More Characteristics of a Sunday School Teacher
Fun (But True!) Characteristics
- Immune to glitter—Or at least willing to sparkle for Jesus!
- Can handle snack chaos—Goldfish crackers on the floor are a fact of life.
- Okay with interruptions—These range from bathroom breaks to stories about pets.
- Willing to sing silly songs—Hand motions and all!
- Appreciates stickers—Because kids love them.
- Endures repetition—Kids might ask, “Why?” a hundred times. And that’s okay.
Recruit the Right People
So how do you find and recruit Sunday school superheroes? Here are some practical tips:
- Pray first. Ask God to raise up the right people for the right classes.
- Look beyond the obvious. Don’t just approach parents. Also consider singles, grandparents, and teens.
- Make a personal ask. Instead of announcing from the pulpit, invite people face to face. Explain why you think they’d be great.
- Offer training and support. People hesitate when they feel unprepared. Provide resources, mentoring, and encouragement.
- Don’t skimp on security. Require background checks for all teachers and volunteers.
- Value flexibility. Some volunteers may prefer to serve once a month, as substitutes, or during special events.
- Celebrate your teachers. Publicly thank them, give small tokens of appreciation, and remind them they are changing lives.
Sunday school teachers don’t have special powers. They let God use their ordinary gifts to make extraordinary impacts. As children’s ministry leaders, identify, equip, and encourage teachers. Remind them that every life matters in God’s kingdom.
And when you think about characteristics of a Sunday school teacher? Don’t imagine a stereotype! Picture someone with love for Jesus, willingness to serve, and maybe a glitter-covered shirt. That’s the kind of hero kids need.