South Main Baptist Church

South Main and the Family Ministry observe the following policies to support the safety, security, and health of all members of our families. These policies apply to all Family Ministry programs, as well as Play Days. If you have any questions about any of these policies, please contact Dolores Rader.

Teachers

• At least two teachers are required in every room at all times when children are present.
• For infants and younger children, our teacher to child ratio is better than the State requirement for childcare.
• All of our teachers are required to attend our Child Protection Policy training and pass a background check.
• CPR certification is strongly recommended. At least one teacher in each room must be CPR-certified.
   

Security

• Parents or caregivers of children in the Nursery through 4th grade must use our ShelbyNEXT stations to check their children in and use their Guardian Reciept to check children out of classrooms or programs.
• When you drop your child off at South Main for the first time, please visit our Welcome Desk just past the Welcome Center to register your child or children.
• Indicate in each child's individual profile any allergies or medical information. This information is printed out on the child’s name label, so that it can be seen by all caregivers

Sickness

• As much as we love sharing with kids, illness is the exception. We ask that you please keep your child or children at home if they exhibit any of the following:
• Fever (temperature of 100°F or higher)
• Diarrhea
• Vomiting
• Conjunctivitis/"Pink eye"
• Contagious rash, lice, or other skin conditions
• Children must be free of all symptoms for at least 24 hours before joining us.
   

Frequently Asked Questions

I'm an expectant parent. Can I see the Nursery and ask questions before my baby is born?
Even as God is knitting your child together in the womb, the blessing and weight of parenthood is growing in your lives—and, as your church family, in our lives too. We want to support expectant parents with daily prayer throughout the pregnancy, and we will gladly arrange time for you to visit with Pastor Steve Wells and Family Minister Dolores Rader to share not only what is in store for you and your new family at South Main, but also to answer questions and let you get a look at the Nursery. When your baby is born, we place a rose on the organ console during worship and announce the birth of the newest member of the South Main family to the congregation. Of course, your Sunday School Community will also want to help out with food, prayers, and moral support. If you have a new bundle of joy on the way, please contact Dolores to let her know!
 

When can I bring my baby to the nursery for the first time?
Most parents wait until after the first round of shots before bringing their child in to the nursery.
 

How old should my baby be when we have our Family Dedication?
Most Dedications happen when the baby is three to nine months old, but we have had Family Dedications with children who are old enough to walk. Whatever is best for your family is what is best. Please contact Dolores to discuss your plans and confirm available dates.
 

Is there a place for me to nurse my child?
We have a beautiful, private room for nursing mothers with big comfy chairs, music, boppies, plenty of water, and magazines for that home-away-from-home feel. The Mother’s Room is located next to the Nursery, with a “front” door located in the Gathering Area at the end of the MainKids hall, and a second door connecting directly to the Nursery 1 classroom.
 

What should I bring when I drop my child off?
For infants and toddlers, a bag with diapers, extra clothes, bottles, and food are all you need to bring. Each classroom has a small refrigerator to store milk. And please, please, LABEL all bags and bottles.
 

What if my child needs me?
If you are a nursing mom and your baby is hungry, we will contact you on the cell phone number you have provided. We will also contact you on your cell phone if your child is not feeling well, or is inconsolably upset. Please keep your phone on vibrate during Sunday School and worship. If we are unsuccessful in reaching you by phone, we will come find you.
 

How do I know when my child will move up to the next class?
Promotions in non-graded classrooms (infants and toddlers) are based on two factors. The first is marked by certain developmental milestones such as crawling, walking, napping, and eating. Of course, you will have the best insight into when your child has a reached a point where they are developmentally ready to promote. Please let the Nursery teachers know, or contact Dolores, when you believe your child is ready. The second consideration is the number of children in each room. It is vitally important to us that we know your child and all the children in our Nursery and do what is best for each of them and all of them. When a decision to promote has been made, you will be contacted before the first day of attendance.