I often talk about the fact that we are missionaries to kids. How does a missionary prepare to minister to the people he or she is called to reach?
They prepare by learning as much as they can about the culture, traditions, likes, dislikes and language of the people they are trying to reach with the Gospel.
We should also prepare ourselves to reach children by learning about their likes, dislikes, favorite shows, websites, movies, sports teams, etc.
When you make the time to enter the world of kids and learn about what they like, they will open the door of their heart and listen to what you have to say.
You've heard the statement - "People don't care how much you know until they know how much you care." When you learn about the world of today's kids, it will help you be more effective in reaching and discipling them.
Here is a current list of some of the most popular toys that today's children love. You can use these as talking points to connect with kids and start meaningful conversations with them.
Action Figure of the Year: Jurassic World Dominion Super Colossal Gigantosaurus (Mattel)
Collectible of the Year: Lego's Minifigures The Muppets (Legos)
Creative Toy of the Year: Magic Mixies Magical Crystal Ball (Moose Toys)
Doll of the Year: Black Panther: Wakanda Forever Fresh Fierce Collection by The Fresh Dolls (World of EPI Company)
Game of the Year: Pokémon Trading Card Game: Pokémon GO Elite Trainer Box (The Pokémon Company International)
Grown-Up Toy of the Year: Lego's Ideas The Office (Legos Systems)
License of the Year: Squishmallows (Jazwares)
Outdoor Toy of the Year: Twister SPLASH (WowWee)
Playset of the Year: Lego's Super Mario Adventures with Peach Starter Course
Plush Toy of the Year: 16″ Squishmallows (Jazwares)
Preschool Toy of the Year: Crayola Color & Erase Reusable Mat (Crayola)
Specialty Toy of the Year: Ann Williams Craft-tastic Nature Scavenger Hunt Potions (PlayMonster Group) and Snap Circuits: Green Energy (ELENCO)
STEAM Toy of the Year: Bill Nye’s VR Science Kit (Abacus Brands)
Vehicle of the Year: Lego's Technic McLaren Formula 1 Race Car (Lego Systems)
I would encourage you to make copies of this list of toys and give it to your children's ministry volunteers. They can use this list for striking up conversations with kids.
