Children's Programs
Children at General Assembly
General Assembly (GA) is a multigenerational experience especially accessible and welcoming to families with children. Children are invited to attend GA events with their parents or guardians. Children who have not yet entered high school (or its equivalent) may enjoy GA events with their parents or guardians at no cost, however, registration is required.
New! Whole Church RE – The UUA Lifespan Faith Engagement staff have created a faith development toolbox that includes “best practices” like story, song, embodied learning, play, creative movement, artistic expression, problem solving, making, ritual and ceremony. These resources expand faith development beyond RE classrooms and integrate them into congregational and group settings. During live programming (i.e. General Sessions, Service of the Living Tradition, Synergy, Ware, and Sunday worship) in Halls F/Swing, a Whole Church RE activation will take place in the rear of the General Session Hall. Nestled amongst round tables, families with children may gather to network, play, and co-supervise their children. GA volunteer Andrea Lerner will be available to coordinate activities and offer support.
New! Family Cohort/Meet-Up Group – Families with children are encouraged to network, coordinate meal meet-ups, gather in groups for GA programming, and/or explore the Inner Harbor or plan other outings. GA volunteer Ahmie Yeung, is available to support families in making connections by hosting a community page on the GA app, hosting a pre-GA online meet-and-greet, and support families in scheduling in-person and online meet-ups during GA.
Child with Parent
There is no cost to register or cancel a child attending with a parent or guardian. By registering your child as a ‘Child with Parent’, you acknowledge that your child will remain under your constant supervision while attending General Assembly.
Children may be registered by adding a ‘Guest Child 0-14’ to your adult registration (step 4 on the adult registration form). If professional supervision is required, Children’s Programs are available (advance registration and payment required, see below).
Childcare at GA
Registration is now closed for GA Children’s Programs. Late or on-site registrations cannot be accommodated given strict capacity limits, due to required staffing ratios and space availability. Additional support, activities, and opportunities for connection can be found at the Whole Church Religious Education (WCRE) area in the main hall. The WCRE area is shepherded by professional religious educators and volunteers to welcome all ages into a playful, community building space throughout GA.
General Assembly is pleased to offer childcare for 6 months – 14 year-olds during the four days of GA. Advance registration is required and space is limited. Childcare hours are tailored to the GA schedule as much as possible and are subject to change.
Middle schoolers who are registered for Children’s Programs may participate in programming based on the Deeper Joy Faith Curriculum on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday afternoon. Deeper Joy is compilation of games, songs, activities and practices designed to foster inclusive, multigenerational communities. It’s not about hard work, but rather, a willingness to play ~ something deemed important given the complexities of life our children (and indeed all of us) are experiencing. Deeper Joy programming is facilitated by Jennifer Blosser, DRE, UU Fellowship of Harford County in Churchville, Maryland.
Childcare will be held at an adjacent hotel (detailed directions will be included in your confirmation). To ensure a safe and fun-filled environment, any child who is ill will not be admitted to the program. Additionally, the UUA reserves the right to limit participation of any child whose presence or behavior may disrupt the program or endanger the health or safety of others.
Parents should feed children before delivering them to the Children’s Programs. Lunch and a snack will be provided Thursday through Saturday, as well as a snack on Sunday, for children registered under the multi-day package program. Single day attendees will receive a daily snack.
Child care activities for children 6 months to 14 years old may include fun themes, arts & crafts, group games, music & movement, board games, story time, dramatic play, etc. Providers will provide activities appropriate for each age group, using safe and sturdy equipment.
Registrations cancelled from May 24 – June 17 are subject to a 50% cancellation fee. No refunds after June 17.
2025 Hours
Full Program — $300/child includes daily lunch and snack
- Thursday, June 19, 10 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.
- Friday, June 20, 10 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.
- Saturday, June 21, 10 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.
- Sunday, June 22, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Reduced Hours/Daily Program — $75/day includes afternoon snack
- Thursday, June 19, 1 – 5:30 p.m.
- Friday, June 20, 1 – 5:30 p.m.
- Saturday, June 21, 1 – 5:30 p.m.
- Sunday, June 22, 1 – 4 p.m.
Pre-GA Childcare
Child care is available for families of Religious Professionals participating in pre-GA professional events June 16-18. UUMA Members, UUA Staff, UUA Board and members of UU Professional Associations may enroll in UUMA Child Care through May 31, 2025.