I have been incredibly fascinated with culture shock over the past 3 years. Why? Because I experienced it head-on in Reno. Now I'm in New Orleans and fully expect to deal with the ugly (and sometimes interesting) monster that is culture stress.
I realize that most of the time we expect to experience this with international living, but watch a person adjust from a small town to big city (or vice versa) or from region to region and you will notice what I'm talking about. Why did I put this on a kids ministry blog? At 24-27 I dealt with culture shock and for awhile it was ugly. Reno friends, I love you and would not change my experiences there for anything in the world; please forgive me for any wrong ways I dealt with culture shock. Although kids are known for bouncing back quickly, they also like stability, and a move can rock the need for stability.
I got my information on culture shock from a website that I thought did a great job of explaining the 4 stages of culture shock. You can find the link here.
As I talk I will be going back and forth between my own experiences and what you may want to be looking for in your classroom if you have a child new to the area.
1. The first stage of culture shock is excitement (or the honeymoon stage). This is a new experience and the excitement is great. You may have experienced this stage on vacation.
When I first moved to Reno, my church was coming on a mission trip and I had a great time with them, but I have to admit I was an emotional wreck while they were there. The main reason...they were on a mission trip, I was staying. This terrified me. However, after they left I cried a last tear and jumped into learning my new strange culture. Sometimes I felt like I was in a different culture. I had gone from the south to the west, from a small town to a pretty good sized city. The first thing that I discovered was that southerners are not assertive at all-and I was now working in an office at a church with possibly the most assertive woman I had ever met! It was exciting to get to know the people and explore the places. I loved being able to find my way around! My birthday came during the excitement phase, and everyone was so friendly it didn't really bother me being away from home. Christmas was coming and I was going home, so I invited a new friend from Reno to come with me. I think this was because my new culture felt so exciting and strange that going into my home culture didn't feel real. It was (for the most part) a great experience for both of us, and I learned a lot about my new culture from watching her interact. In the meantime, she fell in love with my old culture.
You may notice that after a new child in your class gets comfortable, they start exploring the classroom and what you do. They are in a fun and exciting time in their life.
2. Stage 2 is withdrawal. The honeymoon stage is over and the person has realized that this strange place is where they are going to be for quite awhile. Suddenly the differences in the culture are strange and frustrating. At this point the culture becomes very frustrating and the person may act out through withdrawal or through anger towards the new culture.
Stage 2 hit me hard around summer. VBS has started, and although it was a fun experience, I was realizing that I was not in the south anymore! I was the VBS director at church that year, and things weren't going as "southern" as I wanted! Changes in plans and things not going my way really frustrated me! The same mission team was in town that week too, and being able to vent to one sympathetic ear was a lifesaver! The summer went on and I continued to see that I really had moved out of my comfort zone. I withdrew quite a bit, but I also got a little too "assertive" when dealing with at least one of the VBS's that summer. I'm human, I wish I hadn't, but I feel that I have to be honest with you.
The child experiencing stage 2 may get very quiet and talk about missing home. Encourage him and try to be understanding. He may also begin to act out and start telling you your doing it wrong because his other teacher didn't do it that. Please have grace with this child, I promise it will get better!
Stage 3 is adjustment. The person has begun to understand the culture and accepts it. The person no longer feels isolated.
This was a great time for me. I had really taken an interest in getting to know people better. I didn't quite think like a westerner, but I understood how they were thinking and could relate better with them. At the end of my adjustment time I went home for Christmas. Home felt strange. I loved spending time with my family, but being surrounded by southern accents felt very weird to me. After 2 weeks I was ready to get back to Nevada.
Be sure to affirm the student as he deals with adjustment. He will be more open to you and the way you do things.
Stage 4 is enthusiasm. The person is now comfortable in the culture and is at home. The person probably will have accepted certain culture traits and maybe prefer those traits to their home culture. The person may have even adopted many of their cultural traits.
Stage 4 wasn't a stage I noticed much, except that I found myself relaxing. I didn't have to think so much about how to deal with people in my environment. Introducing people to my home was a great time! I had figured out assertiveness and could use it pretty well. When I left Nevada it was really a sad time. I was going to miss this culture and as I dealt with the excitement of being home for a few months, I found myself longing for aspects of that "once strange culture" that had now become a huge part of me, and in many ways, "home".
I know over the next few months and years I will probably experience the same emotions as I learn this new culture in New Orleans. I look forward to the adventure.
I hope this was helpful and would love for you to comment and give me some of your own "culture shock" stories, but internationally and domestically.
Saturday, August 20, 2011
Wednesday, July 20, 2011
My Story Is Just a Little Different
Last year I was at a church VBS where the teens had been prepped to share their testimonies. One by one girls got up and tearfully talked about all the things they had done in their young lives, but then someone invited them to church, and Jesus changed their lives. Then they shared how great life was now that they knew Jesus.
Then the VBS Director asked me to share my testimony with the kids. This doesn't happen very often. And honestly, my story was very different than the stories told before.
You see, I was a pretty good kid. I hadn't done drugs or any of the other things that often creep into testimonies. Then one day my pastor's daughter, Joy, told me I couldn't take communion if I wasn't saved. I think I took it anyway. But then my Granddad asked Jesus into his life and I saw a change.
As best as I remember, I was laying in the roll away bed at my grandparents when I began to feel strongly that I needed to ask Jesus into my life. It became very obvious to me that I had done things that displeased God, called sin. I knew the penalty of sin was death from a verse I had read in the Bible. I had also heard from another verse that if I asked Jesus to forgive me and come into my life, He would. So, I asked Jesus to come into my life. There were no people there. No one knew, it was just me and God.
Most people share how much better life gets when they ask Jesus into their lives. My story is different.You see, a week before I was suppose to be be baptized, my dad went camping. He never came home. He passed away that weekend. (I wasn't that detailed with the kids, I just told them that my dad died shortly after I asked Jesus into my life.) You see, when I asked Jesus to come into my life in a lot of ways my life got worse.
But, it also got better. You see, although the pain from my dad passing away was very real and hurt, a lot. Yet, in some way, I knew that even in my pain God still cared for me and loved me. He really did help me get through that time. Over the years, God has also made it very clear that He is the Everlasting Father who will never leave me.
My story was different from the youth that day, and that's okay. We all have different stories. The truth is God has given us all a unique story so that we can share with others. My story may relate with some people, and yours may relate with others. The important thing is that we share.
Then the VBS Director asked me to share my testimony with the kids. This doesn't happen very often. And honestly, my story was very different than the stories told before.
You see, I was a pretty good kid. I hadn't done drugs or any of the other things that often creep into testimonies. Then one day my pastor's daughter, Joy, told me I couldn't take communion if I wasn't saved. I think I took it anyway. But then my Granddad asked Jesus into his life and I saw a change.
As best as I remember, I was laying in the roll away bed at my grandparents when I began to feel strongly that I needed to ask Jesus into my life. It became very obvious to me that I had done things that displeased God, called sin. I knew the penalty of sin was death from a verse I had read in the Bible. I had also heard from another verse that if I asked Jesus to forgive me and come into my life, He would. So, I asked Jesus to come into my life. There were no people there. No one knew, it was just me and God.
Most people share how much better life gets when they ask Jesus into their lives. My story is different.You see, a week before I was suppose to be be baptized, my dad went camping. He never came home. He passed away that weekend. (I wasn't that detailed with the kids, I just told them that my dad died shortly after I asked Jesus into my life.) You see, when I asked Jesus to come into my life in a lot of ways my life got worse.
But, it also got better. You see, although the pain from my dad passing away was very real and hurt, a lot. Yet, in some way, I knew that even in my pain God still cared for me and loved me. He really did help me get through that time. Over the years, God has also made it very clear that He is the Everlasting Father who will never leave me.
My story was different from the youth that day, and that's okay. We all have different stories. The truth is God has given us all a unique story so that we can share with others. My story may relate with some people, and yours may relate with others. The important thing is that we share.
Saturday, July 16, 2011
Confessions of an Insomniac
I'm not usually an insomniac, but for whatever reason, I've been trying to go to bed for 2 hours and it hasn't worked.
Maybe its because of the high amount of caffeine I've had today (although I've had none since 4:00).
Maybe it's that our family dog of 17 years is acting funky and I'm a little worried about her.
Maybe I went to bed too early.
Maybe Grandpa's still watching TV and because he's hard of hearing the sound is distracting me.
Maybe it's that the Grandparents don't believe in AC overnight and I'm a little hot.
Maybe I shouldn't have sent that text message right before I laid down.
Maybe it's all of these things.
I don't know, but I like to think I've been making good use of the time while I've tried to sleep.
First I tossed and turned and decided to go over my children's church lesson in my head.
That was great except I remembered a great memory verse trick to help my youngest class members (putting shapes on the bottom of the words so they can connect a "puzzle" and then we can go over the verse. eg. a heart on both the word and the word after it, then a square on the next two cards and keep going until you get to the end.)
And when I remembered the game my brain wouldn't stop until I prepared the game.
So then I reread the lesson plan.
Then I turned off the light and laid back down, hoping that with my lesson more than ready I would get sleep.
As I tossed and turned I decided to pray for people. As I was praying I looked out my window. Right between the two trees was the moon, whose beams look like a perfect cross. I thanked God for the cross.
Then I decided to try to get a picture of the cross. My cell was right by the bed so I tried camera phone. I got a very little white dot. I turned on the light and looked for my camera. As I almost had the perfect angle, the battery died. And the very bright moon is still shining in my room, a mixed blessing.
Apparently, I wasn't suppose to get a picture of the cross. However, after a day that left me longing for whatever is next, the cross was a great reminder that God still knows what is next and He's got it covered. I needed that, so once again I say, "Thank you, God!"
Now, as I add blogging to my list of things I'm doing because I can't sleep, hopefully sleep will find me so I can be rested for class in the morning.
Maybe its because of the high amount of caffeine I've had today (although I've had none since 4:00).
Maybe it's that our family dog of 17 years is acting funky and I'm a little worried about her.
Maybe I went to bed too early.
Maybe Grandpa's still watching TV and because he's hard of hearing the sound is distracting me.
Maybe it's that the Grandparents don't believe in AC overnight and I'm a little hot.
Maybe I shouldn't have sent that text message right before I laid down.
Maybe it's all of these things.
I don't know, but I like to think I've been making good use of the time while I've tried to sleep.
First I tossed and turned and decided to go over my children's church lesson in my head.
That was great except I remembered a great memory verse trick to help my youngest class members (putting shapes on the bottom of the words so they can connect a "puzzle" and then we can go over the verse. eg. a heart on both the word and the word after it, then a square on the next two cards and keep going until you get to the end.)
And when I remembered the game my brain wouldn't stop until I prepared the game.
So then I reread the lesson plan.
Then I turned off the light and laid back down, hoping that with my lesson more than ready I would get sleep.
As I tossed and turned I decided to pray for people. As I was praying I looked out my window. Right between the two trees was the moon, whose beams look like a perfect cross. I thanked God for the cross.
Then I decided to try to get a picture of the cross. My cell was right by the bed so I tried camera phone. I got a very little white dot. I turned on the light and looked for my camera. As I almost had the perfect angle, the battery died. And the very bright moon is still shining in my room, a mixed blessing.
Apparently, I wasn't suppose to get a picture of the cross. However, after a day that left me longing for whatever is next, the cross was a great reminder that God still knows what is next and He's got it covered. I needed that, so once again I say, "Thank you, God!"
Now, as I add blogging to my list of things I'm doing because I can't sleep, hopefully sleep will find me so I can be rested for class in the morning.
Friday, July 1, 2011
Happy 4th of July
Happy 4th of July!
I hope you will take advantage of this holiday being on a Monday by using Sunday to encourage your kids to pray for our country. Suggest that your kids pray for national, state, and local government leaders. You may need to print pictures of some of the leaders if you are praying specifically. Explain that all of our leaders need wisdom from God to do their jobs well.
I realize that we all have political preferences. Please be careful to keep these out of your children's ministry. You aren't there to talk politics, but to encourage prayer for our leaders (whether we like them or not).
I admit, I don't pray for our leaders nearly as much as I should, but I do try to pray when I think about it. Perhaps I am also challenging myself in this respect.
I hope you will take advantage of this holiday being on a Monday by using Sunday to encourage your kids to pray for our country. Suggest that your kids pray for national, state, and local government leaders. You may need to print pictures of some of the leaders if you are praying specifically. Explain that all of our leaders need wisdom from God to do their jobs well.
I realize that we all have political preferences. Please be careful to keep these out of your children's ministry. You aren't there to talk politics, but to encourage prayer for our leaders (whether we like them or not).
I admit, I don't pray for our leaders nearly as much as I should, but I do try to pray when I think about it. Perhaps I am also challenging myself in this respect.
Monday, June 20, 2011
VBS/Sports Camp
Last week was incredibly busy for me. Three churches partnered together to offer Vacation Bible School in the morning and Sports Camp in the afternoon. We had the kids for 8 hours!
The week had its challenges and its blessings!
My VBS class of Kindergartners had 5 children most of the week. J, our lone girl did a great job of keeping a good attitude and was relieved when another girl showed up on Friday. We had 4 boys, one who was almost autistic, two who have some behavioral issues, and M, whose older brother was never far enough away to keep him out of trouble.
For Sports Camp I made sure the Pre-K and Kindergarten boys all made it from rotation to rotation. Between 4 and 7 boys were at Sports Camp every day. They kept us busy, but it was a great time for them to experience basketball and soccer. Some were really good!
I have to say something about the youth volunteers who helped. They were amazing! Their focus on the kids and the tasks they were given was amazing! Teaching children who are too young even for Rec leagues can be difficult, but they did an amazing job!
I won't bore you with all my VBS stories, but I will share two. The kids watched the mission video about "Proof" a missionary dog who works in the New York City. The kids got that Proof was a dog, and that "he read to the kids who had trouble reading." In reality, the kids read to Proof. As I was talking to the kids about Proof, I mentioned that Proof had recently had surgery. The kids finally realized that missions was more than just a made up story!
