When my kids were 5 and under, I didn't even let them go to Sunday School even though the church had one. I wanted them in the service, in the presence of God with me. I brought a rug, toys, food, you name it. The secret really, is not giving them everything at once.
I don't roll out my plan until the sermon has begun. This means that during the worship, my kids are worshipping with me -- I hold their hands (usually the youngest), to do some dance actions. The oldest will just stand or do their own. And when it gets to the end, I would hug them and worship standing, swaying until the littlest would fall asleep. Which is usually the case. If they're not asleep by then, I roll out the big plan.
I start off with food, not even the rug. Literally one piece of cereal at a time until things get really restless, and then I bring in a different type of food. Like a half boiled egg with shells on. It will take some time to peel it off (of course with a container under). At this point, they are still on the chair, not yet on the rug, so I can keep everything under control. When they get really restless after eating that egg, then I set out the rug. But only one toy -- like a truck. And then, another toy - like a farmer. I always keep the best for last. After like 15-20 pieces, my last resort will be a super amazing treat. Like chocolate. By then, the message is over.. but 90% of the time, I don't even have to bring it out.
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