Characteristics of a Sunday School Teacher, the KidMin Superhero

What characteristics of a Sunday school teacher come to mind for you? Images that might pop into your head include a sweet grandmother with a flannelgraph board. Or a college student with a guitar. Maybe it’s a harried parent who got “volunteered” at the last minute.

But Sunday school teachers aren’t cut from one mold. They come in all ages, personalities, and backgrounds. Some are energetic extroverts. Others are quiet and steady. Some are creative and love crafts. Others prefer storytelling. Some are lifelong churchgoers. Others are brand-new Christians with a heart for kids.

In children’s ministry, certain characteristics of a Sunday school teacher are essential. But many other traits can vary. So let’s celebrate the variety of people God equips to invest in kids.

Dispel These Myths About Sunday School Teachers

• Myth #1: Sunday school teachers need a theology degree.
  Truth: Yes, biblical knowledge is important. But most curriculum is easy to use. Any committed volunteer can share God’s Word with kids.
• Myth #2: Sunday school teachers must be “crafty.”
  Truth: Not every great teacher loves glue sticks. Some excel at discussions and games.
• Myth #3: Sunday school teachers must be older.
  Truth: Retirees often make wonderful teachers. But so do college students, young parents, and even teen assistants.
• Myth #4: Sunday school teachers must be perfect Christians.
  Truth: No one is! The best teachers are authentic and growing in their walk with Jesus.

Where Sunday School Teachers Come From

First of all, recognize the superheroes in your church pews. Potential kidmin teachers include:

• Parents of children in the program
• College students or recent graduates looking to serve
• Grandparents and retirees with time and wisdom to share
• Young professionals who want to give back
• Teenagers eager to learn leadership skills as assistants
• People who don’t feel called to sing in the choir or serve on committees but love kids

The bottom line? Sunday school teachers aren’t a rare species. They’re already in your congregation, waiting for the invitation.

24 Characteristics of a Sunday School Teacher

Every teacher is unique, but some shared qualities help them thrive. Look for these folks to make a difference in church classrooms.

Biblical & Spiritual Characteristics

1. Love for God’s Word—Teachers must treasure Scripture. (Psalm 119:105)
2. Faithfulness—Sunday school staff members show up consistently and reliably.
3. Patience—This is essential for a room full of energetic children. (Galatians 5:22)
4. Kindness—Being kind to kids makes a lasting impact.
5. Humility—Be willing to say, “I don’t know. Let’s find the answer together.”
6. Prayerfulness—Cover each lesson and child in prayer. (Philippians 4:6)
7. Joy—A cheerful spirit reflects God’s goodness. (Nehemiah 8:10)
8. Integrity—Model Christ-like living inside and outside the classroom.

Personality Traits & Skills

1. Flexibility—Adapt when craft supplies run out or the projector breaks.
2. Creativity—Bring Bible stories to life through drama, art, or object lessons.
3. Energy—A classroom of first-graders requires stamina (and coffee).
4. Sense of humor—Laugh when a child says something hilariously honest.
5. Storytelling ability—Make the Bible exciting and relatable.
6. Listening skills—Hear kids’ questions and value their voices.
7. Clear communicator—Explain big theological truths in kid-sized language.
8. Team player—Work well with assistants, other teachers, and ministry leaders.
9. Dependable—Children thrive on routines. Teachers who show up week after week build trust.
10. Encouraging—Boost children’s confidence in their faith journey.