Every week, families walk through the doors of our children’s ministry carrying different emotions and experiences. Some children arrive excited and eager to jump into the day, while others may feel shy, nervous, or unsure about what to expect. Parents may be rushing from a busy morning or quietly hoping their child will feel safe and welcomed. Because of this, the first and last interactions we have with children and families matter deeply.

Those first moments help set the tone for everything that follows. In many ways, they communicate something more powerful than words: “You are seen. You are valued. You are loved here.” As leaders and volunteers in children’s ministry, we have the incredible opportunity to help children and families experience the love of Jesus through simple and intentional interactions.

The First 30 Seconds Matter

Think about the first 30 seconds when a child walks into the room. A smile, eye contact, saying their name, getting down on their level, and showing genuine interest in how they are doing can make a significant difference. These small gestures help children feel safe, welcomed, and known.

For many kids, those first few seconds determine whether they feel comfortable participating, asking questions, and engaging in the activities for the rest of their time in ministry. A warm welcome can calm nervousness, build trust, and help children feel that they truly belong.

Jesus Shows Us How to Welcome Children

Throughout the Gospels, we see how much Jesus valued children. In the Gospel of Mark 10:13–16, people were bringing children to Jesus so He could bless them. The disciples tried to send them away, but Jesus responded differently:

“Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these… And he took the children in his arms, placed his hands on them and blessed them.”

In this moment, Jesus stopped everything to notice the children. He welcomed and blessed them. Jesus showed that children are not a distraction or an afterthought—they are deeply valued in the kingdom of God. When we take time to notice children and help them feel seen, we reflect the very heart of Jesus.

Each Child Is Wonderfully Made

Scripture reminds us that every child is uniquely created by God. In Book of Psalms 139:13–14 we read:

“For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother’s womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made.”

Each child who enters our ministry carries a unique personality, story, and purpose. When we welcome children, encourage them, and celebrate their gifts, we help them understand God’s love and their God-given value.

Building a Culture of Encouragement

Another powerful reminder comes from First Thessalonians 5:11:

“Therefore encourage one another and build each other up.”

At FBC Kids, one of our overall expectations is simple: we are in the build-them-up business, not the tear-them-down business. Everything we say and do should strengthen and encourage others—children, families, and fellow leaders.

We build up God by honoring Him and pointing children to His truth.
We build up each other by encouraging fellow leaders and speaking life-giving words.
We build up ourselves by spending time with Jesus and allowing Him to shape our hearts.
When encouragement becomes the culture, kindness and Christlike love naturally follow.

Creating an Environment Where Kids Belong

Children may forget the lesson or activity from a given Sunday, but they will often remember how they felt. When kids feel seen, valued, and loved, their hearts become more open to experiencing the love of Jesus.

Sometimes the most powerful moments in children’s ministry begin with something simple: a smile, a name, and a moment of genuine care.

Living This Out

As you reflect on this, consider two simple questions:

How can you live into this this week?

What small action can help a child or family feel seen, valued, and loved?

How can you encourage your fellow leaders to live into this as well?

What word of encouragement could strengthen someone serving alongside you?

When we intentionally choose to build others up, we create a ministry where children and families don’t just attend—they truly know they belong.

Melia Warren has dedicated 20 years to full-time children’s ministry and resides in McMinnville, TN. Her passion lies in working with children and families, sharing Christ's love, and fostering spiritual growth through discipleship. She delights in celebrating God’s work, experiencing profound joy by saying yes to Jesus, and spreading His love. Melia treasures connecting with others and welcomes the opportunity to pray with or for you—reach out to her at melia@fbcmcminnville.com.