Author Archives: Verda

How Would You Define a Successful Children’s Ministry?

Posted by Jan 25, 2016 Serving , , , , , ,

When I was asked this question it caused me to reflect on some of the most important things in childrenJesus_Blessing_the_Children‘s ministry.  I was reminded of this familiar picture of “Jesus Blessing the Children.” The artist clearly depicts Jesus’ love for children. He was not disturbed by their childish ways or the inconvenience of stopping to give them personal attention on a busy day. This picture beautifully illustrates a foundational characteristic of a successful children’s ministry. I’ve listed others as well that I think are worthy of our best efforts.

1. Children feel loved and welcome. One of the most important things we can do in our Sunday gatherings and weekday clubs is to make children feel welcome.  This may seem like a small and pretty obvious thing, but I think it’s worth a reminder because children really aren’t welcome in many places today.  Like adults, children appreciate a welcoming smile, a pleasant greeting, and being called by their name. I think we all have to work at remembering names, especially if you’re new, filling in for a teacher, or have a very large class or children’s church. But it’s worth the effort because it means a lot to a child.  If you forget a child’s name, as I often do, it’s perfectly fine to ask for a reminder from them.  Name tags really help with those forgetful moments. Additionally, I often take pictures of my students and either display them in class, or keep them in a notebook to help myself and other workers learn their names.

2. Teachers are prepared. Part of welcoming children is preparing for them. When you arrive early and are well prepared, you are more free to enjoy your students and get to know them better. Your lessons will be more interesting as you can readily draw from your ideas and plans—and at the same time be flexible in your teaching and adjust to the needs of your students. Praying is an essential step in preparation and increases our effectiveness. And praying in class helps children learn about the importance of prayer and experience it themselves. Be prepared to pray with the students each time you meet.

3. Volunteers work in harmony as a team. I’m convinced that a successful children’s ministry is a team effort involving many dedicated people using their gifts and talents together.  There is a tendency in our churches to overlook the talents of people of all age levels who have something to offer.  We should be on the look out for people in our church who may have something meaningful to contribute to our class. For more on how to develop a team ministry, see my  two-part article “Building a Successful Teaching Team” on the resource page of this website which you can download now.

4. Learning is both fun and meaningful. I think most of us who work with children realize how important it is that children have fun while learning.  I’m all for this and believe that children are active learners and we should always be mindful of including the fun aspect.  But to be truly successful, we need to go beyond having fun and make sure that we are giving our students something that will last long after church is over. Learning must be meaningful if you want your students to really grow spiritually; if you want them to learn to be young disciples of Jesus and build their lives on a solid foundation.

5. Children are taught the Word of God.  Children need spiritual food to feed their souls. And that comes by learning about God, His Word, and how it applies to them in their daily lives.  We are successful in ministry when we  provide children with opportunities for spiritual growth, and gently lead them to a personal relationship with Jesus.  As we prayerfully sow the seed of the Word of God at their level of understanding, our students can grow and mature spiritually.

6. Children want to come back and bring their friends.  Church should be a happy and exciting place for children—a place where they feel loved and valued! Are you excited about your class?  Then your students will be too!  Are you making plans beyond this Sunday or Wednesday for new learning experiences for the children? Do you see potential in your students? Are you praying for them during the week? Do you know something about their likes and dislikes? where they go to school? what activities they’re involved in? Giving attention to these things will help create a wonderful atmosphere for learning. There will always be challenging situations that arise in a teaching situation. But if you are consistent—and the children can count on you to prepare an exciting time of learning together—they will want to come back for more!

(This concludes a five-part, brief summary of my philosophy of children’s ministry. I invite you to also read the first four listed on the sidebar and leave your comments or questions.)

God Bless You Today!

Verda Rubottom

 

What Methods Do You Recommend When Teaching Children?

Posted by Oct 28, 2015 children, Methods for teaching children, Serving , , , , , , , , , ,

IMG_2165(Part 4 of Children’s Ministry Philosophy) While entire college courses are devoted to studying the most effective methods to use when teaching children, I’ll limit my discussion here to five suggestions:

1. First, you must know something about your students!  The teaching methods you choose will depend on their ages and development, their cultural backgrounds, and their spiritual maturity levels.  Missionaries study the culture and languages of the people they plan to reach with the gospel—and as Christian teachers, we need to do the same. Knowing the typical stages children go through will guide you in your selection of materials, and the methods you use. Additionally, you’ll want to learn about your students’ individual interests, abilities, talents, and hobbies—as well as the needs and challenges that are common to their age group.

