These 31 summer children’s ministry ideas will delight children, welcome families, and reach the community. Try these fun, faith-filled activities at your church this season!
Summer offers kidmin workers fresh opportunities to connect with kids and families in creative ways. School’s out, so families are looking for wholesome activities.
Your church can be a welcoming, love-filled place. Whether large or small, your kidmin program can offer effective summer events. These activities will nurture faith, build relationships, and reach new families.
31 Summer Children’s Ministry Ideas
Here are 31 summer children’s ministry ideas for Sunday school and beyond. These ideas include outdoor options, family-friendly fun, and outreach events designed to bless your church and neighborhood.
Ideas for Any-Size Church
These activities work with limited space, few volunteers, or small budgets. They’re perfect for smaller congregations or low-key summer days.
- Bible Story Picnic
Pack a lunch and gather at a park. Share a Bible story, sing a song, and enjoy fellowship and playtime. - Sidewalk Chalk Scripture Art
Invite kids to draw Bible verses and scenes on church sidewalks (or nearby public areas, with permission). - Praise & Popsicles Night
Host a brief kid-led worship time with praise songs. Follow that up with frozen treats for everyone. - Prayer Walk
Lead kids on a short walk around the church or neighborhood. Pray for homes, schools, and community leaders. - Nature Bible Walk
Take kids outside to observe God’s creation. Then discuss Genesis 1 or Psalm 19:1. - Craft & Verse Days
Hold weekly sessions with a simple craft tied to a Bible verse. Invite families to join. - Water Games & Bible Truths
Pair water games or relays with short devotionals on Jesus as the living water. - Build-It Bible Days
Have kids build scenes from Bible stories using Legos, blocks, or recyclables. Afterward, share what everyone has learned.
Outreach-Focused Ideas
Next up: Invite neighborhood kids and families to experience Jesus’ love.
- Free Lemonade Stand with a Message
Offer cold drinks and warm smiles, plus Bible-verse cards or prayer invitations. - Pop-Up Story Time
Read a Bible story aloud at a park with simple visuals. Invite kids to stay for games or a snack. - Backpack Blessing Giveaway
Provide school supplies or gently used backpacks at a community event. Pray over the kids who receive them. - Outdoor Movie Night
Project a family-friendly, faith-based movie outdoors. Offer popcorn and extend an invitation to worship. - Petting Zoo Praise Day
Partner with a local farm or 4-H club to bring animals to church. Share Creation stories about God’s care. - Community Clean-Up Kids Crew
Invite kids to serve by cleaning up a park or neighborhood. Open with prayer, and provide shirts and lunch. - Ice Cream Social
Host a “make-your-own sundae” night. Use fun flyers and personal invites to invite local families.
Ideas That Welcome Families
Family-based ministry strengthens church connection. These awesome ideas bring parents and kids together.
- Family Olympics
Play simple games like sack races, hoop contests, and trivia. Offer Bible-themed prizes. - Parents vs. Kids Bible Trivia
Let teams compete in fun Bible quizzes. Keep it light-hearted and celebrate everyone. - Family Devotional Picnic Kits
Distribute kits with a blanket, devotional guide, and snacks. This encourages spiritual time at home. - Praise in the Park
Invite families to gather in a park for songs, a brief devotional, and time to play and connect. - Board Games & Blessings Night
Host a family game night at church. Include Christian-themed games or discussion cards. - Campfire Worship & Story Night
Gather around a fire pit to share Bible stories, sing worship songs, and make s’mores.
