Seems like we are rocketing toward the future. New innovation, technology, and changes are happening so rapidly we can hardly keep up with it.
Around 35% of the world's population is under 20 years of age; known as
Generation Z and Generation Alpha. Don't forget the newest generation as well...Gen Beta.
As we look out at the future, we have to ask ourselves what children's ministry will look like...even just 10 years from now.
As I research and study the next 10 years in children's ministry, major changes and innovations seem to move into my insight.
Let's talk about what I believe children's ministry will look like in 10 years.
Children will be less religious than today's children.
The number of families who attend church is decreasing and will continue to do so unless we have a major revival or spiritual awakening. More and more young adults are less likely to identify with a religion or be tied to a church. These young adults will be the parents of children in the next 10 years.
Back in 2007, nones only made up 16% of Americans. The "nones" are clarified as people who have no religion. When Americans are asked to check a box indicating their religious affiliation, 28% check "none." Religious "nones" will raise children who are religious "nones."
Children's ministries will be more diverse than today.
Diversity is a good thing. It's what Heaven will look like. As America continues to become more diverse, so children will be more diverse.
Since 2010, the U.S. population has become more racially and ethnically diverse. Here are some examples among some of our states.
- In 2010, Nevada was 62.5% diverse. In 2020, it was 68.8% diverse.
- In 2010, Maryland was 60.7% diverse. In 2020, it was 67.3% diverse.
- In 2010, Georgia was 58.8% diverse. In 2020, it was 64.1% diverse.
- In 2010, New York was 60.2% diverse. In 2020, it was 65.8% diverse.
Churches that reach children and their families will reflect the diversity of their communities.
Children's ministries will not use DVD players.
This is happening now to a large extent. Streaming is dominating all usage of video content. In ten years or sooner, kids will be asking what a DVD is. Cable TV companies will cease to exist unless they make the switch to being a totally streaming service.
Digital Bibles.
I know the arguments. I get it. At times, a hard copy of God's Word does seem better. We must also remember that the Bible is God's Word no matter if it is a hard copy or digital copy. Today's kids are growing up with digital books...including a digital Bible. 10 years from now, I believe kids will primarily read God's Word on their phone, tablet, laptop or computer.
More and more children's ministry leaders will work remotely during the week.
I can personally attest to this already. In my last job in a local church, I was given the opportunity to work at home. I spend at least half of my time working at home or in a coffee shop. I believe this trend will continue to gain rapid acceptability.
The future of work will be hybrid, with in-person and remote aspects.
The number of children and families who worship online will continue to increase.
This is not ideal in my opinion. I believe children should worship physically among other believers. I believe children should have face-to-face connections with volunteers. I believe children should be prayed for in person.
Yes, this can be accomplished to some extent virtually, but I don't think it is the same as in person. But virtual worship is here to stay and we must adapt, if we are going to reach and disciple the next generation. In ten years, I believe we will see a balance of both in person and online worship experiences.
A.I.
A.I. will help kids learn more about God's Word.
A.I. will help create Bible lessons for teachers.
A.I. will cause kids to talk more and type less. Kids are growing up talking with Alexa, Siri, and Google Assistant. This will effect how they learn at church. Kids will explore and learn through interactive games and activities with A.I.
A.I. powered lessons will adapt to children’s individual needs and learning styles. They will provide tailored lessons, exercises, and feedback, which help children engage and grasp new concepts more readily.
A.I. will lead to their eventually being robotic volunteers in some aspects of children's ministry. Normally children's ministries don't have the budget to purchase cutting-edge educational resources. But mark it down, there will come a time, as A.I. becomes more affordable, that children's ministries will move into A.I. volunteers to supplement some of their live volunteers.
A.I. will play a major role in how children born today experience the
world 10 years from now.
Immersive learning experiences.
Virtual reality will be used to create learning experiences that will immerse children right into the story. Kids will be able to walk on the battle field with David. Kids will be able to help Noah build the ark. Kids will be able to watch as Moses parts the Red Sea. Kids will be able to help pass out the food to the 5,000. The lines between physical and digital worlds will become blurred which will lead to amazing learning experiences.
The future is in the hands of the children that you and I minister to. Today’s kids are not waiting for the future to come to them, they are actively shaping it. They are ready to make a significant impact. They want their voices to be heard and their actions to inspire change. Adults who believe in young people and provide mentorship and guidance can have a huge role in their future success.
It's up to us to help mold them into a life that is passionate about knowing Jesus and following Him.
Ready for the next 10 years? Let's go!
Your turn. What do you think children's ministry will look like in 10 years. Feel free to share your thoughts and insights in the comment section below.
