ages 3 years through 5th grade at both Uptown and the Christian Life Center beginning June 2 through August 11. You may choose to teach the whole summer (9-11 Sundays between June 2-August 11, 2024) to receive a $500 scholarship. Or you may choose to teach half the summer (4-6 Sundays between June 2-August 11, 2024) to receive a $250 scholarship.

More details can be found HERE. To apply, fill out THIS APPLICATION.


There's always many children's opportunites happening at Ankeny First.
  • Little One's Open Gym

    Little One's Open Gym is an opportunity for at-home caregivers to find fellowship and fun at the CLC while little ones play casual games and burn off energy in the multipurpose space. Children of all ages are welcome but must be accompanied by an adult. There’s no cost for this activity and you do not need to pre-register.

    This program meets from 9:30-11:00am every Thursday. 

  • KidZone

    At KidZone, students ages 4 through 5th grade will have a blast learning more about God's love for them while exploring scripture, engaging in worship, responding through outreach projects, and interacting with other kids and adults! The games and crafts help reinforce the truths we are learning from the Bible. There's always lots of singing and dancing, and children are given opportunities to share their music in worship services throughout the year. Our team of energetic volunteers are eager to welcome you! Join them Uptown (Room 214) on Wednesday nights 6:00-7:00pm. This program is FREE, and registration is not required. We can't wait to see you at KidZone!

    Interested in volunteering at KidZone? CLICK HERE!

  • Sunday School

    We welcome all children (ages 3 years - 5th grade) to Sunday School where they will discover exciting Bible stories, activities, crafts, and games which challenge them to grow in the their faith so that they can proclaim the good news of God’s love and serve God and their neighbors.

    Join us at one of the following Ankeny First United Methodist Church locations:

    Uptown Campus – Children, ages three years - 5th grade, are invited to Sunday School during the 9:0am worship service. The kids go directly to Sunday School when they arrive. Classrooms are located on the lower level of the Uptown sanctuary. Children and parents are asked to sign in for Sunday School at the attendance computers near the Education office. A nursery is provided for infants and toddlers (under two years old) with trained childcare staff at all three Uptown worship services located in Room 117 near the sanctuary.

    Christian Life Center – Children, ages three years - 5th grade, are invited to attend the beginning of the 9:00am contemporary worship services with their parents/guardians. Children are dismissed to their classrooms following the Worship Time. Parents are asked to sign-in their kids for Sunday School at the attendance tables before the start of the worship services. The CLC also has a nursery, located near the building entry, where well-trained staff provide childcare during worship services.

    Faith Chapel - Sunday School is not currently offered at this location.

  • Vacation Bible School

    At VBS 2024, we will be diving into friendship with God! Join us for SCUBA June 10-14, 2024!

  • Child Safety Training

    Child Safety Training Required to Work with Children

    In order to work with the children of our congregation, you must complete our Child & Youth Safety requirements.

    Visit HERE to complete the requirements.

    If you have any questions, please call our office 515-964-4249.