Check In / Check Out
Check In Process
Things to Remember
There must always be two people in the room: One woman and one man.
Children are not permitted near the check-in desk or to participate in the check-in/check-out process.
Youth leaders are not allowed to check children in or out.
Once the sticker is placed on the clipboard, each child must receive a wristband for their small group.
The wristband must remain on the child at all times, as it helps identify the group to which the child belongs. Once a child is checked in, the child is under our care and responsibility.
Children are not allowed to leave the room during the check-in period. If a child needs to use the restroom, contact your leader.
Children should never be allowed to leave the room when adults are present in the hallways.
Check the grade listed on the sticker and confirm that it matches your small group’s grade level. If the sticker indicates a different grade, inform the parent that the child must be checked into the correct grade.
Group Wrist Bands
Every small group has its own wrist band color, this is used to easily identify who belongs in which group.
After the sticker is placed on your small group clipboard, each child in your group needs to receive your small group wristband.
Make sure that the wristband is fastened securely and that the child always has it on.
Make sure to bring extra wrist bands along and your clipboard when you go to large group.
Child Stickers
Every child entering your room must have a complete set of check-in stickers, as shown. One sticker is placed on the clipboard, one worn by the child as a name tag, and one kept by the parent or guardian, which is required for check-out.
If a child does not have his or her stickers, encourage the parents to return to the check in kiosk to print them. If there were printing, or other issues, we are able to use the blank orange stickers or complete a manual check in using the white stickers.
Once a child is checked in, they are under our care and responsibility.
Do not allow children to leave the room during the check-in process. If you have a child that has a tendency to use the restroom, ask or encourage them to go before he or she is checked in.
Late Check In
Small Group Transition to Large Group
Small groups should be ready to move to Large Group by 6:05 PM.
Once the group begins moving, children will no longer be checked in in the classrooms.
Parents should be directed to the theater area for child check-in.
Never check in a child while in transit to the theater.
Always bring your clipboard, sign-in sheets, and wristbands when moving to Large Group.
Check-In Guidelines
The check-in process is the same as in the classroom.
When checking in children, clearly inform parents where to check out their child, as many mistakenly think check-out is in the theater area.
Checkout Process
Key Things to Remember
In order to check out a child, the person picking them up must present the parent sticker. If the sticker is not provided, contact a leader immediately for assistance.
Only an adult or a sibling who is at least 16 years old may check out a child.
Youth Leaders are not permitted to check out children.
Checkout Safety Reminders
Checkout time can move quickly and become confusing, which is when mistakes are most likely to happen. Stay focused and follow procedures carefully.
Children must remain in the room until they are fully checked out.
Children should never be at the checkout desk—only small group leaders may handle checkout.
Before releasing a child, the wristband and name tag must be removed.
Never remove a child’s name tag yourself—it must be removed by the child or the parent.
If the individual picking up the child does not have a pickup sticker, immediately contact your team leader or service coordinator.
Remember: we may not be aware of situations happening outside of church. A child recognizing or being excited to see someone does not authorize release.
Children are our responsibility until checkout is complete. Do not remove name tags or wristbands until the child has been properly checked out.