Flip Flops (babies to preschool)

Flip Flops is the ministry for children from babies to preschool.  If you need Family Ministry services for another age group, return to the main page and click on Pipeline (K -6) or Frontside (middle school and high school)

All Family Ministry Staff are dedicated, experienced volunteers who have completed training and an application process that includes a background check.

Wellness Policy

To support a healthy environment for all our families, Sandals has a wellness policy in place.  All children must be symptom free for at least 24 hours prior to attending Flip Flops. None of the following may be present:

• Fever of 100°F
• Vomiting and/or diarrhea
• Cold or flu
• Any symptom of usual childhood diseases:
• Scarlett Fever / German measles / Mumps / Chicken Pox
• Whooping Cough / Croup and/or thick greenish nasal discharge
• Rash with fever; any skin infection, boils, ringworm, impetigo
• Throat or ear infection
• Pink eye or other eye infection

Pagers

We offer pagers for our first time guests so that parents can be contacted in the sanctuary if a child requires attention (is sick, needs nursing, etc.) Please keep the pager in your pocket so that you can be sure to receive the page.

• Request a pager from the classroom where you leave your child.
• Each pager has a number on the back.
• Write your pager number on the check-in sheet
• Return your pager when you pick up your child.

Registration / Check-In

First Time visitors have a separate registration table.

• Arrive 15 minutes before the start of service
• Complete registration form with basic contact information
• Note any special needs, allergies, or medical conditions
• List infant feeding instructions
• Give permission for your child to receive a snack

For your convenience, registration forms may be downloaded here, filled out in advance and brought to registration before service.  Forms are also available at the registration table.

Registration is one time only.  With each subsequent visit parents only need go to check-in.  At check-in parents will be issued identification stickers for each child to wear: one for the classroom sign-in sheet, one for diaper bag, and a claim check to show when picking child up.  (Photo ID may also be required)

What to Bring / What to Expect

All items checked in with your child must be labeled with their name. Please do not bring toys or personal items from home other than those listed below:

Nursery (babies – toddlers)

• Diapers    
• Bottle and formula (if needed)
• Pacifier or other item your child needs for comfort
• Complete change of clothes

This care time encourages play and interaction with caring adults.
Nursery snacks are Puffs (6-12 months) Cheerios (12-24 months)

Young Twos or Big Twos

• Diapers    
• Sippy cups, etc.
• Complete change of clothes

This class offers time to play inside, simple Bible story, simple craft, a snack (Goldfish) and a supervised restroom trip or diaper change.

Pre-School Class (3-5 years)

This class offers time to play inside, Empowering Kids Curriculum Bible lesson on DVD, (story, memory verse, song), Craft or color page to reinforce lesson, a snack (Goldfish or Cheez-its), and a supervised restroom trip.

Separation Anxiety

Some children experience separation anxiety when left in the care of others. The experienced Flip Flops staff works hard to handle anxious children by engaging them in activities and positive distractions (i.e. bubbles, toys) and when a child is extremely inconsolable, parent’s can be paged to return to Flip Flops to stay with the child.  Over a period of weeks this time can be adjusted as the child adapts to the separation. 

If possible, do not drop off your child when he/she is likely to be tired, hungry or stressed as this only increases their anxiety level.  Have a calm, positive attitude.
Make eye contact with your child, give him or her a hug, assure them you will return right after service, say goodbye and go.

Do not drag out your leaving or return prematurely.  Go with confidence knowing that if your child cries, compassionate child-care workers will comfort them and help them cope. Rest assured, the tears do not last long. 

Encouraging children to work through separation anxiety allows them the chance to develop skills and independence.  A consistent pattern of good-byes and reunions will build a child’s confidence in the parent-child relationship.

If you have any questions please contact Janie Weybright at janie@sandalschurch.com