Before lunch on Friday I was reviewing Bible stories and memory verses with the kids. M, who I had affectionately nicknamed in my head "M Come Back!," told me all the Bible stories. I was glad the stories got through to this boy who is very smart.
I would love to hear some of your favorite VBS stories as the summer progresses.
The week had its challenges and its blessings!
My VBS class of Kindergartners had 5 children most of the week. J, our lone girl did a great job of keeping a good attitude and was relieved when another girl showed up on Friday. We had 4 boys, one who was almost autistic, two who have some behavioral issues, and M, whose older brother was never far enough away to keep him out of trouble.
For Sports Camp I made sure the Pre-K and Kindergarten boys all made it from rotation to rotation. Between 4 and 7 boys were at Sports Camp every day. They kept us busy, but it was a great time for them to experience basketball and soccer. Some were really good!
I have to say something about the youth volunteers who helped. They were amazing! Their focus on the kids and the tasks they were given was amazing! Teaching children who are too young even for Rec leagues can be difficult, but they did an amazing job!
I won't bore you with all my VBS stories, but I will share two. The kids watched the mission video about "Proof" a missionary dog who works in the New York City. The kids got that Proof was a dog, and that "he read to the kids who had trouble reading." In reality, the kids read to Proof. As I was talking to the kids about Proof, I mentioned that Proof had recently had surgery. The kids finally realized that missions was more than just a made up story!
Before lunch on Friday I was reviewing Bible stories and memory verses with the kids. M, who I had affectionately nicknamed in my head "M Come Back!," told me all the Bible stories. I was glad the stories got through to this boy who is very smart.
I would love to hear some of your favorite VBS stories as the summer progresses.
Monday, June 13, 2011
Why I'm Not a Fan of Physical Touch and What That has To Do With Children's Ministry
A little over a month ago I was having car problems and was really frustrated. A close person to me decided to try to make me feel better by rubbing my back. Although she meant well, it didn't help because I am not a huge fan of physical touch, and when I'm stressed I really don't want to be touched.
On the other hand, when I was in high school my mom gave me a little bear for Valentines Day. She's not a big gift giver, but I was so excited about getting something from her, that I took it to school and kept it with me all day. You would have thought I had a secret admirer, but it really made me feel special.
A few years ago I read The Five Love Languages by Gary Chapman and suddenly a lot of my little quirks made sense. Then I read the Five Love Languages of Children by the same author. I would suggest these book for anyone who deals closely with...well anyone.
The basic principle of the Five Love Languages is that there are only 5 ways universally that people give and receive love. Each person speaks one or two of these languages better than the others, and the love languages can really help in relating with people you love.
The first Language I mentioned was Physical Touch. Some people really thrive off a literal pat on the back or a hug, while others (like me) cringe at the thought of being touched (although I will hug back if hugged and not cringe, I promise!) This doesn't make either person more or less normal, it just speaks differently to each person.
The second Language I mentioned was Giving and Receiving Gifts. I enjoy this one. However, I also realize that some people get nothing out of being given a gift.
The third Language is Acts of Service. Basically, some people like to serve others and be served (maybe doing dishes or yard work for people) and some people get nothing out of it.
The fourth Language is Quality Time. I think this is self-explanatory.
The fifth Language is Words of Affirmation. Some people thrive on compliments, some don't.
So what does this have to do with children's ministry? Simply put, while speaking a child's love language can make them feel great, using their love language against them can really hurt a child. The child whose love language is quality time may do great with one on one time with a caring adult when they are having behavioral problems, but completely isolating them could cause major problems. Also, speak the language sincerely. Compliments just to compliment or gifts as a bribe are not speaking a love language.
If you haven't Read The Five Love Languages of Children, I would highly suggest it. This week, be thinking about those difficult children you work with and see if you can figure out their love language. Maybe it will help.
On the other hand, when I was in high school my mom gave me a little bear for Valentines Day. She's not a big gift giver, but I was so excited about getting something from her, that I took it to school and kept it with me all day. You would have thought I had a secret admirer, but it really made me feel special.
A few years ago I read The Five Love Languages by Gary Chapman and suddenly a lot of my little quirks made sense. Then I read the Five Love Languages of Children by the same author. I would suggest these book for anyone who deals closely with...well anyone.
The basic principle of the Five Love Languages is that there are only 5 ways universally that people give and receive love. Each person speaks one or two of these languages better than the others, and the love languages can really help in relating with people you love.
The first Language I mentioned was Physical Touch. Some people really thrive off a literal pat on the back or a hug, while others (like me) cringe at the thought of being touched (although I will hug back if hugged and not cringe, I promise!) This doesn't make either person more or less normal, it just speaks differently to each person.
The second Language I mentioned was Giving and Receiving Gifts. I enjoy this one. However, I also realize that some people get nothing out of being given a gift.
The third Language is Acts of Service. Basically, some people like to serve others and be served (maybe doing dishes or yard work for people) and some people get nothing out of it.
The fourth Language is Quality Time. I think this is self-explanatory.
The fifth Language is Words of Affirmation. Some people thrive on compliments, some don't.
So what does this have to do with children's ministry? Simply put, while speaking a child's love language can make them feel great, using their love language against them can really hurt a child. The child whose love language is quality time may do great with one on one time with a caring adult when they are having behavioral problems, but completely isolating them could cause major problems. Also, speak the language sincerely. Compliments just to compliment or gifts as a bribe are not speaking a love language.
If you haven't Read The Five Love Languages of Children, I would highly suggest it. This week, be thinking about those difficult children you work with and see if you can figure out their love language. Maybe it will help.
Friday, June 3, 2011
How Does Your Classroom Look To A Preschooler?
Yesterday while I was in the grocery store I was watching a very friendly preschooler wander the store with his mom. As I looked I began to observe what the world of grocery shopping must look like from his 2nd shelf viewpoint. It was an interesting vantage point as I saw tons of brightly colored boxes and all sorts of exciting looking food. I don't think the marketing is an accident. I watched him get excited about "juice" (orange soda) and other great junk food.
Then I started thinking about our churches. From a toddlers view, how does your church add up? Does your children's area look like fun? Is it overwhelming? Big murals and too many decorations can make focus really difficult. Is it safe? Look for outlets and other safety hazards.
I hope your ministry area is safe and exciting for the preschoolers in your ministry.
Then I started thinking about our churches. From a toddlers view, how does your church add up? Does your children's area look like fun? Is it overwhelming? Big murals and too many decorations can make focus really difficult. Is it safe? Look for outlets and other safety hazards.
I hope your ministry area is safe and exciting for the preschoolers in your ministry.
Friday, May 27, 2011
Trip Day 6
Today was a crazy day! We woke up at 7:30 because, well because we wanted to be ready for continental breakfast,which we decided against eating. Instead we went to Denny's (again). Casey drove through Oklahoma City (and did a great job even though it scared her!) and we didn't stop until it was time for lunch. We had great Mexican food. I had probably my last chili rellano for awhile, since I've yet to find one made right in Georgia.
Then we decided that just driving was boring. First we tried a detour to get away from interstate driving, but found a toll road instead and decided that our entertainment wasn't worth the two dollar toll. We were amazed by how many towns advertised that you could visit celebrity homes. Instead we got back on the road until we saw an advertisement for the Honey Springs Civil War Battlefield. It was great, although we passed a massive snake in the road that's colors indicated that I probably didn't want to come face to face without my car. The battlefield was cool and then we headed back for the interstate.
We went through a Nature Preserve with mostly birds. Casey did see a massive snake hope it wasn't poisonous and we saw a few deer. Honestly, it wasn't what we expected, but it was cool.
For dinner we had sandwiches. Great food, but we were starting to get tired. We visited a lake and walked around a park. Casey noticed a sign saying there were gators, but because we were walking separately I didn't notice, so I walked a little farther. Didn't see any gators, although I am a football fan of Florida, I have no desire to meet one face to face.
We got to the hotel early because of fear of a repeat of last night. It gave us some time to chill out and get a swim in the hotel pool. We have 2 days until we are home and although we've enjoyed the time, I think we will both be ready to get back to Georgia.
Then we decided that just driving was boring. First we tried a detour to get away from interstate driving, but found a toll road instead and decided that our entertainment wasn't worth the two dollar toll. We were amazed by how many towns advertised that you could visit celebrity homes. Instead we got back on the road until we saw an advertisement for the Honey Springs Civil War Battlefield. It was great, although we passed a massive snake in the road that's colors indicated that I probably didn't want to come face to face without my car. The battlefield was cool and then we headed back for the interstate.
We went through a Nature Preserve with mostly birds. Casey did see a massive snake hope it wasn't poisonous and we saw a few deer. Honestly, it wasn't what we expected, but it was cool.
For dinner we had sandwiches. Great food, but we were starting to get tired. We visited a lake and walked around a park. Casey noticed a sign saying there were gators, but because we were walking separately I didn't notice, so I walked a little farther. Didn't see any gators, although I am a football fan of Florida, I have no desire to meet one face to face.
We got to the hotel early because of fear of a repeat of last night. It gave us some time to chill out and get a swim in the hotel pool. We have 2 days until we are home and although we've enjoyed the time, I think we will both be ready to get back to Georgia.
Thursday, May 26, 2011
Trip Home Part 5
What a day! We started out around 10 this morning and headed to Old Town Albuquerque. We had fun wandering around and got some shopping done, then decided to get back on the road. Casey was amazed at the road construction that took us driving on the wrong side of the freeway (not against traffic).
Today was mostly driving, but we did have a small adventure in Santa Rosa. After lunch we were curious about what the "Blue Hole" was. The map looked like it was down one road, but after driving for awhile, we turned around. We made more and more speculations about what this "hole" could be (ranging from an old broken down building to an empty swimming pool). We discovered that the "Blue Hole" was actually just off the main road. Admittedly, it was cool. It's an 81 feet deep swimming hole that people can dive to the bottom. We didn't really hang around because it seemed to be more of a local hang out, but still, it was cool.
Finding a hotel tonight was a little difficult, which makes me a little nervous about our plan of attack for the next two nights. We don't know where we are stopping,so we really don't know where to make hotel reservations. Instead, we are setting a time to start looking for a hotel each night. Tomorrow will be much earlier because we have realized that Memorial Day weekend will make rooms a little more pricy and also harder to find.
If you could, I would appreciate prayers that we would find a room tomorrow.
Today was mostly driving, but we did have a small adventure in Santa Rosa. After lunch we were curious about what the "Blue Hole" was. The map looked like it was down one road, but after driving for awhile, we turned around. We made more and more speculations about what this "hole" could be (ranging from an old broken down building to an empty swimming pool). We discovered that the "Blue Hole" was actually just off the main road. Admittedly, it was cool. It's an 81 feet deep swimming hole that people can dive to the bottom. We didn't really hang around because it seemed to be more of a local hang out, but still, it was cool.
Finding a hotel tonight was a little difficult, which makes me a little nervous about our plan of attack for the next two nights. We don't know where we are stopping,so we really don't know where to make hotel reservations. Instead, we are setting a time to start looking for a hotel each night. Tomorrow will be much earlier because we have realized that Memorial Day weekend will make rooms a little more pricy and also harder to find.
If you could, I would appreciate prayers that we would find a room tomorrow.
Wednesday, May 25, 2011
Trip Day 4
Last night we stayed in a great motel on Route 66. Besides the bathroom window not locking (which Casey fixed) it was a great room.
This morning we woke up early and headed for the road. We had a great breakfast at some little cafe and then headed towards Flagstaff. Because we had already done the Grand Canyon we decided to hike Lenox Trail at Sunset Crater. I had been given the suggestion by a friend. It was a killer, straight up .5 mile hike. I got pictures in progression going up because honestly, I needed the breaks. For my friends, I'm sure pictures will be posted on Facebook sometime after the trip. This hike is not for the faint of heart, and usually we would qualify as ones who may have given up, except that the National Park Service charges money. So, we made it to the top, and it was so worth it. The view was amazing. Casey fell in love with the snow capped mountain accross from the volcano which seemed to follow her from the flight to Vegas and throughout today. It even seemed to say goodbye when we drove away.
Then we headed towards the Painted Desert. I had studied the map, and because I wanted to spend more time there, decided to take a scenic route. This is very bad with a hungry sister. However, after we got snacks, we were good. Casey admitted it was beautiful, and when we stumbled upon the majesty of the desert, it was well worth it. Finally, we got some Subway (the only thing around) around 3. We headed to the Petrified Forest, which was beautiful. After that we began heading toward the New Mexico line, finally stopping for dinner and the night.
It's been an amazing trip, and despite a few minor disagreements, we are getting along great.
This morning we woke up early and headed for the road. We had a great breakfast at some little cafe and then headed towards Flagstaff. Because we had already done the Grand Canyon we decided to hike Lenox Trail at Sunset Crater. I had been given the suggestion by a friend. It was a killer, straight up .5 mile hike. I got pictures in progression going up because honestly, I needed the breaks. For my friends, I'm sure pictures will be posted on Facebook sometime after the trip. This hike is not for the faint of heart, and usually we would qualify as ones who may have given up, except that the National Park Service charges money. So, we made it to the top, and it was so worth it. The view was amazing. Casey fell in love with the snow capped mountain accross from the volcano which seemed to follow her from the flight to Vegas and throughout today. It even seemed to say goodbye when we drove away.
Then we headed towards the Painted Desert. I had studied the map, and because I wanted to spend more time there, decided to take a scenic route. This is very bad with a hungry sister. However, after we got snacks, we were good. Casey admitted it was beautiful, and when we stumbled upon the majesty of the desert, it was well worth it. Finally, we got some Subway (the only thing around) around 3. We headed to the Petrified Forest, which was beautiful. After that we began heading toward the New Mexico line, finally stopping for dinner and the night.
It's been an amazing trip, and despite a few minor disagreements, we are getting along great.