2. Become  familiar with the “language” of your students. How do they talk and relate to each other? One way to do this is to observe the age group you’ll be teaching. Listen to them. Notice the way they communicate both verbally and non verbally. We don’t need to talk down to children, but we do need to communicate the best we can at their level of understanding. We can bring them to greater knowledge of Scripture and the Christian life by building on what they know, and taking them to the next level. The method you choose for each lesson should be a tool that communicates and helps illuminate the truths of Scripture to a child’s mind and heart. This means you will need a variety of methods in your teaching tool box!

3. Choose methods that will capture the interest of your students.  In her classic book, Motivation, Madeline Hunter discusses the variables that affect a child’s learning. One of them is a child’s interest.  The principle here is, “interest precedes learning”. Very simple, yet we can easily overlook this point. Sometimes our best plans will fail because we have lost the interest of the children. As any children’s teacher can tell you, their attention span is limited—and they will let you know when it’s used up!  Some ways to not only capture—but keep their attention are discussed in my article, “How Children Learn Best” on the free download resource page and in my book, First Steps for Effective Teaching, available on this website.

4.Let children participate in some way. Children learn more when their senses are involved and when they have opportunities to participate in the learning process.  Storytelling, teaching and worship videos, object lessons, puppets, flash cards, drama and role play, interest centers, and games are all effective teaching tools when used appropriately and can involve children. Remember though, that it’s good to plan for a balance of active learning and listening times—because both are important. Children are participating while they’re  listening—if they are thinking, and are motivated and inspired.

5. Above all, seek the Lord’s guidance when planning your lesson and teaching methods. Jesus, the Master Teacher, knows all about children and the best teaching method to use for each occasion. He knows who will be in your class that day and what methods will be most effective in speaking to a child’s heart and mind.  I encourage you to consider using a variety of methods and to expand your teaching tool box.  All of us have our favorite method, and it may be our most effective method!  God has gifted us in different ways.  But be open to stretching a little and trying something different. You may be surprised at how much you enjoy it and how the children respond!  Jesus described the growing teacher in Matthew 13:52  when he compared them to householders who brought out of their storehouses, “the fresh as well as the familiar” (The Amplified Bible). We want our students to look forward to coming each week…so let’s give them our best.  And then trust the Master to do His work in each of their hearts!

God Bless You Today!

Verda Rubottom

 

How Do You Teach Children the Basics of Discipleship?

Posted by Oct 8, 2015 Serving , , , , , , , , , , , ,

lightstock_216002_xsmall_verda_rubottom_Part three of “What is Your Philosophy of Children’s Ministry?”  Undoubtedly, the most effective way that we teach the basics of discipleship is by our example.  Guy Doud, Teacher of the Year in 1986, wrote this short poem that is food for thought for anyone who teaches children.

Sermons We See

By Guy Doud

I’d rather see a sermon than hear one any day.

I’d rather you walk with me, than merely show the way.

The eye’s a better pupil and more willing than the ear.

Fine counsel is confusing, but examples always clear.

Child specialists tell us that children will often pattern their lives after the people they admire the most.  It’s important to be a good role model—and to introduce children to other role models they can look up to.  Children also notice who their parents admire and will tend to follow that as well. The people that we give attention to, and show high esteem for, will likely earn the attention of our children.  Despite our changing culture, parents are still the most powerful influence in a child’s life. For this reason, I encourage leaders to involve Christian parents in their children’s ministry when that is possible. Involving parents in some way sends a message to the child that their class is important.

Of course, the greatest role model we have is our Lord Jesus. And even very young children can learn from his example when we teach Bible stories at their level of understanding. Helping children understand Scripture takes effort on our part, and will often involve bringing visuals and various and sundry hands-on items to help translate the meaning to children. But it is well worth the effort when you see little eyes light up and older children show excitement as you begin to teach your lesson.

The last thing I want to mention in this post about discipleship is that we need to give our students opportunities to serve— just like Jesus did—when he was training his disciples. He asked them questions, tested them, and gave them many opportunities to practice what they were being taught. Jesus involved the disciples in serving the people.  Likewise, children need to learn to serve; to do more than sit and listen, as important as that is. They need to learn to help in small ways, and gradually move to greater responsibility as they show they are willing and capable. This will take a little planning on our part  because it seems easier to do all the work ourselves. But learning to be a disciple involves action, and we can help our students take that important step as they are learning and growing in the Word.

God bless you as you serve Him today!,

Verda Rubottom

 

Please note: For a more thorough discussion on this topic, go to the resource page on this website and read the article, Partners in Christian Education,  published in the Christian Education Counselor.  It’s available in PDF so you may download it free and use it as a resource for your staff.

