First Communion Day can be a lot to manage — getting everyone ready, getting to the church on time, and then pulling off a party afterwards. To take some of the pressure off, we’ve put together a list of things to remember for your child’s special day.
Between us we’ve been through several Communion and Confirmation days, some with a party at home and some out, and these are our top tips for things to remember and organise for the big day.
In the weeks before, shop early for the Communion outfit and make sure your child has shoes, socks and any other bits sorted well ahead of time — and don’t forget the rest of the family needs an outfit too!
For girls, a shrug or cardigan that matches the dress is a handy backup in case the weather turns on the day.
Ask the godparents if they’d like to give the child a prayer book or rosary beads as a keepsake. There will usually be an order of service provided for guests on the day itself, so this is more of a personal memento.
Make sure all your guests know how to find your home or venue, and if you’re hosting the party yourselves, book any bouncy castles or slides well in advance. And remember to collect the cake the day before!
Don’t Forget These Things for First Communion Day
#1. Powered Up
Make sure phones, cameras and any recording devices are fully charged the night before, and that there’s enough storage space free to capture the moments that matter.
Many churches don’t allow photos or filming during the ceremony itself, so if you’d like professional photos or video, check with the school in advance — they may be able to arrange a photographer that all parents can order from afterwards.
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#2. Fuelled Up
Make sure the whole family has a good breakfast on the day to keep everyone going until the party. The gap between breakfast and the celebration can feel long, especially for younger brothers and sisters.
#3. Christening Candle
Some schools ask you to bring your child’s christening candle along for the ceremony, and they may also need a copy of the baptismal certificate in advance. This can be requested from the parish office where your child was baptised. Check with the school to see exactly what’s needed and by when.
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#4. Be On Time
Traditionally, the Communion child sits with their classmates. Some churches allocate seating with a pew per family, while others don’t — either way, arrive in good time so your family can sit together.
Parking can be tight too, so the earlier you arrive, the better spot you’ll get.
It’s also worth checking there isn’t another mass finishing just before your ceremony, so you’re not left waiting outside.
#5. Who To Invite
Space in the church can be limited, and many schools cap the number of family members who can attend. Decide in advance who you’re inviting and let them know to arrive at least 30 minutes early.
Usually this covers parents, siblings, grandparents and sometimes godparents. If your church offers a webcam link, it can be a lovely way for anyone who can’t make it in person to still watch the ceremony live.
#6. Don’t Rush Off
Your child will want to spend time with their friends once the ceremony is over, and some schools organise a get-together for the children and families straight after. It’s also a good time to take photos, since many churches don’t allow this during the ceremony itself.
When you’re planning arrival times for your home or venue, build in a little extra time for your child to enjoy this part of the day.
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#7. Spares!
If your child (or you) is wearing tights, pack a spare pair just in case. It’s also worth having a couple of spare cards and some cash on hand, in case your child receives an unexpected gift on the day.
#8. Ask For Help
If you’re hosting the party at home, don’t be afraid to ask for help — whether that’s a neighbour popping in to turn the oven on while you’re at the church, or asking guests to bring a salad or dessert along.
Friends and family are usually only too happy to lend a hand.
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#9. All Change
Consider having a change of clothes ready for your child once the ceremony and photos are done. It lets them run around and enjoy the party without worrying about their dress, suit or smart outfit.
If your child wears their school uniform for the ceremony, a special Communion outfit for afterwards can make the rest of the day feel a bit more festive.
#10. Make Them Feel Special
Above all, remember whose day it is. Your Communion child should feel like the star of the show, so take the time to make them feel special — this day only comes around once.
Have you got any other things you’d add to the list for First Communion Day? Leave a comment below and let us know — we’d love to hear from you!
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Save This For Later
Communion season gets busy fast — bookmark this checklist now so it’s easy to find again when the big day gets closer, or share it with another parent who’s getting ready for their own First Communion.
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