Tuesday, May 24, 2011
Trip Home Days 2 and 3
Life has gotten much more interesting over the past 2 days of traveling. My day yesterday began with my Mom calling to inform me that my sister left her phone in the car, and wouldn't have it at the airport. We were able to meet up as she came out of baggage claim and everything went smoothly even though we were both a little worried.
I suggested lunch at Sweet Tomatoes knowing that my sister loves salad and hadn't had it before. It was amazing! Then we checked into the Imperial Palace on the Vegas Strip. We had a great night walking around Fremont Street and then exploring the Casino. My sisters take on Vegas-it was all right but nothing special.
This morning we left early and had breakfast at the Egg & I in Vegas and then went to Hoover Dam. Casey absolutely loved taking pictures of the dam. It was fun to see her reaction, and although I've been there before, I have to confess, it still takes my breathe away! When we were leaving the dam, I asked Casey if she wanted to drive. I was proud of her, to drive she had to get out of a parking garage (a first for her) and navigate over the bridge, which isn't so crowded now that the bypass is open, but was still full of tourists. We got past the bridge and up the road just in time to find it closed. Casey was wonderful as she turned around and came back the bypass.
We decided to head toward the Grand Canyon. Although my first thought was to go to Flagstaff and go to the Canyon there, after we had gone a little ways we decided to go to Grand Canyon West. We had to backtrack about 3 miles, but it was worth it. On the way we decided we needed some lunch and spotted a little place called Davis Ranch Restaurant. The food was amazing and we started driving....and driving...and then the road turned to dirt....and stayed dirt...for 14 miles.
Eventually, we got to the reservation land where we wanted to take the Skywalk. This is a big feat for my sister who was terrified of heights and I have to admit, the idea of being 4000 feet above the canyon was intimidating. However, you have to pay for the tour and the skywalk, so it was a pricey undertaking. We got to the Walk and took a lot of pictures and then it was time for the moment of truth. Casey started out incredibly shaky, but about halfway through she really got into it. We even had our picture taken (another marketing ploy, no cameras allowed on the Skywalk). Truthfully it was a lot of money, but worth it to watch Casey conquer her fear, and I have to admit it was beautiful. I've never seen the Canyon before, but we both agreed that we were really glad that we saw a part of the Canyon that most people don't go to.
Tonight we spend the night in a motel on Route 66...more when we get internet again...
I suggested lunch at Sweet Tomatoes knowing that my sister loves salad and hadn't had it before. It was amazing! Then we checked into the Imperial Palace on the Vegas Strip. We had a great night walking around Fremont Street and then exploring the Casino. My sisters take on Vegas-it was all right but nothing special.
This morning we left early and had breakfast at the Egg & I in Vegas and then went to Hoover Dam. Casey absolutely loved taking pictures of the dam. It was fun to see her reaction, and although I've been there before, I have to confess, it still takes my breathe away! When we were leaving the dam, I asked Casey if she wanted to drive. I was proud of her, to drive she had to get out of a parking garage (a first for her) and navigate over the bridge, which isn't so crowded now that the bypass is open, but was still full of tourists. We got past the bridge and up the road just in time to find it closed. Casey was wonderful as she turned around and came back the bypass.
We decided to head toward the Grand Canyon. Although my first thought was to go to Flagstaff and go to the Canyon there, after we had gone a little ways we decided to go to Grand Canyon West. We had to backtrack about 3 miles, but it was worth it. On the way we decided we needed some lunch and spotted a little place called Davis Ranch Restaurant. The food was amazing and we started driving....and driving...and then the road turned to dirt....and stayed dirt...for 14 miles.
Eventually, we got to the reservation land where we wanted to take the Skywalk. This is a big feat for my sister who was terrified of heights and I have to admit, the idea of being 4000 feet above the canyon was intimidating. However, you have to pay for the tour and the skywalk, so it was a pricey undertaking. We got to the Walk and took a lot of pictures and then it was time for the moment of truth. Casey started out incredibly shaky, but about halfway through she really got into it. We even had our picture taken (another marketing ploy, no cameras allowed on the Skywalk). Truthfully it was a lot of money, but worth it to watch Casey conquer her fear, and I have to admit it was beautiful. I've never seen the Canyon before, but we both agreed that we were really glad that we saw a part of the Canyon that most people don't go to.
Tonight we spend the night in a motel on Route 66...more when we get internet again...
Sunday, May 22, 2011
Trip Home Part 1
I know this is a kids ministry blog, but my aunt asked for us to do a travel journal, so I hope you don't mind. Tomorrow my sister joins me and the photography will begin. Perhaps we will share some.
Today I left after church. There were a lot of people to say goodbye too and I know I will miss them all.
After a quick stop at Walgreens for ice and drinks I headed out. I was very excited when I got to Fernley and gas was $3.83. The things that make people excited, I know. My stop for tonight is a place affectionately called by Nevada Baptists "equally inconvenient for all."
As much as people complain about the drive to Vegas, the first 4 hours really wasn't bad. I enjoyed the sites, and Nevada still takes my breath away. I was very excited when I made it here and only used a little less than half a tank of gas, and when I saw the gas prices on the outskirts of town I inwardly groaned, even though I had expected it to be much more expensive. Taking advice from someone, I'm not sure who, I decided to ride into town and see if I could get a better price. Considering we are in the middle of nowhere and they could honestly probably charge anything, I was thrilled when in town it was only $3.95.
Really, I haven't done much since I got here, mostly because I needed to catch up on some things before this trip really began. So I ate at the hotel, basking in typical Nevada's hotel, casino, and places to eat.
Admittedly, this first leg wasn't overly exciting, but I promise it will get better from here, considering Vegas is next on the list.
Today I left after church. There were a lot of people to say goodbye too and I know I will miss them all.
After a quick stop at Walgreens for ice and drinks I headed out. I was very excited when I got to Fernley and gas was $3.83. The things that make people excited, I know. My stop for tonight is a place affectionately called by Nevada Baptists "equally inconvenient for all."
As much as people complain about the drive to Vegas, the first 4 hours really wasn't bad. I enjoyed the sites, and Nevada still takes my breath away. I was very excited when I made it here and only used a little less than half a tank of gas, and when I saw the gas prices on the outskirts of town I inwardly groaned, even though I had expected it to be much more expensive. Taking advice from someone, I'm not sure who, I decided to ride into town and see if I could get a better price. Considering we are in the middle of nowhere and they could honestly probably charge anything, I was thrilled when in town it was only $3.95.
Really, I haven't done much since I got here, mostly because I needed to catch up on some things before this trip really began. So I ate at the hotel, basking in typical Nevada's hotel, casino, and places to eat.
Admittedly, this first leg wasn't overly exciting, but I promise it will get better from here, considering Vegas is next on the list.
Thursday, May 19, 2011
Calling All Pastors!
Pastors, I know VBS week is a crazy week in your church. Some of you, I'm sure enjoy kids and some of you would rather avoid them. I'm really not judging you on that, we all have different callings and not everyone is called to work with kids. However, think of VBS as an opportunity for you as a pastor to connect with the kids (and families) in your church.
Especially if your children have children's church throughout the entire weekly service, you probably don't have much opportunity to work with the children in your ministry. VBS is a great opportunity to connect with the children. In most churched children's minds, a pastor is a real hero. Imagine the excitement in a child's mind when Pastor __________ comes to visit his classroom.
Also, participating in VBS gives you a chance to connect with unchurched families who may have ended up in your church for VBS. What an opportunity to connect!
Finally, statisically, VBS is the most evangelical event of a churches year. Why would you avoid the opportunity to share Christ in that setting? I think maybe sharing Christ with children is more intimidating because we realize that children think differently than adults (and sometimes ask harder questions). If your worried about this, consider taking a children and salvation class (or if you don't have time, you can read my blog on Salvation Day).
Allowing the kids to get to know you may also help kids when they transition to services. It's a little scary leaving children's church, but a familiar face in the pulpit is helpful for the kids.
The work is worth it when you consider the eternal value of VBS. Pastors, I know you are busy, but I truly believe that VBS is well worth the investment.
I would really appreciate your feedback on this, even if you disagree with me.
Especially if your children have children's church throughout the entire weekly service, you probably don't have much opportunity to work with the children in your ministry. VBS is a great opportunity to connect with the children. In most churched children's minds, a pastor is a real hero. Imagine the excitement in a child's mind when Pastor __________ comes to visit his classroom.
Also, participating in VBS gives you a chance to connect with unchurched families who may have ended up in your church for VBS. What an opportunity to connect!
Finally, statisically, VBS is the most evangelical event of a churches year. Why would you avoid the opportunity to share Christ in that setting? I think maybe sharing Christ with children is more intimidating because we realize that children think differently than adults (and sometimes ask harder questions). If your worried about this, consider taking a children and salvation class (or if you don't have time, you can read my blog on Salvation Day).
Allowing the kids to get to know you may also help kids when they transition to services. It's a little scary leaving children's church, but a familiar face in the pulpit is helpful for the kids.
The work is worth it when you consider the eternal value of VBS. Pastors, I know you are busy, but I truly believe that VBS is well worth the investment.
I would really appreciate your feedback on this, even if you disagree with me.
Monday, May 16, 2011
Transitions
Do you ever have those times where life seems to take off and all you can do is hold on? That has been the past 2 weeks (and probably the next 2 weeks) of my life. Hmm...Seems like the whole month of May, huh?
The first week of May I got to spend some time with my Aunt Judy and Grandma, who were in town. We had a great time seeing the sites and enjoying each others company. Between downtown Reno, Carson City, Genoa, Virginia City, and Lake Tahoe, my car got a lot of miles, but it was great.
My plan was to get back to work last week, but God had other plans. I ended up going back to Georgia for a funeral (and no time to write). Unexpected family time was great and I got to discover a little more about my family.
Now I'm down to week 3 of May...and what to say. I've got two big events happening right now. First of all, Friday night is the SBA VBS Clinic. I'm very excited and think it will be a great time. Then Sunday I begin a week long road trip moving back to Georgia with my sister.
It's been a crazy month and May is forcing me to dig deep into the emotional side of me and see what God has in store.
As I look at spending 2 months in Georgia and then beginning a new phase in New Orleans, I face a lot of sadness about leaving some great friends in Nevada, and excitement and anxiousness about the future.
The first week of May I got to spend some time with my Aunt Judy and Grandma, who were in town. We had a great time seeing the sites and enjoying each others company. Between downtown Reno, Carson City, Genoa, Virginia City, and Lake Tahoe, my car got a lot of miles, but it was great.
My plan was to get back to work last week, but God had other plans. I ended up going back to Georgia for a funeral (and no time to write). Unexpected family time was great and I got to discover a little more about my family.
Now I'm down to week 3 of May...and what to say. I've got two big events happening right now. First of all, Friday night is the SBA VBS Clinic. I'm very excited and think it will be a great time. Then Sunday I begin a week long road trip moving back to Georgia with my sister.
It's been a crazy month and May is forcing me to dig deep into the emotional side of me and see what God has in store.
As I look at spending 2 months in Georgia and then beginning a new phase in New Orleans, I face a lot of sadness about leaving some great friends in Nevada, and excitement and anxiousness about the future.
Thursday, April 28, 2011
Heaven Is For Real
I recently read the book "Heaven is for Real" by Todd Burpo.
The book is about Colton Burpo, a little boy who went to Heaven during an emergency appendix surgery. I was drawn (although rather skeptically) to this book because of the idea of a preschool perspective of Heaven. The book is a simple read, and as I was reading it I noticed a few things that pertained to children's ministry.
First, Todd Burpo speaks extensively about he and his wife's parenting approach. He speaks often of stories that he had shared with his son. He also spoke extensively about his attempts to not lead Colton into giving the answers that Todd wanted. This gave some great children's ministry pointers.
Second, Todd Burpo talks about how his church has changed their children's ministry. Colton kept telling his parents that "Jesus really, really loves the children." This revolutionized the way they recruited for children's ministry. Instead of half-heartedly asking for help, the church now works hard to encourage people to serve the children in the church. I believe strongly that some people are not called to children's ministry, but I also think often we take excuses way too easily.
I am really not qualified to talk about comfort for women who have lost children through miscarriages, but in the book Colton talks about meeting a little sister who died after 2 months in the womb. As he describes his sister, and later in the book as his dad shares with other people who have lost children, I wonder if this wouldn't be a good read to encourage someone who has lost a child.
If you get a chance, I would strongly suggest that you read this book.
The book is about Colton Burpo, a little boy who went to Heaven during an emergency appendix surgery. I was drawn (although rather skeptically) to this book because of the idea of a preschool perspective of Heaven. The book is a simple read, and as I was reading it I noticed a few things that pertained to children's ministry.
First, Todd Burpo speaks extensively about he and his wife's parenting approach. He speaks often of stories that he had shared with his son. He also spoke extensively about his attempts to not lead Colton into giving the answers that Todd wanted. This gave some great children's ministry pointers.
Second, Todd Burpo talks about how his church has changed their children's ministry. Colton kept telling his parents that "Jesus really, really loves the children." This revolutionized the way they recruited for children's ministry. Instead of half-heartedly asking for help, the church now works hard to encourage people to serve the children in the church. I believe strongly that some people are not called to children's ministry, but I also think often we take excuses way too easily.
Now when I ran into those same excuses (for not doing children's ministry), I lovingly remind people that Jesus clearly viewed children as precious-and that if He loved kids enough to say that adults should be more like them, we should be spending more time loving them too. Todd Burpo, 107.
I am really not qualified to talk about comfort for women who have lost children through miscarriages, but in the book Colton talks about meeting a little sister who died after 2 months in the womb. As he describes his sister, and later in the book as his dad shares with other people who have lost children, I wonder if this wouldn't be a good read to encourage someone who has lost a child.
If you get a chance, I would strongly suggest that you read this book.
Wednesday, April 27, 2011
6-2 Rule
We know that our children's ministry goal is to grow children spiritually, emotionally, physically and intellectually. As we achieve this goal, we need to make sure that our children's area is a safe,secure place. Sadly, I've heard many people call churches the last frontier for predators. Schools and most other organizations are beefing up security to keep predators out. However, due to ignorance and often trusting God to protect us, many times our churches fall flat on the security issue.