What is the Relationship of a Children’s Pastor or Director to Parents?

Posted by Oct 5, 2015 Serving

Part two of “What is Your Philosophy of Children’s Ministry?”    The children’s pastor, or children’s director, has a unique opportunity to partner with parents as they raise their children to serve the Lord. Involving parents in Christian education is one of the most effective means of helping children grow spiritually. And there are many ways to do this.

To begin, I recommend that you make an effort to meet parents as they come to the children’s area each week.  Take advantage of this time to welcome them and make them feel at home.  If you are a teacher, do this as well when the parents drop off or pick up their child from your class.

Next, provide a variety of levels for parents to be involved in your children’s programs.  This can include assisting in class, organizing teaching and craft materials, helping with class parties and outings, decorating classrooms, and helping with missions projects. Make a list of supplies you need that parents may not be aware of.  Even if your church supplies items for you, some parents will enjoy being involved in bringing specialty items for an object lesson or special craft. And don’t forget the special talents that parents can contribute. Possibilities include: baking cookies, building a puppet stage, sewing biblical dress-up clothes, or playing the guitar!  Parents can also be a wonderful resource for your learning centers.

In addition to ministering to children, churches can offer weekly programs to support parents such as Mother’s Day Out, and annual family events such as Parents’ Night Out, Father/Daughter Night, game nights, family movie nights, and weekend camping events. With a little creativity and a good support staff you can provide many opportunities to include parents in your children’s ministry, both in and outside the classroom.

Remember, parents will be more willing to be involved when they understand the important role they have in their child’s spiritual life. Research confirms that the most productive and long term learning achievement occurs when parents are involved in their child’s education. (See statistics in the article listed below.)  As Christians, we need only to go to Scripture to confirm the value of parents teaching their children about God.

To summarize: 1)  Make it a point to welcome parents each week and be available for their questions or comments. 2)  Take time to plan—and then evaluate your avenues of involving parents and their effectiveness. 3)  Show your appreciation to parents for bringing their children and for their support of your church’s children’s ministry.

I have seen over the years the tremendous value of having parents involved in the Christian education of their children.  I believe we should do all we can to encourage parents to be involved! For a more thorough discussion on this topic, go to the resource page on this website and read the article, Partners in Christian Education,  published in the Christian Education Counselor.  It’s available in PDF so you may download it free and use it as a resource for your staff.

God bless you as you Him serve today!

Verda Rubottom

 

 

 

 

 

What is Your Children’s Ministry Philosophy?

Posted by Sep 28, 2015 Serving , , , ,

Christmas and workshop INCM 2005 014A few years ago I was asked about my personal philosophy of children’s ministry. That’s an important question we should all be able to answer as children’s leaders and teachers. It’s important to write down your beliefs and philosophy in order to clarify the purpose and the direction of your ministry. The people who attend your church need to know it too. The next few days I’ll be discussing these questions on leadership in children’s ministry:

1) How can a children’s pastor/teacher connect with children? 2) What is the relationship of a children’s leader to parents? 3) How do you teach children the basics of discipleship? 4) What methods do you use and recommend for teaching children? 5) How would you define a successful children’s ministry?

Here is the first question we’ll discuss in this five part article:

1. How can a children’s pastor/teacher connect with children? I think you begin to connect with kids when they see that you care about them and have their interest at heart.  Children’s pastors and directors need to be approachable and friendly to all children, and show no favoritism.  They need to know that you are trustworthy, patient, even tempered, and fun to be with! It’s important to relate to kids at their level.  To do this, the children’s minister needs a variety of ways to build bridges of communication and connect with the different age groups of children in the church.  There are many ways to do this both using traditional means such as mailing out birthday and get well cards and making phone calls; and with technology such as a church website that has a place for children to interact. Special events outside of class time help build relationships as well.  Outings, parties, and missions outreach events provide special times for sharing conversation, and working together. Praying together is one of the most important ways to show children you care about their needs.

Additionally, it’s important to realize that every children’s leader—and teacher—has a unique personality and set of gifts and talents that can be used to bless the children in their care. Some are funny and entertaining, others are great storytellers, are highly creative, or excel at leadership and organization.   Each person can add outstanding qualities to your teaching team!  So remember,  there are many different ways to connect with children!  The ones listed in this article can serve to get you thinking about all the possibilities on your team!

God bless you as you serve Him today!

