Children & Youth

The Oaklandon UU Church is dedicated to providing a safe, fun, stimulating, and enriching environment for children and youth in several different ways. During the regular school year: 
  • Nursery care is available for infants and toddlers during the Sunday service. The nursery will open at 10:15, so parents can get their youngsters settled in the nursery before the service starts if they would like.
  • Religious Education (R.E.) is provided for children K-7th grade in a fun, one-room schoolhouse approach. Activities include stories, crafts, and other activities focusing on UU principles, world religions, social justice, and caring for our earth and for each other.
  • On most Sundays, children and youth in kindergarten and up will participate in the first part of  worship before going to their classes.
  • Youth in 7th grade and up are invited to be mentors/leaders in the R.E. program. They may also enjoy participating in Sunday morning services.
  • Children and youth may participate in OWL (Our Whole Lives) classes that are held periodically by local UU congregations. In the fall of 2015, OWL classes will be offered to high school youth. For more information, check out the church newsletter.
  • Several intergenerational worship services are held each year. One of our favorites is the annual "Paper Bag Nativity" Christmas service.
Paper Bag Nativity Christmas service
Children, youth, and adults join together in the annual "Paper Bag Nativity" Christmas service.
During the summer months the R.E. program takes a break, but children and youth are welcome to join the worship service -- simple craft and other quiet table activities are available.
UU Resources for children, youth, and families

































































Meet our Religious Education Coordinator, Tammy Mills
Tammy Mills with her childrenTammy with her children
A message from Tammy--
I love working with the Religious Education team at Oaklandon UU! It is truly a gift to build upon such a strong foundation created by years of consistent and strong programming.

A bit about me-- I graduated, a long time ago, with an education degree from Ball State. Shortly after graduation I began the ordination process for the United Methodist Church. I served several Indiana churches and managed to get my Master of Divinity from Anderson University. During my 10 years in the United Methodist ministry I worked with my churches to develop exciting and enriching educational programming. I also directed many children and youth summer camps.

Personally, my partner and I have been together for 11 wonderful years. We have three awesome kids -- Grace, Maddie, and Wesley. Currently I am a Behavior Mentor at Harrison Hill Elementary in the Metropolitan School District of Lawrence Township. Prior to this position, I taught in different capacities for the last five years.

My passion for the church is to create a sacred space where children and adults can explore and grow in their spiritual journey and a sacred place where that growth and exploration is affirmed. I invite you to come check us out!

--Tammy
Below: R.E. kids illustrated the words to one of the hymns in our hymnal. We then projected the pictures while the congregation sang the hymn!