One important benefit of fiction is that it teaches empathy. We can put ourselves for a while into someone else’s story, and view life from a different perspective.
When I Go to Church, I Belong is one of those books that is excellent for building empathy, especially in kids who are able-bodied and neurotypical.
This picture book from IVP Kids shows a medley of children with special needs being loved in very practical ways by their local church congregations. A variety of differences, and a variety of ways of meeting needs, are depicted, demystifying situations that might otherwise seem “weird” or scary to a child who’s unfamiliar (and providing subtle insight into ways we can serve each other more effectively).
Children who have special needs may see themselves in the book and appreciate being “seen.”
The only thing I don’t love about it is that several the page spreads are clearly referencing children’s church and/or age-segregated Sunday School, which long-time readers will know we don’t do. But most Western Christians do, so I get it.
All in all, this is a sweet addition to our collection, and a good reminder to bear one another’s burdens and to look out for the interests of others.
Our church loves the kiddos. We have a nursery and children’s church, but they are optional (for parents who want them), and children are welcome in the service. Our pastor has even engaged with kids from the pulpit. He often asks questions and waits for someone to offer and answer. One day, this young boy, probably 8 yo, answered and nailed it. Pastor praised his answer right there from the pulpit. And as he was sitting next to me with his parents, I even patted him on the back and said “good job there.”