5 Must-Do’s for Newly Hired Children’s Ministry Leaders
If you’re new to a children’s ministry role, check out these 5 must-do’s for new children’s ministry leaders.
When I was first hired as a part-time children’s ministry leader, I had no formal experience. Sure, I’d volunteered for Sunday school and helped out during VBS, but when I stepped up to being a children’s ministry director, I found that it was a totally different experience.
Maybe your experience is like mine and you are just starting your journey as a children’s ministry leader, or maybe you’ve been thrown into the job unexpectedly. Whatever the case, here are some must-do’s to help you get on the right track to success.
5 Must-Do’s for Newly Hired Children’s Ministry Leaders
1. Pick out a curriculum
Around 1 in 5 churches write their own children’s ministry curriculum, and for a long time I was included in that group. Freelance writer Valerie Van Kooten wrote an interesting article about the cons to writing your own materials. While every situation is different, many find that the challenge to prepare and test lessons beforehand can be extremely draining. Check out this guide to help you find the right curriculum for you.
2. Recruit a team
You’re only as good as your team, so here are some quick tips for volunteers. When you recruit, do it one-on-one; mass announcements won’t help. Find jobs that fit your volunteers-don’t force them into something they’re not made for. And finally, don’t forget to train them. Check out this article for more tips from those in the trenches.
3. Safety first
As you build your team, screen incoming volunteers. I’ve heard some people say that doing background checks is extreme, but when you consider that nearly 1 out of 10 people who volunteer to work with kids has a criminal conviction on their record, background checks are essential. Don’t worry, it’s super easy to do checks like these with programs like Shepherd’s Watch.
4. Set a budget
If you never experienced a leadership role in children’s ministry, the budget might be the last thing on your mind. But budgeting is an important part of being a good steward of your church’s funds. This article will help you learn the in’s and out’s of setting a budget for your ministry. Not only will you be financially responsible, it will help you discover what your ministry’s goals really are.
5. Make a plan and work it
During her second interview for a children’s ministry director job, Lois Lindberg had a moment of panic. She was overwhelmed when saw binders and binders kids’ registration forms. But she got the job, and with good planning she flourished. Read her story here and find out why planning can make all the difference.
Want more articles for children’s ministry leaders? Check these out.
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