All to often we think of churches as having a big God-bubble around us that will protect us. I believe strongly that God wants to protect His children and that He does reward due diligence.
Some call it the 62 rule, some call it the 6-2 rule, some call it the 2-6 rule, and some call it the 26 rule. It really doesn't matter what it's called, it needs to implemented in your church.
What is the 6-2 rule? Simply put it's a simple way to provide safety and security when it comes to volunteers in your ministry.
First, volunteers should be members of the church for at least 6 months before working in the children's department. Typically, a predator will not hang around your church for 6 months waiting to get at your kids. They tend to hop from place to place seeking a church with quick access to children.
When you allow volunteers to join your children's ministry, please use an application process and get background checks on potential volunteers. Keep a file on all your volunteers and your children's director. This shows your volunteers, parents, and authorities that your church is serious about keeping kids safe.
Now that 6 is covered, what does 2 mean? 2 means that you should NEVER have less than 2 volunteers in a room alone with children. Also, married couples count as one person. The reason for this is that legally a spouse cannot testify against their spouse in court. 2 adults in the room protect the children, but it also protects an adult from being accused of something that she/he didn't do.
A few other suggestions to make sure you don't set yourself up for suspicion. If taking a child to the bathroom, make sure you are never alone in the bathroom with him/her. I try to stand outside the bathroom door if at all possible. If you do find yourself in a position where you are the only adult in the room with children, keep the door open. This prevents any speculation or false accusation.
I know many people are probably reading this and rolling their eyes. It seems like excess, and I pray that you are never in a position where you or someone in your church is being accused of child abuse during services. However, if it happens, your church needs to be able to prove that it did everything it could to prevent the situation from happening. The 6-2 rule along with keeping a file on each volunteer with applications, background checks, and reports on any situation that may occur will help your church to prove in court that you did everything possible to protect the children in your ministry.
Sadly, there are many stories of churches that did not try to protect their kids and volunteers. After the person accused of child abuse was prosecuted, the families often sued the church, and possibly the association and state convention for not taking due diligence. Please don't get yourself in this situation!
Why does this matter?
As a church we want to protect all of our children. We also want to do as much as we can to protect our volunteers from being suspected of evil.
All to often we think of churches as having a big God-bubble around us that will protect us. I believe strongly that God wants to protect His children and that He does reward due diligence.
Some call it the 62 rule, some call it the 6-2 rule, some call it the 2-6 rule, and some call it the 26 rule. It really doesn't matter what it's called, it needs to implemented in your church.
What is the 6-2 rule? Simply put it's a simple way to provide safety and security when it comes to volunteers in your ministry.
First, volunteers should be members of the church for at least 6 months before working in the children's department. Typically, a predator will not hang around your church for 6 months waiting to get at your kids. They tend to hop from place to place seeking a church with quick access to children.
When you allow volunteers to join your children's ministry, please use an application process and get background checks on potential volunteers. Keep a file on all your volunteers and your children's director. This shows your volunteers, parents, and authorities that your church is serious about keeping kids safe.
Now that 6 is covered, what does 2 mean? 2 means that you should NEVER have less than 2 volunteers in a room alone with children. Also, married couples count as one person. The reason for this is that legally a spouse cannot testify against their spouse in court. 2 adults in the room protect the children, but it also protects an adult from being accused of something that she/he didn't do.
A few other suggestions to make sure you don't set yourself up for suspicion. If taking a child to the bathroom, make sure you are never alone in the bathroom with him/her. I try to stand outside the bathroom door if at all possible. If you do find yourself in a position where you are the only adult in the room with children, keep the door open. This prevents any speculation or false accusation.
I know many people are probably reading this and rolling their eyes. It seems like excess, and I pray that you are never in a position where you or someone in your church is being accused of child abuse during services. However, if it happens, your church needs to be able to prove that it did everything it could to prevent the situation from happening. The 6-2 rule along with keeping a file on each volunteer with applications, background checks, and reports on any situation that may occur will help your church to prove in court that you did everything possible to protect the children in your ministry.
Sadly, there are many stories of churches that did not try to protect their kids and volunteers. After the person accused of child abuse was prosecuted, the families often sued the church, and possibly the association and state convention for not taking due diligence. Please don't get yourself in this situation!
Why does this matter?
As a church we want to protect all of our children. We also want to do as much as we can to protect our volunteers from being suspected of evil.
Tuesday, April 26, 2011
Modeling Modesty
It seems like everyone is talking about kids and modesty these days. Everything from chain stores marketing push-up bras to CNN stories on "dressing kids like tramps" (their word, not mine!). As children's leaders I think we need to double check how we dress as well.
Sunday I did something I rarely do. I wore a dress to church. The dress was perfectly modest, it fell just above the knee and was sleeveless. The neckline was high enough that the lack of sleeves was not a problem. Although it had a jacket to go with it, the jacket didn't stay on because it got hot. Typically I don't wear dresses because in the children's ministry area it's a little harder to bend and move in a dress. Not impossible, but harder. However, I was preparing to work with older children, so I decided it was okay. Besides, it was Easter. The whole southern "dress up on Easter" is still slightly ingrained in my head. I got through the first service with no problem. Then before second service I was asked to keep the nursery. The preschool teachers were a little late, so I ended up with 5 preschoolers and 2 toddlers in a room. The preschoolers knew they were in the "baby room," and let me tell you, they weren't happy! So the children's director did what every good teacher does, pulled out the Cheerios.
If you know anything about this age group, food tastes so much better off the floor and the nursery has no place to sit down and eat. I ended up picking up piles of cheerios off the floor. At this point I was beginning to wish I was wearing pants. Between comforting a screaming toddler when her cousin got to go to the preschool room, leaving her behind, and trying to get the cereal before it was totally ground into the carpet, I was doing a lot of moving and bending. It wasn't a major problem, but I was glad I had selected a slightly longer "Easter dress."
Am I saying a dress is bad for the nursery? No. Not at all. As long as it's modest.
When you are preparing to teach in the children's ministry, consider your clothes. Children make clothing more of a challenge because they tend to pull on clothes, sometimes making something that is appropriate seem a little, ummm... inappropriate. I'm not saying don't dress nicely. I'm just asking that you make sure that the way that you dress doesn't make working with children harder on you.
Ask yourself some questions as you dress for children's ministry.
First, what will the temperature be like? My church's sanctuary is usually freezing, but the children's area is a sauna. Mix that with movement and you can get pretty hot. Make sure that whatever you are wearing will make you comfortable.
Second, am I covered, and will I stay covered? Try doing the "Hallelujah test." If you can raise your hands all the way and not show your midriff, you are probably okay. Bend over to make sure that nothing sneaks out in the front or back when you are bending to pick up a child. Are your skirts long enough that you can bend over or sit on the floor without revealing anything?
Thirdly, can I move and be comfortable in what I'm wearing? Children's ministry usually involves a lot of activity. Can you jump and move without having to worry about "wardrobe malfunction?" If the baby your holding pulls on your shirt, will everything be displayed?
Fourthly, would I be okay seeing one of the kids I work with wearing my outfit? Lately the CNN article "Parent's Don't Dress Your Girls Like Tramps" has brought a lot of attention to how kids dress. Be an example of a better way, especially to your preteen girls! They have a lot of messages being thrown at them! Kids love their favorite teachers, and we don't want to send a message that wearing something is okay if it's not. Think, would I want to see the girls in my class wearing clothes like this?
I'm not asking you to walk around in high neck clothes and dresses to your knees. Honestly, an appropriate tank top won't be a problem if it fits and doesn't show too much. The same is true with skirts. We are sending messages to children with everything we say and do. Please don't let your clothes be a stumbling block for a little one.
Sunday I did something I rarely do. I wore a dress to church. The dress was perfectly modest, it fell just above the knee and was sleeveless. The neckline was high enough that the lack of sleeves was not a problem. Although it had a jacket to go with it, the jacket didn't stay on because it got hot. Typically I don't wear dresses because in the children's ministry area it's a little harder to bend and move in a dress. Not impossible, but harder. However, I was preparing to work with older children, so I decided it was okay. Besides, it was Easter. The whole southern "dress up on Easter" is still slightly ingrained in my head. I got through the first service with no problem. Then before second service I was asked to keep the nursery. The preschool teachers were a little late, so I ended up with 5 preschoolers and 2 toddlers in a room. The preschoolers knew they were in the "baby room," and let me tell you, they weren't happy! So the children's director did what every good teacher does, pulled out the Cheerios.
If you know anything about this age group, food tastes so much better off the floor and the nursery has no place to sit down and eat. I ended up picking up piles of cheerios off the floor. At this point I was beginning to wish I was wearing pants. Between comforting a screaming toddler when her cousin got to go to the preschool room, leaving her behind, and trying to get the cereal before it was totally ground into the carpet, I was doing a lot of moving and bending. It wasn't a major problem, but I was glad I had selected a slightly longer "Easter dress."
Am I saying a dress is bad for the nursery? No. Not at all. As long as it's modest.
When you are preparing to teach in the children's ministry, consider your clothes. Children make clothing more of a challenge because they tend to pull on clothes, sometimes making something that is appropriate seem a little, ummm... inappropriate. I'm not saying don't dress nicely. I'm just asking that you make sure that the way that you dress doesn't make working with children harder on you.
Ask yourself some questions as you dress for children's ministry.
First, what will the temperature be like? My church's sanctuary is usually freezing, but the children's area is a sauna. Mix that with movement and you can get pretty hot. Make sure that whatever you are wearing will make you comfortable.
Second, am I covered, and will I stay covered? Try doing the "Hallelujah test." If you can raise your hands all the way and not show your midriff, you are probably okay. Bend over to make sure that nothing sneaks out in the front or back when you are bending to pick up a child. Are your skirts long enough that you can bend over or sit on the floor without revealing anything?
Thirdly, can I move and be comfortable in what I'm wearing? Children's ministry usually involves a lot of activity. Can you jump and move without having to worry about "wardrobe malfunction?" If the baby your holding pulls on your shirt, will everything be displayed?
Fourthly, would I be okay seeing one of the kids I work with wearing my outfit? Lately the CNN article "Parent's Don't Dress Your Girls Like Tramps" has brought a lot of attention to how kids dress. Be an example of a better way, especially to your preteen girls! They have a lot of messages being thrown at them! Kids love their favorite teachers, and we don't want to send a message that wearing something is okay if it's not. Think, would I want to see the girls in my class wearing clothes like this?
I'm not asking you to walk around in high neck clothes and dresses to your knees. Honestly, an appropriate tank top won't be a problem if it fits and doesn't show too much. The same is true with skirts. We are sending messages to children with everything we say and do. Please don't let your clothes be a stumbling block for a little one.
Thursday, April 21, 2011
Mission Teams: We Want You Back....But...
It's happened to anyone who has taken a mission trip. We go, we work, we fall in love with the place. Then that special kid, or person you met, or whoever asks the question, "are you coming back?" God has really given you a great time on this trip, and you've had fun and really developed a heart for the place, so you say, "yes! I'll be back next summer!"
What's wrong with this picture.....well....fast forward into the future.
You really did have a great time, and you'd love to come back....but...
God opened a door for another trip and you feel led to go...so you don't go back.
Your church decides to go somewhere else next year and there is no trip...so you don't go back.
The excitement of the week fades and although you have fond memories...you don't go back.
Life gets busy...you didn't realize you needed that summer school class...you get a new job and don't have vacation time...you don't go back.
You get sick...you don't go back.
Meanwhile, somewhere there is a kid asking the missionary or leader in her church, when is ____________ coming back.
Mission teams, let me be clear...as missionaries we LOVE having you come and help us out. There is a lot of progress that can be made when a mission team comes. Your heartstrings are pulled, and hopefully you will pray, keep in touch, and come back. However, you don't know your future. God may be calling you to do work somewhere else or life may happen. That's okay.
Please, when you take a mission trip, don't make a promise to be back the next time, because there may not be a next time. You can say I want to come back. You can even say I might come back. But, please don't promise to come back.
Let me give you an example from the other side. I took some kids somewhere a few days ago. The girl asked if I would be here for VBS. I said no, I had to leave before then. She said, "okay, I really liked __________, will she be back?" "No," I said, "I heard she was going to _________." "Okay then, will __________ be back?" "No, she moved somewhere else. She doesn't go to that church anymore." In this case I knew where the people were and what they were doing, but I don't always know.
This went on for quite awhile as my heart broke for the girl. She doesn't understand that things come up. She only understands that someone made a promise that they didn't keep. Don't get me wrong, she will have a good time at VBS. Maybe a mission team will come, maybe not. If they don't that's okay. If they do, will someone else accidentally break a promise?
Let me be clear, I would LOVE to come back to Reno. Honestly, I would even LOVE to live here again. However, I don't know what God holds in my future. So when I get asked when I'm coming back, I say "I don't know. Hopefully someday."
What's wrong with this picture.....well....fast forward into the future.
You really did have a great time, and you'd love to come back....but...
God opened a door for another trip and you feel led to go...so you don't go back.
Your church decides to go somewhere else next year and there is no trip...so you don't go back.
The excitement of the week fades and although you have fond memories...you don't go back.
Life gets busy...you didn't realize you needed that summer school class...you get a new job and don't have vacation time...you don't go back.
You get sick...you don't go back.
Meanwhile, somewhere there is a kid asking the missionary or leader in her church, when is ____________ coming back.
Mission teams, let me be clear...as missionaries we LOVE having you come and help us out. There is a lot of progress that can be made when a mission team comes. Your heartstrings are pulled, and hopefully you will pray, keep in touch, and come back. However, you don't know your future. God may be calling you to do work somewhere else or life may happen. That's okay.
Please, when you take a mission trip, don't make a promise to be back the next time, because there may not be a next time. You can say I want to come back. You can even say I might come back. But, please don't promise to come back.