Verda Rubottom

Resources for Leading Children to Christ

Posted by Apr 23, 2015 Serving , , , , , , ,

I’m always on the look-out for good teaching resources, especially those that teach the Bible in a way that children can understand it. Recently, I came across a wonderful resource that clearly explains to children how they can know God in a personal way. The book, Come into My Heart, Lord Jesus, by Stormie Ormartian, is beautifully illustrated and will appeal to young children especially—although anyone would enjoy reading it.  In a sensitive, child appropriate manner, the author teaches children about the love of God, salvation, prayer, heaven, God’s promises, and how to receive Jesus into your heart.

Over the years, there have been conflicting theoretical discussions about the best age to present the Gospel to children. I think this is partly because adults often struggle to find the right words to explain the Gospel to children, and tend to rely on adult level explanations and definitions. But this book will help parents and teachers share the simplicity of the Gospel with children. And young readers will enjoy reading it on their own.

You may also be interested in reading the chapter on “Leading a Child to Christ”, in my book, First Steps for Effective Teaching:A Guide for Christian Educators, available in the “store” on this website. It will provide helpful guidance on this important subject.

God bless you as you serve Him today!

Verda

 

 

New Resource: Biographies of Super Achievers Who Changed Our World

Posted by Feb 24, 2015 Serving , , , , , , , ,

faces of truth royrogersOne of my goals for this blog is to share with you qualityfaces of truth Gutenberg 388060_511878172172439_1960402271_n educational resources that will be helpful in children’s ministries—and in teaching your own children. I’ve come across a wonderful book that I’m introducing today: Faces of Truth: A Collection of Historical Biographies, by Doug and Norma Latta. Here is an excerpt from their introduction:

“faces of truth george washington carver 182014_556534091040180_911414348_nThe premise of this book is to show what can be achieved through people of many races and in all walks of life when they let their Creator help them reach their full potential.  We have purposely chosen individuals from many centuries of Western cultural development who were super achievers in their fields, such as the arts, science, business, public service, war heroes, inventors, journalism athletics, etc…”

faces of truth pocahontasYour students will be inspired by learning about some of the greatest leaders of human history through the biographies that Doug has beautifully illustrated, and the stories Norma has carefully documented and brought to life through her creative writing. Doug and Norma are friends of ours who have a passion for inspiring young minds to push towards their true potential—and as teachers we share that passion. I’ve found this book to be of great help in teaching history to children and have purchased several copies for our family.

faces of truth Tom Landry 416913_544100828950173_1035743068_nIf you would like to learn more about this historical collection go to www.facesoftruth.com, where you can also order the book. And if you happen to live in the Tulsa area, you can meet Doug and Norma in person at their book signing at Mardel’s Bookstore (71st and Mingo) on March 21st, from 12:00 to 5:00 p.m.

Look for more resources to be listed soon!

God bless you today!

Verda

 

Steps to Effective Classroom Management in Sunday School and Children’s Church

Posted by Feb 14, 2015 Serving , , , , , , ,

lightstock_97579_small_verda_rubottom_ One of the first things I learned when I started teaching was that no matter how much you love children and love to teach them—you can’t do it well without discipline. I realized I needed to learn how to manage a class if I was going to be a good teacher!

Although every class is different (especially in church programs where attendance is often inconsistent)  and each child is unique—understanding them is the key! To deal with misbehavior, we need to determine the root causes,  so first I’m listing some common behavior issues in a typical Sunday school classroom or children’s church.  The second list gives suggestions on creating a peaceful environment where learning can flourish.

Common Causes of Misbehavior

  • Child is uncertain of the teacher’s expectations.
  • Conflicting rules in different classes, and with other teachers.
  • Boredom: children have little to keep their interest.
  • A general lack of respect for authority.
  • Family and/ or the child is under emotional stress.
  • Physical needs; overtired, thirsty, hungry, ADHD, illness, etc.
  • Child is seeking attention.
  • Child is discouraged or depressed.
  • Child has high energy level.
  • Teacher lacks classroom management skills and children are left to their own devices.
  • Not enough support staff.
  • Child has poor (uncooperative) attitude.

Steps to Effective Classroom Management

  • Be a caring teacher. Show your interest. Get down on their level.
  • Keep your class interesting and challenging.
  • Keep one step ahead of students—you are the leader!
  • Plan, prepare, and pray!
  • Have a classroom management plan. Make sure all staff knows the plan.
  • Anticipate potential problems; have resources and extra supplies on hand.
  • Balance activity with quiet times.
  • Communicate your expectations clearly.
  • Give child a “gentle” first time reminder. Don’t over react.
  • Give firm “teacher look” to a child who continues to disrupt the class.
  • Have an adult assistant sit next to the child.
  • Separate “talkers” for a limited period of time.
  • Enlist child’s cooperation; tell them what you need (i.e. better listening) and ask them for it.
  • Be consistent with your rules; no favoritism.
  • Recognize and commend good behavior and cooperation.
  • Reward with privileges, and special group activities (games, fun activities)
  • Pray for your students during the week.
  • Give out notes of appreciation. Even better, mail them. Kids love to get mail!

