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
