Let’s be real—kids' ministry is awesome, but it can also get overwhelming sometimes. Between handling volunteers, planning events, and keeping up with kids and their families, it’s easy to feel stretched thin. But don’t worry; you don’t have to let the stress win! There are simple ways to manage it so you can enjoy the calling God’s given you without burning out. Here are a few tips to help you find some peace amid all the craziness:

1. Make Time for Prayer and Devotions

It’s easy to get caught up in the busyness of ministry, but don’t forget to spend time with Jesus! Daily prayer and Bible reading aren’t just for “spiritual” moments—they’re your fuel. When you spend time in God’s presence, it reminds you that you’re not doing this alone. It also gives you fresh strength and perspective for the day ahead. Remember, Jesus says, “Come to me, all who are weary,” not “Do it all yourself!” Let Him refresh your soul.

2. Share the Load—Delegate!

You might feel like you have to do everything, but trust me, you don’t. One of the best things you can do for yourself (and your ministry) is to delegate. Let your volunteers step up and take on tasks. They’re there to help, and many of them are just waiting for the chance to contribute in meaningful ways. Whether it’s organizing supplies, leading games, or even handling emails, find the things you don’t need to do and pass them off. You’ll feel lighter, and your team will feel more empowered.

3. Set Healthy Boundaries

It’s super tempting to say “yes” to everything in ministry, especially when it’s something you’re passionate about. But here’s the thing—you can’t do it all! Set clear boundaries around your time and energy. Don’t be afraid to say “no” to extra commitments when you’re already maxed out. And make sure you’re taking regular breaks! Even Jesus took time away to rest and pray, and if He needed it, so do we.

4. Get Organized

Disorganization can seriously crank up the stress. When your schedule is all over the place or things get forgotten, it’s easy to feel scattered. Take a little time to get organized—whether it’s using a calendar app, jotting down a to-do list, or making a simple checklist for upcoming events. Breaking bigger tasks into smaller steps also makes them easier to handle. You don’t have to be a planning pro; just find a system that works for you and stick with it. It’ll make a huge difference, trust me!

5. Build Up Your Team

You don’t have to do it all by yourself—a solid team makes a huge difference. Give your volunteers the training, support, and encouragement they need, and you'll feel less of the weight on your shoulders. When they feel appreciated and ready to take on tasks, they’ll be more likely to stick around and step up when needed. It’s a win-win for everyone!

6. Simplify When You Can

Sometimes we make things more complicated than they need to be. Not every lesson has to be Pinterest-worthy, and not every event needs to be a big show. Ask yourself: What’s the most important part? What can we trim down without losing the core of the ministry? Keeping things simple not only cuts down on your stress but also keeps the focus where it really matters—helping kids know and love Jesus.

7. Lean on Your Ministry Community

Don’t go it alone! Connect with other children’s ministry leaders who “get it.” Whether through local meetups, online groups, or conferences, having a support system of people who understand your world can be a game-changer. Sharing your struggles and successes with people who are in the same boat can help you feel less isolated—and remind you that you're not the only one navigating the challenges of ministry.

8. Remember Why You’re Here

In the midst of all the craziness, it’s easy to forget why you’re doing this. When stress starts to pile up, take a moment to remember your “why.” You’re not just running events or managing a team—you’re helping kids meet Jesus and grow in their faith. That big, lasting impact makes all the hard work worth it and helps keep things in perspective when things get tough.

9. Take Care of Yourself

Finally, don’t forget to take care of yourself! You can’t help others if you’re running on empty. Make sure you’re getting enough sleep, eating right, and doing things that recharge you. Whether it’s going for a walk, reading a good book, or hanging out with family, make time for what refreshes you. You’ll handle the demands of ministry way better when you’re taking care of yourself.

Kids' ministry is full of joy, laughter, and meaningful moments—but it can also be stressful if we’re not careful. By setting boundaries, staying organized, leaning on your team, and keeping your focus on Jesus, you can manage stress and keep the joy in your calling. Don’t forget—you’re not in this alone. God is with you, and He’s more than able to give you the peace and strength you need to thrive in ministry. You’ve got this!​

Sarah Petrokovich is the Children's Ministry Director at River Church in Alton, IL. Married to an amazing man, Joe, they are the proud parents to two wonderful adult children, Halee and Daniel. Sarah has been dedicated to serving in Kids Ministry since her teenage years. Her passion for nurturing children's spiritual growth and creating engaging, faith-filled experiences has been a cornerstone of her ministry work. She also invests in developing other kids' ministry leaders, pouring into them with guidance and support to strengthen their ability to positively impact young lives.