Wiggle worship?!
You may have heard the term “Wiggle Worship” floating around when Kingdom Play or visits to our parish primary schools have been discussed. What is it, exactly?
Wiggle is a bookworm puppet, and he loves books so much that he even decorated his house to look like his favourite book - the Bible! Wiggle likes to bring things to share with the children, like a thought-provoking object, a story, an action song and a craft, all connected around a Christian theme.
Wiggle especially loves to sing and dance, and even has his own warm up song that involves hopping and spinning and wiggling like a worm! That song reminds us that “Wise people listen” and “Wise people learn” which is inspired by Proverbs 1:5.
Wiggle Worship was developed specifically with the interests, needs and developmental levels of very young children in mind. It was created within Manchester Diocese and has spread to many church toddler groups and primary schools. There is specific training offered by Jo Haslam, our diocese’s Early Years Advisor.
Wiggle Worship is an age-appropriate worship session where children can learn more about God and engage in praising Him. For example, each session typically has colourful scarves passed around to each child before singing a simple “Scarf Song” with verses such as “Can you praise God way up high” or “Can you praise God way down low” or “Thank you, God, you’re everywhere! Amen!”
I have been reminded that our God does not have an age requirement or ability level that must be met before we can approach Him with praise. In fact, the joy and abandon with which children can enter into worship is a beautiful reminder and challenge.
Pray with us
Lord God, thank you for all the precious children and youth who are in our area. Please help us to model your love in all of our interactions. Teach us what it means to live righteously, doing right by God and loving others.
Heavenly Father you are worthy of all our praise, because of who you are and because of all you have done. When times are good and when times are tough, please help us to remember your goodness and praise you.
And please help us to learn more about how to praise you with a pure and joy-filled heart, like a child. Amen!