One of the biggest challenges in children’s ministry is keeping young minds excited and engaged. Kids today are constantly bombarded with information and activities, which can sometimes make it difficult to capture and maintain their attention in a classroom or group setting. Yet, it’s crucial that our lessons stick—both in their minds and in their hearts. That’s why having a toolbox of “Boredom Busters” is a must!

Below, I’ve compiled 25 creative strategies to help energize your children’s ministry and spark a genuine love for learning God’s Word.

1. Surprise Bags: Fill bags with random props or objects. Ask kids to guess how each item connects to the lesson.

2. Action Breaks: When attention starts to wander, pause the lesson for 30 seconds of jumping jacks, silly dances, or quick stretches.

3. Praise Parties: Begin each class by blasting upbeat worship music and letting kids sing and dance for a couple of minutes.

4. Mystery Guest: Invite a volunteer to “visit” the classroom as a Bible character. Have them share their story in first person.

5. Story Cubes: Roll dice decorated with pictures, then challenge kids to create a Bible story that includes those images.

6. Craft Stations: Set up multiple craft areas around the room. Rotate kids through each station for hands-on engagement.

7. Object Lessons: Use everyday items (like balloons, magnets, or dough) to illustrate biblical truths in concrete ways.

8. Puzzle Race: After telling a Bible story, hand out puzzle pieces with key words or phrases. The kids assemble the story together.

9. Team Trivia: Divide the group into teams and quiz them with lesson-related questions. Offer small rewards for correct answers.

10. Bible Verse Scavenger Hunt: Hide references or clues around the room. Kids race to find the correct verse in their Bibles.

11. Act It Out: Turn scriptures into mini skits. Encourage kids to dress up and perform the story in front of the group.

12. Art Journals: Provide notebooks and art supplies so kids can visually record what they learn each week.

13. Theme Days: Dress the room (and yourself) according to a weekly theme that ties into the lesson.

14. Unfinished Drawings: Start a drawing that relates to the Bible story. Have the kids finish it in their own creative ways.

15. Silent Signals: Create simple hand signals or gestures to get kids’ attention without shouting over them.

16. Q&A Panel: After teaching, let kids submit questions anonymously. Answer them in a panel-style discussion.

17. Sensory Bins: Fill tubs with tactile objects (sand, rice, fabric) to help illustrate points through touch and exploration.

18. Talent Spotlights: Give kids a moment to share a skill or hobby, tying it back to God’s gifts.

19. Minute-to-Win-It Games: Short, simple challenges that teach teamwork and perseverance.

20. Balloon Pass Review: Write questions on balloons; kids toss them around, and whoever catches one answers the question.

21. Group Storytelling: Go around the circle, with each child adding one sentence to a Bible-based story in progress.

22. Emoji Summaries: Challenge kids to summarize the Bible lesson using only emojis on a whiteboard or paper.

23. Life Application Stations: Set up stations showcasing real-life scenarios that connect the lesson to daily living.

24. Prop Drama: Provide a box of random props and let kids spontaneously create a skit retelling the Bible story.

25. Encouragement Circles: End each lesson by having kids give uplifting words to one another, reinforcing positive community.

Remember, the goal is to make scripture come alive in a way that’s meaningful, memorable, and fun. Experiment, adapt, and discover which methods resonate best with your group. By incorporating these Boredom Busters, you’ll see your children’s ministry lessons become more impactful—leading to brighter smiles, deeper connections, and long-lasting spiritual growth.

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