Let me give you an example from the other side. I took some kids somewhere a few days ago. The girl asked if I would be here for VBS. I said no, I had to leave before then. She said, "okay, I really liked __________, will she be back?" "No," I said, "I heard she was going to _________." "Okay then, will __________ be back?" "No, she moved somewhere else. She doesn't go to that church anymore." In this case I knew where the people were and what they were doing, but I don't always know.
This went on for quite awhile as my heart broke for the girl. She doesn't understand that things come up. She only understands that someone made a promise that they didn't keep. Don't get me wrong, she will have a good time at VBS. Maybe a mission team will come, maybe not. If they don't that's okay. If they do, will someone else accidentally break a promise?
Let me be clear, I would LOVE to come back to Reno. Honestly, I would even LOVE to live here again. However, I don't know what God holds in my future. So when I get asked when I'm coming back, I say "I don't know. Hopefully someday."
Update on the *Elaine Situation
A few weeks ago I told you about *Elaine, a girl who refused to speak to me. I had guessed that she was upset about me moving. I was right. After sending her a note, she started speaking to me again.
Since then I took her out for pizza once. She was very excited and it was a great time to talk and catch up.
Friday I took her and her brother on a "special trip" to the Jelly Belly Factory in Fairfield, California. It was a great time and Elaine had a lot of fun. She asked a bunch of questions and was really interested in a makeup compact that a friend left in my car years ago. I never think about it because it's in the passenger door and I'm just never in the passenger seat! She stared at the colors for most of the drive. Although they had both been to the factory multiple times, they enjoyed the tour. Several times Elaine said, "you haven't seen this before, so you can stand up front!" It was sweet. Elaine has a givers heart, and I was reminded of that several times. When she was given $5 to spend at the factory, she gave up a jawbreaker she really wanted to be able to buy something for her sister. After the factory we got in the car and headed through rush hour traffic to Chik-Fil-A, a place that neither of the kids had every been to before. It was exciting for them.
The reward of the trip for me came at church on Sunday when Elaine ran up and gave me a big hug! I am so glad that she had a great time, and now I think she knows that she can call me anytime!
Since then I took her out for pizza once. She was very excited and it was a great time to talk and catch up.
Friday I took her and her brother on a "special trip" to the Jelly Belly Factory in Fairfield, California. It was a great time and Elaine had a lot of fun. She asked a bunch of questions and was really interested in a makeup compact that a friend left in my car years ago. I never think about it because it's in the passenger door and I'm just never in the passenger seat! She stared at the colors for most of the drive. Although they had both been to the factory multiple times, they enjoyed the tour. Several times Elaine said, "you haven't seen this before, so you can stand up front!" It was sweet. Elaine has a givers heart, and I was reminded of that several times. When she was given $5 to spend at the factory, she gave up a jawbreaker she really wanted to be able to buy something for her sister. After the factory we got in the car and headed through rush hour traffic to Chik-Fil-A, a place that neither of the kids had every been to before. It was exciting for them.
The reward of the trip for me came at church on Sunday when Elaine ran up and gave me a big hug! I am so glad that she had a great time, and now I think she knows that she can call me anytime!
Wednesday, April 13, 2011
What To Do With Easter?
It's Easter Sunday. The kids are hyper because of the special day. Don't forget that you have a great opportunity. People go to church on Easter who will not go most Sundays. Also, it's a holiday centered around Christ rising from the dead!
First, egg hunts are not bad! However, if all you do while you have kids in your class on Easter Sunday is play and hunt eggs, you just missed an amazing opportunity to share Christ with kids who may never set foot in your class ever again.
Have a lesson and activities that point to the Salvation message. If you want, I wrote a previous post on Resurrection Eggs, a great way to share the message of Easter with kids. The kids will be excited to see what comes out of the next egg! See my previous post "Easter (and Annie) is Coming."
Don't forget to give kids the opportunity to respond to the salvation message! Keep the message simple and understandable, but always share the message!
I truly hope you will take the opportunity to invite people to church and share Christ this Easter.
First, egg hunts are not bad! However, if all you do while you have kids in your class on Easter Sunday is play and hunt eggs, you just missed an amazing opportunity to share Christ with kids who may never set foot in your class ever again.
Have a lesson and activities that point to the Salvation message. If you want, I wrote a previous post on Resurrection Eggs, a great way to share the message of Easter with kids. The kids will be excited to see what comes out of the next egg! See my previous post "Easter (and Annie) is Coming."
Don't forget to give kids the opportunity to respond to the salvation message! Keep the message simple and understandable, but always share the message!
I truly hope you will take the opportunity to invite people to church and share Christ this Easter.
VBS Salvation Day
It seems really early to be talking about VBS but I've got been in VBS mode for a few months now. I thought I'd talk a little about Salvation day.
The good news is Lifeway gives us an outline for Salvation Day. The ABC's give us a great opportunity to share Christ by using Admit, Believe, and Confess. Please don't forget to involve scripture as you share your ABC's.
"If you haven't committed your life to Jesus, you are lost. You need to be saved. If you would like to give your heart to Jesus then come forward and make a profession of faith."
Many of us have heard an invitation similar to the one above. Let me translate what a child hears. "Wait, what does commit mean? Oh yeah, I got lost in Walmart last year. It was scary. Wait, I thought he said I was lost, what's this talk about being saved? My daddy saved me when I climbed up in the tree last year and couldn't get down. Give my heart to Jesus, do I need surgery? Why does Jesus need my heart? Oh cool, I get to move now! We've been sitting a long time! Profession, I'm too young to work. My dad is a doctor.......
What we are communicating is not necessarily what we mean to communicate. I'm going to talk about some ways to make the invitation at VBS a little more understandable.
First, of all, involve your pastor in salvation day. If you have children's church your kids probably rarely get to see your pastor. Pastors are also the "hero" of the church in a child's mind. This is a great opportunity for him to really connect with the kids. Having said that, your pastor may need children and salvation training before presenting the message of salvation.
Secondly, watch your language. Instead of the invitation given earlier, I could have said something like: "We just talked about the ABC's, Admit, Believe, and Confess. If you have never trusted Jesus to forgive you and help you every day, then you can make that choice today. We talked about how everyone has sinned, and that the penalty for sin is death. God sent his Son Jesus to die so that we wouldn't have to be punished for our sins, but we have to make a choice to accept the gift God gave. When we trust Jesus to forgive us for the things we do that displease him, we can be saved when we commit to live for Jesus for the rest of our lives. If you want to talk to someone about trusting Jesus, you can _______________ (whatever your plan is to talk to children individually).
Avoid situations where children feel pressured to come forward (or not to come forward). Commitment cards are great ways for kids to express a desire for talking to someone about the salvation. Each child who makes a decision deserves to be talked to one on one. In a group setting you will always have a more outgoing kid dominate while you have no idea what the other child is thinking.
A few years ago I was helping out at a sports camp here in Reno. On salvation day I was counseling two girls, one who really was interested in salvation, another who really wanted to be near Miss. Jenn. It was really hard to share with the girl who was interested. Make sure you have enough volunteers ready to talk to kids who want to make a decision!
I hope this helps you as you think about salvation day this summer.
The good news is Lifeway gives us an outline for Salvation Day. The ABC's give us a great opportunity to share Christ by using Admit, Believe, and Confess. Please don't forget to involve scripture as you share your ABC's.
"If you haven't committed your life to Jesus, you are lost. You need to be saved. If you would like to give your heart to Jesus then come forward and make a profession of faith."
Many of us have heard an invitation similar to the one above. Let me translate what a child hears. "Wait, what does commit mean? Oh yeah, I got lost in Walmart last year. It was scary. Wait, I thought he said I was lost, what's this talk about being saved? My daddy saved me when I climbed up in the tree last year and couldn't get down. Give my heart to Jesus, do I need surgery? Why does Jesus need my heart? Oh cool, I get to move now! We've been sitting a long time! Profession, I'm too young to work. My dad is a doctor.......
What we are communicating is not necessarily what we mean to communicate. I'm going to talk about some ways to make the invitation at VBS a little more understandable.
First, of all, involve your pastor in salvation day. If you have children's church your kids probably rarely get to see your pastor. Pastors are also the "hero" of the church in a child's mind. This is a great opportunity for him to really connect with the kids. Having said that, your pastor may need children and salvation training before presenting the message of salvation.
Secondly, watch your language. Instead of the invitation given earlier, I could have said something like: "We just talked about the ABC's, Admit, Believe, and Confess. If you have never trusted Jesus to forgive you and help you every day, then you can make that choice today. We talked about how everyone has sinned, and that the penalty for sin is death. God sent his Son Jesus to die so that we wouldn't have to be punished for our sins, but we have to make a choice to accept the gift God gave. When we trust Jesus to forgive us for the things we do that displease him, we can be saved when we commit to live for Jesus for the rest of our lives. If you want to talk to someone about trusting Jesus, you can _______________ (whatever your plan is to talk to children individually).
Avoid situations where children feel pressured to come forward (or not to come forward). Commitment cards are great ways for kids to express a desire for talking to someone about the salvation. Each child who makes a decision deserves to be talked to one on one. In a group setting you will always have a more outgoing kid dominate while you have no idea what the other child is thinking.
A few years ago I was helping out at a sports camp here in Reno. On salvation day I was counseling two girls, one who really was interested in salvation, another who really wanted to be near Miss. Jenn. It was really hard to share with the girl who was interested. Make sure you have enough volunteers ready to talk to kids who want to make a decision!
I hope this helps you as you think about salvation day this summer.
Thursday, April 7, 2011
Donations: To Take or Not To Take?
Okay, I will be the first to admit that most of the time our church nursery/preschool budgets leave a lot to be desired. When church members are willing to donate things, our ministry is helped greatly.
However, we need to be careful when accepting donations. A toy or furniture that is falling apart is not acceptable for the nursery.
Here are some things to think about before accepting donations:
1. Is the item safe? Recently new regulations have been made that prevent the use of drop-side cribs. If you know it's been recalled, don't accept it! Also, glider rockers are considered more safe than traditional rockers because there isn't as much chance of a child hanging out under the leg of your rocker. Use common sense, your nursery should always be clean and safe.
2. Does the item have tears or missing parts? Hand me downs should be good quality. If something is torn it gives the impression to visitors that the nursery is unclean. Missing parts make for hazards.
3. Is the item clean? If it is stained or dirty, don't accept it! You want your nursery/preschool to be inviting!
3. Can it be cleaned and sanitized easily? Cloth and foam are nightmares to sanitize. Unless you want to spend all your time washing toys, don't bother. Speaking of which, seats for exersaucers and baby chairs are great, but they need to be washed often. Don't forget!
4. Does the item fit with your ministry goals? Educational books are good. So are Bible story books. However, if your church has a policy that only "christian" related books are accepted, considering rejecting the item.
Parents are looking for clean safe places to leave their kids. If it's not clean or safe, don't accept it!
However, we need to be careful when accepting donations. A toy or furniture that is falling apart is not acceptable for the nursery.
Here are some things to think about before accepting donations:
1. Is the item safe? Recently new regulations have been made that prevent the use of drop-side cribs. If you know it's been recalled, don't accept it! Also, glider rockers are considered more safe than traditional rockers because there isn't as much chance of a child hanging out under the leg of your rocker. Use common sense, your nursery should always be clean and safe.
2. Does the item have tears or missing parts? Hand me downs should be good quality. If something is torn it gives the impression to visitors that the nursery is unclean. Missing parts make for hazards.
3. Is the item clean? If it is stained or dirty, don't accept it! You want your nursery/preschool to be inviting!
3. Can it be cleaned and sanitized easily? Cloth and foam are nightmares to sanitize. Unless you want to spend all your time washing toys, don't bother. Speaking of which, seats for exersaucers and baby chairs are great, but they need to be washed often. Don't forget!
4. Does the item fit with your ministry goals? Educational books are good. So are Bible story books. However, if your church has a policy that only "christian" related books are accepted, considering rejecting the item.
Parents are looking for clean safe places to leave their kids. If it's not clean or safe, don't accept it!
Tuesday, April 5, 2011
The kids are escaping! Why Can't I Lock the Door?
"Suzie keeps running out of the room. What do I do?" Occassionally churches will have problems with children running out the door before the class is over. This can cause problems ranging from disrupting service to a child getting lost or hurt. We must do everything we can to protect the children in our ministries and a tempting solution is to lock the door. I have heard this discussed at several churches, so I thought I would address it.
Recently I was having a conversation with two other ladies. They were discussing volunteers wanting to lock the door to keep the kids inside. I had to laugh because we had three very different responses, but all three were very practical reasons to keep the door unlocked.
The first response was, "what if a teacher got hurt? No one could get to the kids." I believe strongly in the "two adult rule," that an adult should NEVER be alone with children in a ministry situation! More on that later. However, if something did happen and both teachers were injured, someone needs to be able to get into the room to help. A locked door prevents people from entering, but child safety door knobs give outside access without letting toddlers leave the room. A question was raised about the kids not being able to open the door in case of an emergency with the teacher. Great question. However, if you've been around enough kids, you know that if something were to happen, the kids would begin to scream and someone from the sanctuary or neighboring classes would hear them. If the door is unlocked someone from the outside can enter.
The second response was, "we don't want anyone to be accused of child abuse!" Once again, this is a valid concern. The two adult rule is so important here! An adult should never be alone with a child, to protect the children and the adult. Folks, it's time to get serious. God forbid you ever have to deal with child abuse in your church, however, you better be combating the issue before it happens. Well meaning volunteers can be put into a situation too easily where they are falsly accused of inappropriate behavior. Please don't give parents any opportunity to question your integrity! Secondly, no matter how much screening a church does, occassionally a person makes it through the screening process who should not be dealing with children. If you keep the doors unlocked (preferably with a window in the door as well) and keep two volunteers in the room, you eliminate opportunity for predators to have easy access to your children.
The third response was, "locking children in the room is against fire code!" The fire department requires that in case of fire all rooms be easily accessible. We do not want an emergency to happen and be slowed down getting out of the building.
When children are in our care, we have a great responsibility to take care of their physical and spiritual needs. Therefore, we need to think before we lock the door. Lets make sure that we avoid all appearances of evil as we seek to protect our kids.
