"Simply put, children learn from the people they love. And love is the result of getting to know one another—it's the result of relationships. Before our kids come to know Jesus, they just might need to know us first."

When considering Kids Ministry - often times people just think of, “what can we do with the kids so the adults can have their service.” However, it is SO MUCH more than that. It is so much more than childcare! So how do you create a Kids Ministry that leaves kids begging their parents to bring them back?

As children’s ministers, we have to ask the question, are my teachers teaching or discipling children in my church? Are we more concerned about the developmental learning styles of children, whether they are concrete or abstract learners, than about whether they are being transformed by the work of the Holy Spirit in their lives?

Encourage the single parent to make the child part of the process. You might give the child scriptures or stories about people in the Bible who had to move. Some of these little kids feel like nomads wandering around or like the children of Israel having to wander the desert.

The topic of self-care often brings up a myriad of responses within churches and Christ-followers.  The concept seems overtly “non-Christian” to some of us.  Think about it; the word “self” is included in the title of this activity we are often encouraged to consider implementing in our lives.  And after all are we not directed, in Scripture, to die to self?  So why would we want to spend time “caring” for self. 

Don’t stay in that place of burnout, excuses, exhaustion, and mediocre leadership. You will end up not leading the way God intended for you to lead. Your ministry will suffer. The teams you lead will suffer, and your calling will not be as fulfilling as it once was. Jesus desires so much more for you, and those you lead need so much more from you.

What…… huh…. did you read that correctly? A single-parent kid in a two-parent home? How can that be? According to AECF.org thirty-four percent of all kids in the US are in a single parent home.

It’s Sunday morning and Bobby shows up at your church. You start the intake process and suddenly realize that he may require some special support. He has special needs. But it’s okay, because you are ready! You have carefully thought through some of the potential challenges and safety issues and you have a plan. If you don’t have a plan, YOU CAN! Don’t wait until these kiddos come to put a strategy together. Be intentional and start thinking about it NOW! While disabilities may vary and can be mild or severe, here are 10 things for consideration to make your ministry a safe place for kids with special needs.