Why is special needs ministry such a hot topic? An estimated one in five U.S. residents has a disability. That is equal to the population of Florida and California combined. Among children ages 3 to 17, one in six has a developmental disability.
Consider the increase in autism cases. Among boys the rate is as high as one in 31 (3.23%). Some professionals say these statistics are still too conservative, accounting only for formal diagnoses.
Why Special Needs Ministry?
Here are more reasons your church and kidmin program should minister to kids with special needs.
- One in every 691 babies is born with Down syndrome.
- 7% of children ages 3 to 17 have ADHD.
- 8% of children ages 3 to 17 have a learning disability.
- 14% of children ages 13 to 17 have a developmental disability.
- 17% of Americans experience a communication disorder at some point.
- 25 percent of 13- to 18-year-olds have an anxiety disorder.
Opportunities Abound With Special Needs Ministry
By ministering to children with special needs, your church will be blessed. You have opportunities to share the gospel with individuals of varying abilities so they can fully grow in their faith. Plus, the families of kids with special needs feel supported. They know their loved ones feel comfortable and confident in the church environment and are valued members of the faith family.
