Show Kids You Care...Then They Will Listen to You

We have often heard this statement.

People don't care how much you know until they know how much you care.

It is so true. The same can be said about kids as well.  

They are not going to listen to you just because you are the "children's pastor."

They are not going to listen to you just because you are a good Bible teacher.

They are not going to listen to you just because you have a college or seminary certificate on the wall.

You have to earn the right to be heard by kids.  I'm not talking about making kids sit still and be quiet while you are teaching.  Just because a kid is sitting still because you forced them to do so doesn't mean they are hearing what you have to say. 

Getting kids to listen to you starts by showing them you care.  When they realize that you really care about them, they will open their heart to hear what you are saying. 

Show them you care by spending time with them before class starts instead of being in the back looking at your cell phone.  

Show them you care by knowing when their birthday is. 

Show them you care by listening to them talk in your small group or class.

Show them you care by praying with them.

Show them you care by learning what their name is and calling them by name each week. 

Show them you are by spending time with their family outside of church services. 

Last night I went to the baseball field.  My nephew and some of the other boys from my class at church were playing. As I talked with them and encouraged them before the game for a few minutes, I gained a little more "he cares about us" assets. 

I promise you this weekend these boys will listen a little better because they know the teachers and volunteers care about them.  

Show the kids in your ministry that you care about them.  When they grasp this, it will be a game-changer for you and the kids.