Articles Zone

Part 1 of a 10 part series on teaching like Jesus did!

Part 10 of a 10 part series on teaching like Jesus did!

Part 2 of a 10 part series on teaching like Jesus did!

Part 3 of a 10 part series on teaching like Jesus did!

Part 4 of a 10 part series on teaching like Jesus did!

Part 5 of a 10 part series on teaching like Jesus did!

Part 6 of a 10 part series on teaching like Jesus did!

Part 7 of a 10 part series on teaching like Jesus did!

Part 8 of a 10 part series on teaching like Jesus did!

Part 9 of a 10 part series on teaching like Jesus did!

Understanding children's capacity for making transitions - for a better children's church experience

A Book Review by Larry Shallenberger on The Gospel According to Harry Potter by Connie Neal.

Capturing Your Child's Heart

Like most folks, I was saddened to hear of the passing of the "Crocodile Hunter", Steve Irwin. As I was reflecting on his impact, I remembered that I had often used the "Crocodile Hunter" as an illustration of qualities we look for in children's ministers.

There is a difference between Ministry and entertainment. Our services can be very entertaining but we cannot forget about the ministry.

A practical strategy for confronting the choices that children make and the subsequent consequences.

What is our motivation in evaluating events in our ministry? Is it to see our church grow or the big picture of Kingdom growth?

In order for some of us to be courageous leaders we need to do some things right up front. Here is a quick list!

Getting stuck in a rut is almost as bad as sitting there like a bump on a log - tackling a problem creatively will open a world of opportunity to you! Take a risk! try something new!

I argue in this article that creativity is not limited to the arena of the arts, and that it can provide a context for spiritual formation, even in those who at first blush seem to lack noticeable talent in specific creative endeavors.

I have been holding a monthly date night for the parents while we have a blast with the children. Kids bring money for food while parents go out on "a date" from 6-10 pm. We play games and do a bunch of fun stuff. It's a blast!! Parents and kids love it because we have a bunch of fun. It's a way for us the church to promote the sanctity of marriage.

Conflict is hard, but it doesn't have to be impossible. If we approach it well - we can get through it.

Navigating the various kinds of feedback you might receive with a view toward crafting appropriate responses.

If you seek to be effective in your ministry with children, it is essential that you make the effort to learn and understand the world of kids. As kids see that you are interested in what interests them, they will in turn become interested in what interests you, namely, God and His Word! Having a working knowledge of the world of kids not only provides you with a pathway right into their hearts, but it's a lot of fun too!

Did you know that Children's Ministry is in the business of investments? That's right, investments. But our investments are far more important than any monetary one could be. We invest in the eternal lives of children.

Do you often cry out for help with staffing? Do you find yourself asking God for more workers on a consistent basis? Do you question if God cares about this area of children’s ministry?  

In this article I compare hidden sin to improvised explosive devices found in fields of battle. I briefly explore the effect this has on our families when the spiritual IEDs are planted and not dealt with properly.

Sometimes we forget that children's ministry leaders are humans and that they have needs just like any other church member. In this article I explore some of those dynamics with a view toward gaining realistic expectations and developing appropriate support systems for the CM leader.

I believe there are a number of ways in which children's ministry volunteers need support from their leaders. In this article I briefly explore five key things that seem relevant in just about any ministry context. Use these ideas to spark creativity in your own leadership.

Here are four key thoughts on family ministry as I strive to figure out how to apply it to my ministry context in light of the broader conversation occurring in the Western Hemisphere. They represent some of the concerns I face heading into a new season at my church.

The kids in our children's ministries deserve to see faith in you. Fear over the future will not bring victory. Kids do not need to pick up on your fear of the future even if you feel justified in your "concerns."

Everyone makes mistakes - God's Correction and Blessings come with our ability to walk out obedience

God loves children more than anything. This is a snapshot of references in the Bible where God talks about kids.

The Wordless Book has no words or pictures but it shouts the gospel message loud and clear through the familiar language of colors.

Bible stories are easier for kids to understand and apply if you break them down and serve them in small parts.

Helpful advice for every Children's Ministry worker to determine his/her priorities and purpose for ministry.

Parents can protect their kids from online dangers while teaching them about the importance of accountability in the Christian life -- Covenant Eyes accountability software

Wing-tipped shoes are outdated.  What about the methods you use to teach young children?

A very short parable in the form of a mini-screen play based on Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back, relating to children's ministry leadership, apathy, and volunteer appreciation.

Jesus used objects lessons all the time!

Here is a list of questions concerning children’s and family ministry in small churches with which I am currently wrestling.

What lessons did the Kidologist learn early on in ministry besides not playing games with marshmallows in a room with red carpet?

Scripture is inspired, contains authority over our lives, is a guide in spiritual matters, is significant in knowing God and His will, and is useful for explaining and defending our beliefs. But having kids memorize scripture is crazy hard. Read how the use of a mnemonic tool really works in helping get God's word memorized.  

The importance of providing a time of response for children who have heard the Gospel message or who want to respond to the message or pray for others.

Helpful hints on how parents can bring the reality of the message of the cross to their children in a relevant and appropriate way.

Are we ministering with the end in mind? Here’s is what I mean by that. Do we have an end goal in mind for a child as they grow up through our children’s ministry, then through our youth ministry and then on to adulthood. Another words we can say we want a young person to be able to do this or say this when they are all grown up.

Harrowing and hilarious children's ministry moments may contribute to some grey hair and wrinkles, but God gives strength, energy and a sense of humor for the ride!

A comparison between Santa, the Easter Bunny and Jesus

A creative way to encourage children and parents to communicate with their children's pastor/leader.