Vacation Bible School season is right around the corner—and if you’re like most KidMin leaders, you’ve got a lot to do and not a lot of time. But the good news is: you can get ahead of the game. Whether your VBS is in June, July, or even August, spring is the perfect time to get serious about preparation. You don’t have to feel overwhelmed—you just need a plan.

Here are 10 ways you can start preparing for VBS right now and set yourself (and your team) up for an incredible summer of ministry:

1. Pray Like It Matters—Because It Does

Before you print flyers or prep crafts, cover your VBS in prayer. Ask God for wisdom, protection, open hearts, and a clear sense of mission. Start praying for the kids who will attend, the families you’ll reach, and your volunteers. The more you pray now, the more spiritually prepared your team will be.

2. Set Your Dates and Confirm the Calendar

This may seem obvious, but double-check your church calendar and community events to avoid scheduling conflicts. Make sure your dates are locked in with your church staff, facility team, and key leaders. Once confirmed, block off time on your personal calendar for prep, setup, and recovery—you’ll thank yourself later.

3. Clarify Your Vision

Yes, the curriculum gives you a theme—but what’s your vision for VBS this year? Is it outreach-focused? A discipleship week? A chance to involve new volunteers? Clarifying your “why” will help guide every other decision you make, from your schedule to your follow-up strategy.

4. Recruit Volunteers Early—and Creatively

Now’s the time to build your dream team. Don’t just make announcements—go personal. Text, call, and sit down with people one-on-one. Be clear about your needs, your expectations, and the impact they can make. Use social media, your church newsletter, and even your kids to spread the word. Create roles for all kinds of people—techies, behind-the-scenes types, grandmas who love crafts, and teenagers who bring the energy.

5. Start Promoting to Families

Don’t wait until the last minute to get the word out. Begin advertising now—especially if your church serves unchurched or busy families. Use your Sunday morning platform, parent emails, social media, and your church website. Create a short, fun video to spark excitement. Let people know why their kids should be part of this and what they can expect.

6. Organize a VBS Kickoff Meeting

Host an informal gathering for anyone interested in serving at VBS. Use it to share the vision, talk through the dates and basic schedule, and build early momentum. Keep it upbeat and encouraging—and be ready to answer questions. This is also a great time to preview the theme and curriculum, if you haven’t already.

7. Order Supplies and Materials

Shipping delays are real, friends. Don’t wait until June to place your orders. Take inventory of what you already have and place bulk orders for what you need. This includes crafts, decorations, snacks, name tags, and any curriculum extras. Tip: Ask a detail-oriented volunteer to help you manage and track supply needs—it’s a lifesaver!

8. Plan Your Decoration Strategy

VBS decorations can be a blast—or a headache—depending on how you prep. Take time now to plan your approach: Will you go all out or keep it simple? Who can help with set design? What decorations can you start making now? Consider creating a Pinterest board or idea folder to share with your team.

9. Create a Follow-Up Plan

One of the biggest missed opportunities in children’s ministry is VBS follow-up. Don’t let that happen this year. Start building your follow-up plan now. How will you reach out to new families? Will you send thank-you notes, invite them back, or offer a next step like a family fun night? Make sure your registration form collects useful contact info to support your follow-up.

10. Take Care of Yourself

This one may seem out of place—but it’s not. VBS is a big deal, and it takes a lot out of you. So start creating healthy rhythms now. Block off time each week for rest, prayer, and family. Get sleep. Drink water. Don’t try to do everything on your own. The best VBS leaders are healthy leaders.

Ryan Frank is a pastor, publisher, and entrepreneur. He and his wife Beth are the founders of KidzMatter.