Everyone thinks that their particular ministry call is “the best” but children’s ministry leaders have the unique position of being right. (Insert LOL here.) I have had the privilege of being involved with some dynamic ministries and worked in at least five different ministries like Adopt-A-Block, discipleship and even ladies ministries. However, working with kids has always been my favorite. … More Children’s Ministry Resources
Teaching kids is kind of an art form, isn’t it? My hat is off to all the professional educators out there. You guys rock! However, the rest of us who don’t have educational backgrounds can find ourselves in a classroom that seems out of control. We want to serve God, the kids and the church but the kiddos haven’t gotten … More Children’s Ministry Resources
A few months ago, I wrote an article called 10 Things That Drive a Children’s Pastor Crazy. So many folks responded to the humorous punch list, that I followed that up with 6 More Things That Drive a Children’s Pastor Crazy. (Thanks by the way for all the shares, likes and comments you gave us.) It was kind of cathartic … More Children’s Ministry Resources
This free Bible lesson is based on Matthew 22:15-22 on paying the imperial tax to Caesar. It is designed for children’s church or Sunday School. Please modify as best fits your ministry. If your church follows the Revised Common Lectionary, this teaching plan would correspond to Year A – 19th Sunday After Pentecost, Gospel Reading – Matthew 22:15-22. Lesson Opening Activity No Right Answer? … More Children’s Ministry Resources
Working in Christian ministry is unlike any other career choice. Working in a store, serving food or working at a desk job, rarely demands the level of service of ministry requires; children’s ministry insists that you leave little bits of your heart behind. (For the record, I’ve done all these jobs and proudly so!) Pastors give of themselves and often … More Children’s Ministry Resources
This lesson is the first in a nine part study for children on the parables of Jesus. For related ideas, search our website for “Parables of Jesus.” Lesson One: Why Jesus Told Parables Main idea: Parables are stories Jesus told to teach us important lessons about the Kingdom of Heaven. Teacher preparation: Read Scripture references, Proverbs 28:13-14, Isaiah 6:9-10, Mark 4:10-12 … More Children’s Ministry Resources
The following lesson is from a Proverbs series our entire church is studying. The lesson was used for a small group of children ranging from 6-10. The children discover that we can have an attitude of generous giving when we remember that God has given us everything. Bible Story Title: Proverbs-God gives us everything Scripture: Proverbs 11:24-25; Proverbs 10:22 and … More Children’s Ministry Resources
Depending on Bible college or seminary to prepare you for a children’s pastor role? Well, you might be in for a shock! As an eighteen-year veteran in children’s ministry, I can tell you that there are some surprise requirements to serving in this field. Luckily, most of them you probably already have within you, all you need is to tap … More Children’s Ministry Resources
Lesson Seven: The Way, the Truth, and The Life Main idea: Jesus is comfort and certainty in an uncertain world. Series: This study is part of a 8- part series on the I AM statements of Jesus. Follow that link to find the other lesson plans. Teacher preparation: Read Scripture references. Gather: Bible; dry erase markers or chart paper and markers; … More Children’s Ministry Resources
When recently asked to “come up with” an unusual outreach idea for Mother’s Day, I have to admit I was stumped. I love the usual tea party and flower distributions but that’s not anything unusual. I finally settled on this unique idea for Mother’s Day. In a corner of my children’s church, I’ve set up a photo booth for moms … More Children’s Ministry Resources
Happily, many churches will be full of families on Mother’s Day! Kick the excitement up a notch with one of these nifty mom-inspired ideas. With just a little pre planning and supplies, you could encourage a mother who may not always hear those two important words, “Thank you!” From whimsical photos to interactive thank you notes, we’ve got fun ideas … More Children’s Ministry Resources
Prayer has been on mind a lot recently. I have the privilege of parenting a son with Autism but my child (now teenager) has always been one to pray. From his kindergarten days when he’d come home crying to today when he has begun to show an interest in girls, I am thrilled my son takes everything to God in … More Children’s Ministry Resources
