Attending the "Children's Ministry Live" conference was a great example in how we should all be teaching our classes. Whether you are a volunteer in Children's Ministry, a teacher, or a home-schooling parent, it was a great reminder that our children were all created differently and they don't all learn in the same way. I was reminded that our goal for our students and children is the same: we desire for them to have an understanding of God's word, so that they will grow spiritually mature and live out their faith by reaching the world around them for Christ. So the question is, how do we do this when we only see these kids for, at most, 90 minutes a week?
Here are some great, easy to apply, tools to use in your home and class:
- Start with what kids know and work from there. Examine your lesson and look for words and concepts that may be unfamiliar to your age group. You may need to look for easier to understand translations of the scripture you are using.
- During your lesson, check for meaning. Rather than working for memorization, work toward understanding and application of the concept.
- Use different modes of learning - act out the message, use sound effects, hand motions, illustrations. Give children choices between different roles and jobs in your class. Children only remember 10% of what they hear or read and 90% of what they do!
- Avoid bribes like, "If you memorize your Bible verse, you get a piece of candy." Instead, surprise your class with rewards. For example, "You did such a great job with your memory verse this week, I've brought lifesavers for everyone. This reminds us that only Jesus can save our lives for eternity!" Research shows that bribes condition your students that the action you desire (memorizing the Bible verse) is not as good as the bribe (the candy).
- And remember that church is about relationships! Make your class a fun and inviting place where children want to be. Also, connect with the parents because you may be the only one they talk to at Cornerstone.
For more great ideas visit: childrensministry.com
We are all a TEAM - so know that we as the Zone Staff are very interested in what our volunteers are learning and ideas they might have. Please feel free to contact any of us and share your thoughts, stories, or anything about what God is doing in your life or especially in your classroom.