Children + Youth

At Central UMC, we believe young people are the church of today and the leaders of tomorrow. Next Generation Ministries is a family-focused program that serves those with children aged 0 to 18. Next-Gen events are for the entire family, adults and children. Some events may include a family float trip, back-to-school bash, and trunk or treat. We strive to bond generations through Christian fellowship. 

Next Gen Ministries

Littles

Click below for our Central Littles Page

Littles

Central Kids

Click below for our Central Kids Page

Kids

Central Youth

Click below for our Central Youth Page

Youth

Daycare + Preschool

Central Children's Academy

Central Children's Academy was established as a nonprofit entity by Central United Methodist Church in 1978 to serve Northwest Arkansas families and their children by providing weekday, year-round childcare services. The Academy operates a preschool program with two, three, or five-day care options. The program is fully licensed by the State of Arkansas and certified Level Three by Better Beginnings (the Arkansas Quality Rating and Improvement System for early education and care programs). For more information about Central Children's Academy, please contact us by calling 479-442-4237 or emailing us at  .

Click here for the Academy Website

Next Gen Staff

Kari Horton | CCA Director

Mary Bassett | Director of Central Littles

Erika Regier | Director of Central Kids

Zack Bloodworth | Director of Central Youth

Safe Gatherings

Background check and Security

Safe Gatherings is a comprehensive system that incorporates an online application, online abuse prevention training, several levels of background checks, and paperless reference checks for people who volunteer or are employed with churches, schools, and organizations that serve or work with children, youth, and vulnerable adults. Safe Gatherings also provides access to Clergy and Ministerial Ethics training, a two-hour online course that covers the top ethical and congregational boundary issues faced today by clergy and other ministry leaders.

Instructions for Completing Safe Gatherings