Children's classes
Classes that nurture qualities like honesty, kindness and generosity through stories, songs, prayers and play. Joyful, all welcome.
Open to all children regardless of family background. Parents are warmly invited to stay or to join the parallel adult circle.
Children's classes are a space for children — roughly ages 5 to 11 — to learn about virtues like truthfulness, kindness, courage and generosity through prayers, stories, songs, games and art.
The teachers are trained volunteers from the community. The classes are non-denominational in spirit: children of every background are welcome, and parents of every belief send their kids to them.
Origins & meaning
Bahá'ís consider the spiritual education of children to be one of the highest forms of community service. The classes draw on the Bahá'í writings about the noble nature of every child and on a global curriculum developed by the Ruhi Institute.
The materials emphasise universal virtues found in every spiritual tradition — honesty, generosity, justice, love — and the stories chosen reflect a wide range of cultures and faiths.
Frequently asked questions
What ages are children's classes for?+
Typically 5 to 11. Some communities run separate classes for younger and older children when there are enough kids.
Who are the teachers?+
Trained volunteers from the local community who have completed Ruhi Book 3 on teaching children's classes.
Are the teachers screened?+
Bahá'í communities follow local child-protection practices, and most communities require background checks (Canadian Police Information Check or equivalent) for class teachers.
Can I stay during the class?+
Yes — parents are always welcome to stay, and many communities run a parallel adult devotional or study circle at the same time.
My child has additional needs — can they attend?+
Yes. Speak to the teacher beforehand so they can prepare; the small class size usually makes accommodation straightforward.
Ask about other gatherings
Not everything is posted here. Send a note and someone from the local community team will get back to you with up-to-date information about children's classs near you.
Other community building activities
Junior youth group
Young people aged 11 to 14 meet to read together, talk about the world they want to build, and carry out small acts of service in their neighbourhood.
Read the guide →
Devotional
A reverent space where neighbours of every background read sacred writings, share music, and reflect together.
Read the guide →
Holy day
Sacred days each year mark the most significant moments in the lives of the founders of the Bahá'í Faith. Communities gather to remember, pray, and celebrate together — all welcome.
Read the guide →