Mobberly’s Leaps and Bounds ministry was created to meet the spiritual education needs of children in their early preschool years through sixth grade who have different learning needs. Many children were not thriving or able to learn in a standard classroom setting for a variety of reasons. Kids with sensory issues, Down syndrome, autism disabilities or handicaps are involved in Leaps and Bounds.
“We recognized that by using a multisensory approach, we could present bible lessons and experiences that would help these kids truly learn about Jesus and God’s love for them and others,” said Suzanne Walker, an associate elementary minister. “Prior to Leaps and Bounds, these kids were in and out of the classroom throughout the morning to accommodate their needs and were missing most of the main teaching time.”
Molly Webb, her husband, Evan, and their young son, Bowen, recently joined Mobberly. A home health pediatric speech language pathologist working with communication and swallowing disorders in children, Molly said God placed it on her heart to work with children with special needs at Mobberly. “I see these children I work with hardly ever leave their homes unless they’re traveling to a doctor’s appointment,” she said. “I prayed about helping with the new special needs class and I was just wowed by what God is doing and His perfect timing.”
“Because of Leaps and Bounds, many parents are able to attend worship gatherings for the first time, or the first time together,” Suzanne said. “Or, parents and families are now able to attend both worship and Connect Groups. Students are thriving in their relationships with one another and building friendships. They are reciting Scripture poems, singing songs about God, growing as individuals and, in some cases, running to get to class. The kids’ desire to be in these rooms is one of the best success indicators we have.”
For information about Leaps and Bounds, call the children’s ministry office at 903.663.7348.