Remember, children want order too!  They quickly see when a teacher has lost control of the class, and begin to feel unsettled and insecure.  Sunday school and children’s church should be fun, interesting, and exciting! And with good planning—and prayer— it can be!   God has all the wisdom you need!  James 1:5 says, If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him.

For a more  thorough discussion on discipline and teacher tips,  order my book, First Steps for Effective Teaching.

God bless you today!

Verda    

“Learning to Serve” (Part 2)

Posted by Feb 2, 2015 Serving , , , , , , ,

Ashlee pictureI believe this topic is so important for children because it lays the foundation for a life of purpose—and helps them see wonderful possibilities for their future. So today I want to continue a discussion from one of my first posts last year (10/28/14) about teaching children to serve.

When we come to know Jesus as our Lord and Savior, and accept his free gift of salvation, we realize at some point, that he also has a job for us to do.  It’s wonderful to know that God actually wants to use us to accomplish his purposes on this earth!

For we are God’s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do. Ephesians 2:10 NIV

This is a good verse for children to memorize. It will help them value themselves as someone created by God—and will give them the assurance that God has planned something special for them to do with their lives.  If we want children to believe that they can be doers of the Word, and not merely spectators, we need to teach them these things:

  • God has a plan for their lives
  • Discipleship is for children too!
  • Children can serve their families, their church, their community, and the world.
  • Children are the church of tomorrow—and today!

The picture in this post is an example of what I’m saying. Ashlee Vann received the key to the city of Springfield, MO for her volunteer work at the Kid’s Café Food Pantry several years ago.  Active in her church, and a good student, Ashlee still found time to serve others in her community. I enjoy collecting articles like this of children  who have already learned that serving others is one of the keys to happiness and fulfillment in life.  There are many other examples, perhaps some in your own community that will inspire your students.

Valentine’s Day is a great time to teach our students about God’s love for them, and for all people.  Here is another portion from Scripture that is easy for all age groups to memorize: Galatians 5:13b….serve one another in love.  (14) The entire law is summed up in a single command: “Love your neighbor as yourself.”

God bless you as you serve Him today!

Verda

Understanding: The Key to Helping Children Learn and Grow

Posted by Jan 19, 2015 Serving , , , ,

Britlee Chrissa 8-10 backyardWhen I first started teaching, I didn’t realize how much the physical and emotional needs of children could affect their learning.  After having children of my own, this became very evident to me, I think partly because we’re generally more in tune with our own children’s physical needs, their emotional make up, and their capabilities.

After this realization, my tendency was to view the growth of other children through the lens of my knowledge and experience with my own children.  While this was helpful, it was limited.  But the more I observed children from various backgrounds, in and out of the classroom, at church, and in my college studies, the more I grew in my understanding of how they learn.

What I learned, and what good teachers know, is that it’s important to look at all aspects of a child’s development.  For example, a physically mature child who is in the ninety percentile range on the growth charts may not necessarily be as mature in other areas of their development, though we often expect them to be because of their physical appearance.

Often people have expectations of children that are either too high or too low.  This can cause unnecessary tension for the child and the teacher, or the child and the parent, and can make learning more difficult for the child.  But when we’re familiar with “whole child”—that is their physical, emotional/social, cognitive, as well as their spiritual development—we can be more effective as we teach them individually.

It’s always a challenge to meet the needs of individual children when teaching a large class or children’s church because of the varying ages and maturity levels that are represented.  Your class or children’s church will typically be a mix, and possibly a wide range of mature and less mature students. But as you get to know your students better, it will be easier and you’ll be able to take these things into consideration as you plan. Keep in mind this may require making adjustments in your curriculum to meet the needs of your students, and that is fine.  Ask yourself questions like these when you’re planning lessons and other activities for the children you are teaching now.

  • What are their age characteristics?
  • What do they know?
  • How do they think?
  • What do they feel?
  • What do they need?
  • What are their spiritual needs?

The important thing for us teachers is to keep learning and growing ourselves—and seek God for the wisdom we need for every child in our care. Proverbs 1: 5 puts it this way, Let the wise listen and add to their learning, and let the discerning get guidance.

God Bless You Today!

Verda

In my blog today, I’ve shared some thoughts and excerpts from my book, First Steps for Effective Teaching