Recently I was having a conversation with two other ladies. They were discussing volunteers wanting to lock the door to keep the kids inside. I had to laugh because we had three very different responses, but all three were very practical reasons to keep the door unlocked.
The first response was, "what if a teacher got hurt? No one could get to the kids." I believe strongly in the "two adult rule," that an adult should NEVER be alone with children in a ministry situation! More on that later. However, if something did happen and both teachers were injured, someone needs to be able to get into the room to help. A locked door prevents people from entering, but child safety door knobs give outside access without letting toddlers leave the room. A question was raised about the kids not being able to open the door in case of an emergency with the teacher. Great question. However, if you've been around enough kids, you know that if something were to happen, the kids would begin to scream and someone from the sanctuary or neighboring classes would hear them. If the door is unlocked someone from the outside can enter.
The second response was, "we don't want anyone to be accused of child abuse!" Once again, this is a valid concern. The two adult rule is so important here! An adult should never be alone with a child, to protect the children and the adult. Folks, it's time to get serious. God forbid you ever have to deal with child abuse in your church, however, you better be combating the issue before it happens. Well meaning volunteers can be put into a situation too easily where they are falsly accused of inappropriate behavior. Please don't give parents any opportunity to question your integrity! Secondly, no matter how much screening a church does, occassionally a person makes it through the screening process who should not be dealing with children. If you keep the doors unlocked (preferably with a window in the door as well) and keep two volunteers in the room, you eliminate opportunity for predators to have easy access to your children.
The third response was, "locking children in the room is against fire code!" The fire department requires that in case of fire all rooms be easily accessible. We do not want an emergency to happen and be slowed down getting out of the building.
When children are in our care, we have a great responsibility to take care of their physical and spiritual needs. Therefore, we need to think before we lock the door. Lets make sure that we avoid all appearances of evil as we seek to protect our kids.
Tuesday, March 29, 2011
Why Are The Preschoolers Behaving All The Sudden?
I am currently working with a church to help train the preschool workers. For the most part I am at the mercy of the church as far as what training looks like. When I was asked to give on the job training, I smiled, said okay, and thought a little about what to do should I get there and find myself as the teacher.
When the time came all 10 preschool teachers came back to the preschool room for "on the job training". In addition to the teachers there were probably 8 preschoolers in the room. As the kids played for awhile, I talked to teachers, then called the kids back together for the Bible lesson. We talked about Jesus going to church. To be honest, this always makes me nervous. I am suppose to be the person who knows what she's doing, but I really don't know if the kids will be in the mood to behave or not. God was gracious and let me off the hook that night. The kids paid attention and answered all my questions.
Then the kids went back to play and I did a little Q & A time with the teachers. Everyone had great questions and I think we covered a lot of ground!
The time was productive, and I plan on going back for a few weeks to see how the teachers are doing. One question I got asked over and over was, "why are all these kids behaving? What did you do?" Really, I didn't do anything! If I was 3 and had 11 adults in the room staring at me, I'd behave too! Also, a stranger in the room is exciting! I am looking forward to seeing what happens when we have fewer teachers and I become a familiar face!
We talked about 3 ground rules for the classroom.
1. Respect God and His House
2. Respect the Teachers and Other Adults in the Room
3. Respect Each Other
My reason for choosing these 3 rules (which I borrowed from another church) is they are easy to remember. The teachers may have to explain the big word "respect," but when the kids understand the word it will cover a lot! The rules are also positive (not a long list of don't). As the children learn what respect is, they will be able to carry those rules throughout life.
I will try to keep you updated on the church. I am really enjoying working with the volunteers. They have a lot of excellent questions and are eager to learn.
When the time came all 10 preschool teachers came back to the preschool room for "on the job training". In addition to the teachers there were probably 8 preschoolers in the room. As the kids played for awhile, I talked to teachers, then called the kids back together for the Bible lesson. We talked about Jesus going to church. To be honest, this always makes me nervous. I am suppose to be the person who knows what she's doing, but I really don't know if the kids will be in the mood to behave or not. God was gracious and let me off the hook that night. The kids paid attention and answered all my questions.
Then the kids went back to play and I did a little Q & A time with the teachers. Everyone had great questions and I think we covered a lot of ground!
The time was productive, and I plan on going back for a few weeks to see how the teachers are doing. One question I got asked over and over was, "why are all these kids behaving? What did you do?" Really, I didn't do anything! If I was 3 and had 11 adults in the room staring at me, I'd behave too! Also, a stranger in the room is exciting! I am looking forward to seeing what happens when we have fewer teachers and I become a familiar face!
We talked about 3 ground rules for the classroom.
1. Respect God and His House
2. Respect the Teachers and Other Adults in the Room
3. Respect Each Other
My reason for choosing these 3 rules (which I borrowed from another church) is they are easy to remember. The teachers may have to explain the big word "respect," but when the kids understand the word it will cover a lot! The rules are also positive (not a long list of don't). As the children learn what respect is, they will be able to carry those rules throughout life.
I will try to keep you updated on the church. I am really enjoying working with the volunteers. They have a lot of excellent questions and are eager to learn.
Tuesday, March 22, 2011
One Great Preschool Sunday
I had the priviledge of visiting South Reno Baptist Church's preschool department this Sunday for Sunday School. It was a great time! I really enjoyed seeing how the church ministered to its 3 and 4 year olds.
Everyone starts out in the big playroom. The check in process is made to be easy for all. New parents fill out information sheets for their children and get pagers while regular attendees have another list at the opposite end of the take.
The church has several teachers in each classroom. The class I visited had 10 kids and 5 adults.
The kids entered the room and went to the table with multiple bowls with soil and seeds (some with names and some extra for kids who weren't at Sunday School the previous week)and several pink spray bottles. The kids had to share as they got to use the bottles to water the plants they planted last week. I don't think they will forget last weeks lesson "God created the plants." After they watered (and got the table nice and wet in the process), the kids helped clean up. It was great to see so many preschoolers working together.
After they finished watering the kids got to play with animal puzzles, farm animals, and a container of bugs and snakes. The kids had a great time with animals and had animals on the brain when it came time for lessons. The last 2 lessons were reviewed quickly and the teacher used her Bible in the teaching time. She showed the kids the word God in the Bible and explained that God made everything. They talked about the animals that God made and made all sorts of fun animal sounds.
After the lesson the kids got to put stickers on a paper that said "God made the animals."
The kids then went back to the playroom to wait on their parents.
I really enjoyed this lesson because everything centered on a theme. As all preschool classes should be, the animal theme (and plant theme) was reinforced so often that the kids will not forget that God made the animals (and plants).
Everyone starts out in the big playroom. The check in process is made to be easy for all. New parents fill out information sheets for their children and get pagers while regular attendees have another list at the opposite end of the take.
The church has several teachers in each classroom. The class I visited had 10 kids and 5 adults.
The kids entered the room and went to the table with multiple bowls with soil and seeds (some with names and some extra for kids who weren't at Sunday School the previous week)and several pink spray bottles. The kids had to share as they got to use the bottles to water the plants they planted last week. I don't think they will forget last weeks lesson "God created the plants." After they watered (and got the table nice and wet in the process), the kids helped clean up. It was great to see so many preschoolers working together.
After they finished watering the kids got to play with animal puzzles, farm animals, and a container of bugs and snakes. The kids had a great time with animals and had animals on the brain when it came time for lessons. The last 2 lessons were reviewed quickly and the teacher used her Bible in the teaching time. She showed the kids the word God in the Bible and explained that God made everything. They talked about the animals that God made and made all sorts of fun animal sounds.
After the lesson the kids got to put stickers on a paper that said "God made the animals."
The kids then went back to the playroom to wait on their parents.
I really enjoyed this lesson because everything centered on a theme. As all preschool classes should be, the animal theme (and plant theme) was reinforced so often that the kids will not forget that God made the animals (and plants).
Wednesday, March 16, 2011
Salvation and Kids
Salvation and children is one of my favorite topics. The idea that God has given us the opportunity to share His plan with anyone is a privelege, although I must confess, I don't share nearly as much as I should.
Children's ministries specifically need to be sharing Christ often. Maybe all your children have made a decision for Christ, but you never know when a new child will come to your minisry. Also, teaching children to share Christ with their friends is a spiritual discipline that children can (and should) learn early. My point: even if you are sure you are in a room full of Christians, don't neglect the message!
Because many churches use Lifeway VBS, I am going to use Lifeway's method of sharing the gospel with children. The ABC's are a great tool, but don't forget to use scripture to share. So many times we just throw out "Admit, Believe, and Confess" and never explain what we mean.
First of all, we need to realize that "churchy" language is not a good idea working with children. If you are using it, explain what it means! Words like "sin" may be foreign to a person who has not been in the church culture, so don't talk above a person. Also, children think concretely. Symbolism is never good with children. "Asking Jesus to come into your heart," for example may translate to "I'm having heart surgery?" to a child. Let me give you an example of how this presentation may look.
Becoming a Christian is the most important decision anyone can ever make. Let's talk about what the Bible says about being a Christian.
God loves you and has a wonderful plan for your life. The Bible says in John 3:16 "For God loved the world in this way: He gave His One and Only Son, so that everyone who believes in Him will not perish but have eternal life."
Sin is anything that we do to disobey God. Sin can be yelling at our parents, stealing, or anything else that is not obeying God. Sin seperates people from God. Sin seperates you from God. Romans 3:23 says, "For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God. Have you ever did something wrong, something that displeases God?
This is a problem because God cannot be around sin, but all of us have sinned and have done things we shouldn't do. We have a problem because even though God loves us, we are seperated from Him. The Bible also says in Romans 6:23, "For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord." When we do something wrong, eventually the payment is to die. We may not die right now, but one day we will.
God loved you so much that he sent his Son Jesus so that you would not have to die for your sin. You will die one day, everyone will. But, God sent Jesus to die on the cross for our sin. He died, but He didn't stay dead. He came back to life! Romans 5:8says, "But God proves His own love for us in that while we were still sinners Christ died for us!"
When we die we will either live in Heaven or Hell forever. Heaven is a place with Jesus, while Hell is a place for people who have chosen to not choose God's gift.
Jesus died so even though we do things wrong, called sin, we can still have a relationship with God and not be seperated from Him. This means that if we ask Jesus to come live in our life, He will come into our lives and live with us forever.
We can ask God to come live in our life by using our ABC's. First, admit to God that you are a sinner. The first person God created chose to sin and disobey God. Ever since then all people have chosen to sin and disobey God. We must do something called repenting, which means turning away from our sin. 1 John 1:9 says, "If we confess our sins, He is faithful and righteous to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness."
Secondly, we must believe that Jesus is God's son and accept God's gift of forgiveness from sin. Ephesians 2:8-9 says, "For by grace you are saved through faith, and this is not from yourselves; it is God's gift--not from works, so that no man can boast."
Third, we must confess our faith in Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord. Romans 10:9-10 and 13 says, "if you confess with your mouth, "Jesus is Lord," and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved. With the heart one believes, resulting in righteousness, and with the mouth one confesses, resulting in salvation (becoming a Christian). For everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved." Saved is a word that means that you have asked Jesus to come into your life and have become a Christian. You are saved from your sin.
God's Holy Spirit will let you know when you are ready to be come a Christian. If it is not time for you to become a Christian, you may need to learn more about Jesus. God will help you to know when it is time for you to pray and invite Jesus to come into your life.
If it is time for you to become a Christian, talk to God and tell him that you are sorry for your sins and that you want Jesus to come into your life and forgive you for your sins. You are promising that you will obey God and live for Him for the rest of your life. You can use whatever words you want, because prayer is talking to God just like you talk to people.
If you just made that decision and invited God to live in your life, you can be sure of a few things. Your sins are forgiven. You are a Christian. You are a child of God. God will always be with you. You will go to Heaven when you die.
So now there are some things that you can do. We don't do these things because we have to. We do these things to show obedience (obeying) to God. First, we should tell other people, especially our parents, that we have become a Christian and that Jesus is your Savior and Lord. It is important to attend church often so that you can learn more about Jesus. You can't have a good relationship without spending time with someone, so it is important to read the Bible and pray every day so that you can get to know God. At some time you need to be baptized to show others that you have become a Christian. *Personally I hestitate to baptize a child right away. I prefer to wait until the child approaches a parent or leader to say that they want to be baptized. This is just a precautionary step to make sure that they have understood their decision and didn't just say a "nice prayer."
Maybe you are asking the question, Will I ever sin again? The answer is yes, everyone sins, even after Jesus comes into their lives. When you do sin, ask God to forgive you and help you to obey Him. He will!
You will never have to become a Christian again. When Jesus becomes your Savior and Lord, your salvation lasts forever. Remember, God has promised you in Hebrews 13:5 "I will never leave you or forsake you."
I also suggest a diary page or something for the child to go back to to affirm their decision. I know this conversation was long, the message isn't always that long. Most of the time you can gauge where the conversation needs to go with the child. I used Lifeway's ABC's of Becoming a Christian tract, a great resource.
I don't know who may read this, but if you are reading and have realized that you have never asked Jesus to come into your life, I pray that you would make that decision.
Children's ministries specifically need to be sharing Christ often. Maybe all your children have made a decision for Christ, but you never know when a new child will come to your minisry. Also, teaching children to share Christ with their friends is a spiritual discipline that children can (and should) learn early. My point: even if you are sure you are in a room full of Christians, don't neglect the message!
Because many churches use Lifeway VBS, I am going to use Lifeway's method of sharing the gospel with children. The ABC's are a great tool, but don't forget to use scripture to share. So many times we just throw out "Admit, Believe, and Confess" and never explain what we mean.
First of all, we need to realize that "churchy" language is not a good idea working with children. If you are using it, explain what it means! Words like "sin" may be foreign to a person who has not been in the church culture, so don't talk above a person. Also, children think concretely. Symbolism is never good with children. "Asking Jesus to come into your heart," for example may translate to "I'm having heart surgery?" to a child. Let me give you an example of how this presentation may look.
