In my previous post we established the many benefits of using music in children’s ministry. It’s important to know that you don’t need to be a musician to take advantage of these benefits. Today there are so many ways to incorporate music into your class that weren’t possible a few years ago, and it’s easier for any teacher to implement in their planning.
Here’s just one example. I recently bought an inexpensive, portable speaker device small enough to carry in my purse to use with my iPhone and iPad to teach my class some new songs available on the internet. It provided just the volume I needed and filled my classroom with the sound of singers and a band performing the new songs. The actions of the songs could be viewed on my iPad if I wanted to teach them too. I often lead the children in singing a cappella as well, but it’s great to have the availability of ready made musical groups at my finger tips. It’s helpful to have a technical person on your teaching team to help, but if that isn’t your strength just ask a teenager and they can usually give you the technical help you need.
I like to have worship songs playing on a CD as the children come in on Sunday mornings. It sets the right tone for the morning, and sometimes they even sing along as they’re gathering at the “early bird” activity tables.
In past years, I’ve purchased visualized songs for leading children’s worship, but now I only do that occasionally because it’s so easy to make them. With the benefits of computer technology and being able to enlarge fonts and add graphics and photos to the words, we can now make attractive visuals at home quickly and easily. I keep a supply of colored paper and poster board at home to back the computer printed copies. If you’re artistic and can illustrate the songs, the kids will enjoy singing along even more!
It’s good to involve the children actively in worship as much as possible. Each week I choose volunteers to help me lead music. I involve as many as possible. Even it they don’t excel musically, they like to hold the visuals or help lead the actions to the songs. The other children participate by singing and doing the motions too.
Another way to encourage participation is to use rhythm instruments occasionally. Even older children enjoy this. Quiet, shy kids may surprise you with their enthusiasm when you bring out the instruments. Of course they will need guidance, a well chosen song, and a teacher who can keep good rhythm to make this form of worship successful for your class. Read Psalms 100 with the children before they play and then encourage everyone to join in and praise the Lord! I really believe the Lord is blessed and honored by this kind of worship!
These are just a few ideas on ways to use music in your children’s ministry. You can review my previous post, Part 1, for a more in-depth look at how valuable music is when teaching children. For years educators have known about the mental, social and emotional benefits of music for children. As Christian teachers we can add the spiritual benefits for our students! The Bible is filled with Scripture that encourages us to use music to praise the Lord!
Sing to the LORD a new song, his praise in the assembly of the saints.
Psalm 149:1 NIV
God Bless,
Verda Rubottom
