What are characteristics of children’s ministries that stand out? We all want our children’s ministries to grow and thrive. We want to move beyond babysitting at church. And we want to involve others rather than doing everything ourselves.
Of course, we all want these things in our kidmin programs. We want momentum, engagement, high participation and, more than anything, impact.
7 Characteristics of Standout Children’s Ministries
Here are a few characteristics I’ve observed of what I call standout children’s ministries:
1. It’s a God thing.
First, here are some quotes from Phil Vischer, creator of Veggie Tales. I think they speak for themselves:
The most important thing is not the work I can do for God. The most important thing is to make God the most important thing.
The impact God has planned for us doesn’t occur when we’re pursuing impact. It occurs when we’re pursuing God.
2. Focus on the Gospel.
We should be all about the Good News, right? Then why do we get so caught up in environment, communication techniques, relationships, curriculum, etc.? Are all those important? They are absolutely critical! But if they don’t ultimately lead to a focus on the Gospel, none of them really means a whole lot.
3. Stay in alignment.
The leaders of your church need a very specific vision. Your children’s ministries must be carefully and intentionally aligned with this vision. Otherwise, sooner or later you’ll no longer be effective and, most likely, will cause dissension.
4. Tell stories to share the vision.
A vision statement up on the wall is great, but it usually won’t inspire response. Recently I saw this quote by Ally Evans:
There are 2 Steps to Growing Your Kidmin: Create a culture of invitation & share stories all the time.
You communicate vision by the stories you tell. Drive change, recruitment, parent engagement—virtually everything!—through telling these stories.