Becoming a Christian is the most important decision anyone can ever make. Let's talk about what the Bible says about being a Christian.
God loves you and has a wonderful plan for your life. The Bible says in John 3:16 "For God loved the world in this way: He gave His One and Only Son, so that everyone who believes in Him will not perish but have eternal life."
Sin is anything that we do to disobey God. Sin can be yelling at our parents, stealing, or anything else that is not obeying God. Sin seperates people from God. Sin seperates you from God. Romans 3:23 says, "For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God. Have you ever did something wrong, something that displeases God?
This is a problem because God cannot be around sin, but all of us have sinned and have done things we shouldn't do. We have a problem because even though God loves us, we are seperated from Him. The Bible also says in Romans 6:23, "For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord." When we do something wrong, eventually the payment is to die. We may not die right now, but one day we will.
God loved you so much that he sent his Son Jesus so that you would not have to die for your sin. You will die one day, everyone will. But, God sent Jesus to die on the cross for our sin. He died, but He didn't stay dead. He came back to life! Romans 5:8says, "But God proves His own love for us in that while we were still sinners Christ died for us!"
When we die we will either live in Heaven or Hell forever. Heaven is a place with Jesus, while Hell is a place for people who have chosen to not choose God's gift.
Jesus died so even though we do things wrong, called sin, we can still have a relationship with God and not be seperated from Him. This means that if we ask Jesus to come live in our life, He will come into our lives and live with us forever.
We can ask God to come live in our life by using our ABC's. First, admit to God that you are a sinner. The first person God created chose to sin and disobey God. Ever since then all people have chosen to sin and disobey God. We must do something called repenting, which means turning away from our sin. 1 John 1:9 says, "If we confess our sins, He is faithful and righteous to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness."
Secondly, we must believe that Jesus is God's son and accept God's gift of forgiveness from sin. Ephesians 2:8-9 says, "For by grace you are saved through faith, and this is not from yourselves; it is God's gift--not from works, so that no man can boast."
Third, we must confess our faith in Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord. Romans 10:9-10 and 13 says, "if you confess with your mouth, "Jesus is Lord," and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved. With the heart one believes, resulting in righteousness, and with the mouth one confesses, resulting in salvation (becoming a Christian). For everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved." Saved is a word that means that you have asked Jesus to come into your life and have become a Christian. You are saved from your sin.
God's Holy Spirit will let you know when you are ready to be come a Christian. If it is not time for you to become a Christian, you may need to learn more about Jesus. God will help you to know when it is time for you to pray and invite Jesus to come into your life.
If it is time for you to become a Christian, talk to God and tell him that you are sorry for your sins and that you want Jesus to come into your life and forgive you for your sins. You are promising that you will obey God and live for Him for the rest of your life. You can use whatever words you want, because prayer is talking to God just like you talk to people.
If you just made that decision and invited God to live in your life, you can be sure of a few things. Your sins are forgiven. You are a Christian. You are a child of God. God will always be with you. You will go to Heaven when you die.
So now there are some things that you can do. We don't do these things because we have to. We do these things to show obedience (obeying) to God. First, we should tell other people, especially our parents, that we have become a Christian and that Jesus is your Savior and Lord. It is important to attend church often so that you can learn more about Jesus. You can't have a good relationship without spending time with someone, so it is important to read the Bible and pray every day so that you can get to know God. At some time you need to be baptized to show others that you have become a Christian. *Personally I hestitate to baptize a child right away. I prefer to wait until the child approaches a parent or leader to say that they want to be baptized. This is just a precautionary step to make sure that they have understood their decision and didn't just say a "nice prayer."
Maybe you are asking the question, Will I ever sin again? The answer is yes, everyone sins, even after Jesus comes into their lives. When you do sin, ask God to forgive you and help you to obey Him. He will!
You will never have to become a Christian again. When Jesus becomes your Savior and Lord, your salvation lasts forever. Remember, God has promised you in Hebrews 13:5 "I will never leave you or forsake you."
I also suggest a diary page or something for the child to go back to to affirm their decision. I know this conversation was long, the message isn't always that long. Most of the time you can gauge where the conversation needs to go with the child. I used Lifeway's ABC's of Becoming a Christian tract, a great resource.
I don't know who may read this, but if you are reading and have realized that you have never asked Jesus to come into your life, I pray that you would make that decision.
Tuesday, March 15, 2011
When Communication Gets Tough
*Elaine is a 10 year old I met after I moved to Reno and have had a great time building a relationship and getting to know her. We've had some great times during Bible study, missions class, and just hanging out doing fun things throughout the area.
Knowing how she typically responds to people leaving, her mother asked me to go ahead and start preparing her for my leaving six months before the time of me leaving. This went great for the first few months, but then she totally quit talking. I would say hi to her and she would walk off. I tried confrontation, I even tried a small attempt at bribery.
A few times I asked if she wanted to go do something. The first time I asked I sent her mom a text message. Elaine debated for a long time and said she wanted to hang out with her dad. A few weeks later I asked her mom if I could take her to lunch. Her mom went back to the room she was in and came back and said she didn't want to go. She didn't want to tell me that, but she didn't want to go. She didn't want me to be mad.
I wasn't really surprised because I know that she was dealing with the loss (even though it hasn't happened yet) as best she could. However, I didn't want her to have regrets after I leave and I didn't want the next two months to be as awkward as the past two.
I began to think of what I know of Elaine. She is a pro at the silent treatment! However, while she is being silent it is always obvious that something is happening in her head. I have learned that she will write letters and express much more honestly how she feels through written word than expressing thoughts verbally. Most of her prayer requests are also written.
I wrote her a note. I told her that I really liked her and was happy to have gotten to know her. I was going to miss her, and I hoped we could do something together soon, but I know it's hard for her right now. I told her when she decided she wanted to do something just to tell her mom and we will work it out.
The next day her mom brought me a letter, laughing about being the go-between. I will not tell you what she said in respect to privacy, but things were said that she needed to let out.
I haven't seen Elaine since I wrote the letter, but I am confident that communication lines will be open from now on.
*Name has been changed
Knowing how she typically responds to people leaving, her mother asked me to go ahead and start preparing her for my leaving six months before the time of me leaving. This went great for the first few months, but then she totally quit talking. I would say hi to her and she would walk off. I tried confrontation, I even tried a small attempt at bribery.
A few times I asked if she wanted to go do something. The first time I asked I sent her mom a text message. Elaine debated for a long time and said she wanted to hang out with her dad. A few weeks later I asked her mom if I could take her to lunch. Her mom went back to the room she was in and came back and said she didn't want to go. She didn't want to tell me that, but she didn't want to go. She didn't want me to be mad.
I wasn't really surprised because I know that she was dealing with the loss (even though it hasn't happened yet) as best she could. However, I didn't want her to have regrets after I leave and I didn't want the next two months to be as awkward as the past two.
I began to think of what I know of Elaine. She is a pro at the silent treatment! However, while she is being silent it is always obvious that something is happening in her head. I have learned that she will write letters and express much more honestly how she feels through written word than expressing thoughts verbally. Most of her prayer requests are also written.
I wrote her a note. I told her that I really liked her and was happy to have gotten to know her. I was going to miss her, and I hoped we could do something together soon, but I know it's hard for her right now. I told her when she decided she wanted to do something just to tell her mom and we will work it out.
The next day her mom brought me a letter, laughing about being the go-between. I will not tell you what she said in respect to privacy, but things were said that she needed to let out.
I haven't seen Elaine since I wrote the letter, but I am confident that communication lines will be open from now on.
*Name has been changed
Monday, March 14, 2011
Prayers for Japan
Like most of the world I have spent the past few days watching the news about the earthquake/tsunami in Japan. My heart breaks for the people who have lost everything in the country. I honestly can say that I can't even begin to imagine what the people of Japan are feeling.
As I've been thinking and praying about this, I have wondered how this connects to children's ministry. I think when dealing with a disaster of this magnitude we need to be prepared to answer questions and deal with helping the children in our scope of influence process the disaster. Also, I wanted to give you a resource if your children decide that they want to do something to help.
I am not saying that you need to make this the only focus of your next Sunday School lesson or that you need to sit Suzie down to talk about this. However, if your children bring it up (which they may have already, I may be too late) I hope this can prepare you to handle the situation.
First of all, it is important to be open and honest when answering questions about a disaster like this. Kids may have a million questions ranging from "Why did this happen?" to "Could that happen here?" Try to be honest, but don't be afraid to say "I don't know." As you answer these questions, try to use as simple language as possible. Be sensitive, but be matter of fact. Using symbolic language doesn't work well with children who are concrete thinkers.
A big fear may be that an earthquake will strike where you live. If your child asks, be honest if you live in a place that an earthquake may strike. It probably won't hurt to use the opportunity to talk about what to do if there is a natural disaster in your area.
Above all else it is important for kids to realize that even when bad things happen, God still loves us and He is still in control. Use the time to pray with your child for the people effected by the disaster. Here are some Bible references to share:
Dueteronomy 31:6 Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the LORD your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.”
Psalm 27:1 The LORD is my light and my salvation— whom shall I fear? The LORD is the stronghold of my life— of whom shall I be afraid?
Psalm 56:3 When I am afraid, I will trust in you.
Luke 12:7 Indeed, the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Don’t be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows.
Hebrews 13:6 So we say with confidence, “The Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid. What can man do to me?”
Joshua 1:9 Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go.”
If your children want to get involved with helping, remind them that prayer is the easiest and best way to get involved. God is after all the creater and sustainer of the universe.
If your child wants to help raise or donate money for rebuilding, the Baptist Global Response Center is a great resource in which 100% of the money given will go to the people who need it. Here is the facebook page link: http://www.facebook.com/?ref=home#!/GoBGR.
I hope this has helped you as you deal with comforting and encouraging the children in your life through this disaster.
My prayers are with the people of Japan.
As I've been thinking and praying about this, I have wondered how this connects to children's ministry. I think when dealing with a disaster of this magnitude we need to be prepared to answer questions and deal with helping the children in our scope of influence process the disaster. Also, I wanted to give you a resource if your children decide that they want to do something to help.
I am not saying that you need to make this the only focus of your next Sunday School lesson or that you need to sit Suzie down to talk about this. However, if your children bring it up (which they may have already, I may be too late) I hope this can prepare you to handle the situation.
First of all, it is important to be open and honest when answering questions about a disaster like this. Kids may have a million questions ranging from "Why did this happen?" to "Could that happen here?" Try to be honest, but don't be afraid to say "I don't know." As you answer these questions, try to use as simple language as possible. Be sensitive, but be matter of fact. Using symbolic language doesn't work well with children who are concrete thinkers.
A big fear may be that an earthquake will strike where you live. If your child asks, be honest if you live in a place that an earthquake may strike. It probably won't hurt to use the opportunity to talk about what to do if there is a natural disaster in your area.
Above all else it is important for kids to realize that even when bad things happen, God still loves us and He is still in control. Use the time to pray with your child for the people effected by the disaster. Here are some Bible references to share:
Dueteronomy 31:6 Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the LORD your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.”
Psalm 27:1 The LORD is my light and my salvation— whom shall I fear? The LORD is the stronghold of my life— of whom shall I be afraid?
Psalm 56:3 When I am afraid, I will trust in you.
Luke 12:7 Indeed, the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Don’t be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows.
Hebrews 13:6 So we say with confidence, “The Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid. What can man do to me?”
Joshua 1:9 Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go.”
If your children want to get involved with helping, remind them that prayer is the easiest and best way to get involved. God is after all the creater and sustainer of the universe.
If your child wants to help raise or donate money for rebuilding, the Baptist Global Response Center is a great resource in which 100% of the money given will go to the people who need it. Here is the facebook page link: http://www.facebook.com/?ref=home#!/GoBGR.
I hope this has helped you as you deal with comforting and encouraging the children in your life through this disaster.
My prayers are with the people of Japan.
Monday, March 7, 2011
Appreciating Volunteers (Part 2)
Ministry would really be impossible without volunteers. Consider some ways to say "thank you."
1. Send a card! Appreciation doesn't have to be overly expensive, but it should be done often. Think of small things that you can do for volunteers to make them know they are appreciated. Consider occassional notes just to say "Thank you for all that you do!".
2. Gifts are nice! Once a quarter consider a small gift for volunteers. If your church has a budget for it, you could consider bookmarks or something like that. Even a pack of lifesavers with a tag saying "you are a lifesaver." or any other corny gift with a corny saying can mean a lot. Try to stay away from gifts that will just become part of a junk pile. A small gift reminds volunteers that you do appreciate what they do.
3. Recognize them in front of the church! Children's ministry volunteers are often out of sight and out of mind. Consider having a "Children's Ministry Volunteer Sunday." This may be a rare Sunday where families can worship together. Present the volunteers with a certificate. Everyone enjoys a pat on the back occassionally. This is also a way to let the congregation see what your children's ministry is doing. Consider having the children perform a song or something in front of the congregation. You may have to get someone to volunteer to stay with the babies while the volunteers are being recognized.
4. Appreciation Dinner! Toward the end of the summer plan an appreciation dinner for all your volunteers. Make sure you provide childcare (perferably not a usual volunteer). Get everyone together, feed them well, and let them know how much you appreciate them. This can be a time to share stories and just relax without the kids! You may consider an individual award or certificate for your volunteers. Make them silly or serious, but let the volunteers know that you really do appreciate them!
I hope these few suggestions will help you to show appreication to your volunteers year round. Appreciation prevents burn-out, which keeps happy volunteers!
1. Send a card! Appreciation doesn't have to be overly expensive, but it should be done often. Think of small things that you can do for volunteers to make them know they are appreciated. Consider occassional notes just to say "Thank you for all that you do!".
2. Gifts are nice! Once a quarter consider a small gift for volunteers. If your church has a budget for it, you could consider bookmarks or something like that. Even a pack of lifesavers with a tag saying "you are a lifesaver." or any other corny gift with a corny saying can mean a lot. Try to stay away from gifts that will just become part of a junk pile. A small gift reminds volunteers that you do appreciate what they do.
