Wondering how to restart children’s ministry after Christmas and the long holiday break? With disrupted routines, travel, illness, and bad weather, January can feel like a slow crawl, not a new beginning.
But restarting your children’s ministry program in January doesn’t have to be overwhelming. In fact, those weeks offer opportunities to reset expectations, re-engage families, and cast fresh vision for the months ahead.
With some planning, your children’s ministry can start the new year with renewed purpose.
10 Tips To Restart Children’s Ministry After Christmas
Here are some post-holiday suggestions to keep in mind:
1. Adjust Your Mindset
First keep in mind that January rarely brings an instant return to “normal.” Attendance might be spotty, volunteers might still be traveling, and kids might struggle to settle back into routines. So instead of aiming for a flawless restart, focus on what matters most. Remind teachers it’s okay if numbers are lower at first. Encourage them to warmly share the love of Jesus with returning students.
2. Simplify!
Next up: Remember that after Christmas, volunteers might face burnout. So don’t launch multiple new initiatives at once. Instead, choose low-prep Bible lessons or repeat a few favorites. Limit craft options to one simple activity. For a few weeks, replace complex rotations with large-group teaching. A streamlined approach lets everyone ease back in.
3. Communicate with Families
Families returning from winter break must juggle school, sports, and new routines. Clear communication helps them prioritize children’s ministry again. To reconnect, send a “Welcome Back” email or text. List start dates and share what kids will be learning. Also post photos from Christmas events. Then greet parents by name when they return, to make them feel valued.
4. Address Obstacles
- Low attendance. January attendance dips are normal. Don’t panic or assume families have left the church. Instead, track trends over several weeks and celebrate who is present. Encourage kids to invite a friend when school resumes.
- Volunteer fatigue. Volunteers may feel tired or hesitant to recommit. So start the year with lighter schedules. Offer a “reset Sunday” with shorter commitments. Publicly thank volunteers for their efforts during the holidays. Check in with each helper.
- Weather and illness. Storms and sickness can derail plans. So be flexible and have backup lesson options ready. If needed, combine classes. Clearly communicate last-minute changes.
5. Create a New Year Theme
January is ideal for introducing spiritual goals. Help kids see the new year as an opportunity to grow closer to Jesus. Theme ideas include “Growing in God’s Love,” “Learning to Follow Jesus,” “Building Godly Habits,” and “Living God’s Way Every Day.” Pair the theme with simple memory verses, visual reminders, or a countdown chart.