This Palm Sunday Lesson was created for a small group of children between the ages of 6-9. They will discover that the greatest need for all people is to be forgiven from their sins. Bible Passage: Matthew 21 Bible Story Title: Jesus’ Final Days: The Triumphal Entry Target Age Group: Ages 6-11 (K-5th Grade U.S.A.) Target Time Frame: 60 Minutes Original Teaching … More Children’s Ministry Resources
When you have a dozen pairs of curious eyes staring at you and the lesson is over–you need a game. I know that scenario happens to me and quite frequently. No matter how hard you plan, I always need one more activity or game. Rather than dreaming up something complicated or even expensive, reach for some hula hoops. Inexpensive and … More Children’s Ministry Resources
Kids can’t resist balloons, can they? This thought inspired me to get busy planning a fun game using a bunch of balloons. While we’re having fun, it doesn’t hurt to reinforce a bible verse! This active game is perfect for kids age 6 and up but you could probably introduce it to smaller kids if they don’t mind popping a … More Children’s Ministry Resources
Planning on hosting an Easter egg event this year? Handing out prizes (and all those eggs) is great but why not add some messages. During the plastic egg stuffing process, tuck in a mini message to encourage your kids, teens and adults. I’ve got 25 messages I plan on typing, printing and tucking inside my Easter eggs this year. What … More Children’s Ministry Resources
Prayer is something we should all do but understandably it can feel intimidating if you aren’t confident or experienced. I love listening to children pray. They really don’t have the presets we do and they aren’t afraid to ask God for anything. Still, after a few unanswered prayers, like, “Dear God, please make me fly,” kids will need some encouragement … More Children’s Ministry Resources
No matter how carefully I plan, I nearly always have some extra time left in my kids’ church, even after the lesson components. As Pastor Bill Wilson once said, “If you don’t put on a program for your kids, they’ll put one on for you.” The idea of “free time” in class is great but even these social opportunities need … More Children’s Ministry Resources
Make disciples! That was the command of Jesus to his disciples. What better way to fulfill this command then to disciple your own children and empower others to do the same. Biblical discipleship wasn’t in the classroom, it was demonstrated through daily interaction with others — letting them see Christ-like living. Even parents who are new Christians can disciple their … More Children’s Ministry Resources
We serve a God who loves the entire world so it makes sense to celebrate Him on Valentine’s Day. Besides sugar-laden treats, heart crafts and passing out Valentine cards, you’ll probably need a few games for your children’s ministry parties. With a few supplies and some preparation, you can offer these exciting four games to your kids. (Prepping for these … More Children’s Ministry Resources
Are you always looking for ways to keep kids involved in outreach ministry? Want some ideas for teaching your group about servanthood? Evangelism is a big part of what my local church’s mission statement but finding activities kids can participate in is challenging at times. Especially when parents can’t bring them or stay with them. Still, at least once a … More Children’s Ministry Resources
If you are looking for an exciting theme for children’s church this winter you can’t go wrong with an Olympic theme. Using an identifiable theme is a fun way to integrate lessons games and crafts into a comprehensive unit. Teachers know that reinforcing the lesson with games and activities is a great way to help kids remember what they have … More Children’s Ministry Resources
If I believed in magic, (which I don’t) I would have to say that balloons have a magical quality. No matter where you put them in a room, children will unavoidably be drawn to them. Even uninflated balloons are full of potential for kids. Don’t believe me? Place a basket full of balloons in the center of your classroom table. … More Children’s Ministry Resources
This free Bible lesson is part 6 of 10 in our Lord’s Prayer study. Click here to browse all the lessons and related ideas. Don’t miss our printable Lord’s Prayer coloring book, use it as an additional activity while teaching this unit. Main idea: As we wait for Jesus Christ to return, we follow God’s will and tell others the Good News of … More Children’s Ministry Resources