3. Recognize them in front of the church! Children's ministry volunteers are often out of sight and out of mind. Consider having a "Children's Ministry Volunteer Sunday." This may be a rare Sunday where families can worship together. Present the volunteers with a certificate. Everyone enjoys a pat on the back occassionally. This is also a way to let the congregation see what your children's ministry is doing. Consider having the children perform a song or something in front of the congregation. You may have to get someone to volunteer to stay with the babies while the volunteers are being recognized.
4. Appreciation Dinner! Toward the end of the summer plan an appreciation dinner for all your volunteers. Make sure you provide childcare (perferably not a usual volunteer). Get everyone together, feed them well, and let them know how much you appreciate them. This can be a time to share stories and just relax without the kids! You may consider an individual award or certificate for your volunteers. Make them silly or serious, but let the volunteers know that you really do appreciate them!
I hope these few suggestions will help you to show appreication to your volunteers year round. Appreciation prevents burn-out, which keeps happy volunteers!
Monday, February 28, 2011
Amazing Volunteers?
One thing that every children's ministry needs is dedicated volunteers. However, we all struggle with how to get volunteers and how to keep them. This will be part 1 of 2 posts about recruiting and appreicating vo1unteers.
1.Safety First: I know the general idea in most churches is, "I already struggle to get volunteers, why limit my pool?" You do not want the responsibility of finding out after you have allowed them to come into your ministry that there is a safety issue. Before you even begin recruiting, come up with a process to screen your volunteers. Screening should involve a written application (You want a file on each volunteer) with questions that focus on spiritual maturity, experience with children, references, and questions about their criminal record. Too harsh you say? You don't want to be the church accused of having a volunteer molest a child and just hold up your hands and say "I didn't know he had a record!" Leave a paper trail to document that your ministry does everything possible to keep children safe. Background screenings are not overly expensive if you go through Lifeway Christian Resources; they also show parents and volunteers that you are concerned with safety. Interview each potential volunteer to find out where they would best fit in the ministry.
2. What jobs are available? Have some job descriptions for volunteers. This prevents them coming in to be trained and just sitting around. Also, your volunteers will know what is expected of them. Have a variety of job descriptions. This makes it easy for a volunteer to plug in and be comfortable. Maybe Mary isn't comfortable teaching, but she would love to be able to help prepare snacks. Lisa may be a great teacher, but hate cutting things out. James may teach school and only be available during the summer. John can only serve once a month, but Josh is available every Sunday. Make sure your job descriptions are specific.
3. Start with parents. Parents typically enjoy a break from their children, so they may not be willing to serve every week. However, if you can find a job for them every six weeks or so, they will probably love to see what happens in your ministry. (Added bonus, if Mom likes what she sees she will recommend your church to her friends.)
4. Keep an eye out for people who are not currently involved in other parts of the church. Many of these people are just waiting to be asked personally to help in a ministry. (Hint: Don't forget the men in your church!) Many of us complain about the 20/80 rule: 20 percent of the people do 80 percent of the work. Try to discover the gifts of the other 80% of your church! Remember though, not everyone is called to children's ministry. (It's a shock I know!)Don't take a no as personal rejection!
5. Got a new members class? Try to get children's ministry information in their hands. Maybe they will want to plug in. *It is a good idea to not allow new members to serve until they have been members of the church for at least 6 months.
6. Consider asking people to be willing to serve at special events. This gives a new volunteer a chance to experience the ministry without making a big commitment. A good mix of new and experienced volunteers can be a great bonding experience at an event.
7. Give breaks! To prevent burnout, consider giving your regular volunteers a break sometime during the summer. Use school teachers and other people who may not be available during the school year to fill your positions. Most of your volunteers will miss the ministry and will be ready to start back fresh.
8. Don't forget jobs that don't involve children! Maybe you need someone to shop for supplies during the week. Maybe someone needs to prepare snacks. VBS is coming? Have someone be in charge of organizing church members as they save recylced bottles for craft time. These behind the scenes people are a great asset to any children's ministry.
Here are a few suggestions for getting volunteers. Remember, don't just look in your normal pool of volunteers, there may be someone on the outside who is looking for a place to serve.
1.Safety First: I know the general idea in most churches is, "I already struggle to get volunteers, why limit my pool?" You do not want the responsibility of finding out after you have allowed them to come into your ministry that there is a safety issue. Before you even begin recruiting, come up with a process to screen your volunteers. Screening should involve a written application (You want a file on each volunteer) with questions that focus on spiritual maturity, experience with children, references, and questions about their criminal record. Too harsh you say? You don't want to be the church accused of having a volunteer molest a child and just hold up your hands and say "I didn't know he had a record!" Leave a paper trail to document that your ministry does everything possible to keep children safe. Background screenings are not overly expensive if you go through Lifeway Christian Resources; they also show parents and volunteers that you are concerned with safety. Interview each potential volunteer to find out where they would best fit in the ministry.
2. What jobs are available? Have some job descriptions for volunteers. This prevents them coming in to be trained and just sitting around. Also, your volunteers will know what is expected of them. Have a variety of job descriptions. This makes it easy for a volunteer to plug in and be comfortable. Maybe Mary isn't comfortable teaching, but she would love to be able to help prepare snacks. Lisa may be a great teacher, but hate cutting things out. James may teach school and only be available during the summer. John can only serve once a month, but Josh is available every Sunday. Make sure your job descriptions are specific.
3. Start with parents. Parents typically enjoy a break from their children, so they may not be willing to serve every week. However, if you can find a job for them every six weeks or so, they will probably love to see what happens in your ministry. (Added bonus, if Mom likes what she sees she will recommend your church to her friends.)
4. Keep an eye out for people who are not currently involved in other parts of the church. Many of these people are just waiting to be asked personally to help in a ministry. (Hint: Don't forget the men in your church!) Many of us complain about the 20/80 rule: 20 percent of the people do 80 percent of the work. Try to discover the gifts of the other 80% of your church! Remember though, not everyone is called to children's ministry. (It's a shock I know!)Don't take a no as personal rejection!
5. Got a new members class? Try to get children's ministry information in their hands. Maybe they will want to plug in. *It is a good idea to not allow new members to serve until they have been members of the church for at least 6 months.
6. Consider asking people to be willing to serve at special events. This gives a new volunteer a chance to experience the ministry without making a big commitment. A good mix of new and experienced volunteers can be a great bonding experience at an event.
7. Give breaks! To prevent burnout, consider giving your regular volunteers a break sometime during the summer. Use school teachers and other people who may not be available during the school year to fill your positions. Most of your volunteers will miss the ministry and will be ready to start back fresh.
8. Don't forget jobs that don't involve children! Maybe you need someone to shop for supplies during the week. Maybe someone needs to prepare snacks. VBS is coming? Have someone be in charge of organizing church members as they save recylced bottles for craft time. These behind the scenes people are a great asset to any children's ministry.
Here are a few suggestions for getting volunteers. Remember, don't just look in your normal pool of volunteers, there may be someone on the outside who is looking for a place to serve.
Tuesday, February 22, 2011
Easter (and Annie!) is Coming!
As I was wandering through CVS this weekend the message was clear, "Easter is coming". Between Cadbury eggs, white chocolate bunnies, Reeses Eggs, Jelly Beans (my personal favorite!), and egg dying kits the message was clear, Easter is indeed coming. Valentines day has barely passed, but retail is getting ready for their profits. If the retail stores have figured out they have to prepare for the temporal parts of the holiday, shouldn't we already be preparing for Easter?
As churches this gives us the opportunity to share with our children the good news of Christ's birth. It also gives us the opportunity to promote North American Missions with the Annie Armstrong Easter Offering.
As you prepare for Easter, think about the opportunities. What will your church be doing?
First, egg hunts are not a bad thing, but PLEASE don't let your egg hunt be your only Easter focus. Even the youngest kids in your ministry can hear that Jesus rose from the dead!
I can hear you now, thanks Jenn, you just took away my Easter Sunday (or Saturday) idea. On the contrary! I am an advocate for egg hunts, they are fun. Consider using your egg hunt as a time to also present the gospel. Ressurection Eggs are a great way to share the gospel with Egg Hunt attenders. You can decide, do you want to hide the ressurection eggs with the others or keep them to the side...either way, kids love discovering what is inside the egg.
If you want you can buy the eggs ready made, but if you want to save a little money, you can make them yourselves. Just take 12 plastic Easter eggs and put them in a carton. Some people match colors with the eggs, that is okay, but I am just going to tell you what goes in the egg. The verses beside the item are the verses you can use to tell the story.
1. Bread: Matthew 26:26 Jesus gave the disciples bread at the last supper.
2. Coins: Matthew 26:14-15 Judas betrayed Jesus for 30 pieces of silver.
3. Purple cloth: Mark 15:17 The soldiers put a purple robe on Jesus.
4. Thorns (be careful with these, you may want to consider a plastic version): Matthew 27:29 The soldiers put a crown of thorns on Jesus' head.
5. Small piece of rope or thick string: Mark 15:15 Barabbas was freed and Jesus was whipped and handed over to be crucified.
6. Cross: John 19:17-18a Jesus was crucified.
7. Nails: Jesus was nailed to the cross
8. Sign: Luke 23:38 A sign was put over Jesus' head saying "This is the King of the Jews.
9. Sponge: Matthew 27:48 A soldier tried to give Jesus a drink on a sponge, but Jesus didn't drink it.
10. Spear: John: 19:34 A soldier stuck his spear in Jesus' side to make sure He was dead.
11. Rock: Matthew 27:59-60 A huge rock was rolled in front of the grave so that nobody could get in.
12. Empty: Matthew 28:6 When Jesus' friends got to the grave, the grave was empty. Jesus had risen!
I realize these items may not be the same as others you have seen before. Some people incorporate cotton to show that Jesus was wrapped up when he was buried.
This is just one idea for Easter, the important thing is presenting the story as a TRUE story!
Now, what can Annie Armstrong possibly have to do with children's ministry?
Annie Armstrong is a missions offering taken up every year to support missions throughout North America (specifically the U.S. and Canada.) It is important for children to learn about missions and missionaries at a very young age. Consider letting your kids know about the Week of Prayer Missionaries (you can find them at www.namb.net) and giving them the opportunity to give to the offering.
The Week of prayer missionaries this year are from Laredo, TX, Nebraska, Georgia, Indiana, Montreal, Canada, Southern California, New Mexico, and Maryland. They work with a variety of people from cowboys, internationals, those who can't read, college students, and a variety of other jobs.
What an opportunity to teach your kids what is happening in missions right here in North America!
I hope that you will consider making this Easter a time for not only fun in your ministry, but also take the opportunity to make this Easter the time of a life changing decision in your children's lives!
As churches this gives us the opportunity to share with our children the good news of Christ's birth. It also gives us the opportunity to promote North American Missions with the Annie Armstrong Easter Offering.
As you prepare for Easter, think about the opportunities. What will your church be doing?
First, egg hunts are not a bad thing, but PLEASE don't let your egg hunt be your only Easter focus. Even the youngest kids in your ministry can hear that Jesus rose from the dead!
I can hear you now, thanks Jenn, you just took away my Easter Sunday (or Saturday) idea. On the contrary! I am an advocate for egg hunts, they are fun. Consider using your egg hunt as a time to also present the gospel. Ressurection Eggs are a great way to share the gospel with Egg Hunt attenders. You can decide, do you want to hide the ressurection eggs with the others or keep them to the side...either way, kids love discovering what is inside the egg.
If you want you can buy the eggs ready made, but if you want to save a little money, you can make them yourselves. Just take 12 plastic Easter eggs and put them in a carton. Some people match colors with the eggs, that is okay, but I am just going to tell you what goes in the egg. The verses beside the item are the verses you can use to tell the story.
1. Bread: Matthew 26:26 Jesus gave the disciples bread at the last supper.
2. Coins: Matthew 26:14-15 Judas betrayed Jesus for 30 pieces of silver.
3. Purple cloth: Mark 15:17 The soldiers put a purple robe on Jesus.
4. Thorns (be careful with these, you may want to consider a plastic version): Matthew 27:29 The soldiers put a crown of thorns on Jesus' head.
5. Small piece of rope or thick string: Mark 15:15 Barabbas was freed and Jesus was whipped and handed over to be crucified.
6. Cross: John 19:17-18a Jesus was crucified.
7. Nails: Jesus was nailed to the cross
8. Sign: Luke 23:38 A sign was put over Jesus' head saying "This is the King of the Jews.
9. Sponge: Matthew 27:48 A soldier tried to give Jesus a drink on a sponge, but Jesus didn't drink it.
10. Spear: John: 19:34 A soldier stuck his spear in Jesus' side to make sure He was dead.
11. Rock: Matthew 27:59-60 A huge rock was rolled in front of the grave so that nobody could get in.
12. Empty: Matthew 28:6 When Jesus' friends got to the grave, the grave was empty. Jesus had risen!
I realize these items may not be the same as others you have seen before. Some people incorporate cotton to show that Jesus was wrapped up when he was buried.
This is just one idea for Easter, the important thing is presenting the story as a TRUE story!
Now, what can Annie Armstrong possibly have to do with children's ministry?
Annie Armstrong is a missions offering taken up every year to support missions throughout North America (specifically the U.S. and Canada.) It is important for children to learn about missions and missionaries at a very young age. Consider letting your kids know about the Week of Prayer Missionaries (you can find them at www.namb.net) and giving them the opportunity to give to the offering.
The Week of prayer missionaries this year are from Laredo, TX, Nebraska, Georgia, Indiana, Montreal, Canada, Southern California, New Mexico, and Maryland. They work with a variety of people from cowboys, internationals, those who can't read, college students, and a variety of other jobs.
What an opportunity to teach your kids what is happening in missions right here in North America!
I hope that you will consider making this Easter a time for not only fun in your ministry, but also take the opportunity to make this Easter the time of a life changing decision in your children's lives!
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