RELEVANT CHILDREN'S MINISTRY

There are two little words that carry a lot of weight.  Your volunteers and staff are very aware of how you use them.

Here they are - "I" and "We."

Use "I" when there has been a blunder or blame needs to be shouldered.  This shows your team that you take responsibility instead of pointing fingers when things fall short or go wrong.

Use "we" when something has been accomplished.  This shows that you give the credit to the team when there is a win.

Those two little words have a huge impact on how you communicate as a leader.  Use them wisely.

Do you want to make a lasting impact on the children God has called you to minister to?

For this to happen, you've got to make a heart connection with them.  Once the heart connection is made, it opens the door for life impact. 

Here's 10 simple, but high-impact ways, you can connect with the kids you minister to.

• Get to know them personally.  Go out of your way to talk with them.

• Listen to them. 

• Find out what music, TV shows, movies, and video games they like.

• Entrust them with a specific responsibility in class.  

•  Let them know who you are.  Tell them stories from your childhood.

• Talk to their parents.  Ask questions.  What are their struggles?  What areas would they like to see their child grow in?  What are their needs?

• Ask them what they are passionate about.

• Affirm them with your words.

• Be kind and loving.

• Let them know you care. Tell them with your words and show them with your actions.

Your turn.  What are some other simple ways you connect with the kids you minister to?  Share your ideas with us in the comment section below.

Why do we talk down to kids?  I think we forget they are people. 

I have found that the best way to communicate with a child is to talk with him or her just like I would an adult.  Kids respond better to this than using "baby talk." 

This even works with preschoolers.  This past weekend, I was brought a 4 year old who "didn't want to stay in class."  I sat down with him and asked him point blank, "Are you a big kid?"  

He quickly answered "yes."  I then said, "You're not a baby.  You're a big kid.  Why don't you act your age and go into your class with the other big kids."

It clicked and he went into the room.  If I had babied him, I think the opposite would have happened.  

Of course, I am not talking about using big words or ever being harsh or unkind.  Our words should always be spoken with love and care.

The bottom line is this:  Treat kids with honor and respect.  Reflect this in your tone of voice and words and they will respond. 

Make sure they attend the service.  Watching online doesn't count.

Don't ask them to stay over and serve an extra service.  Even if you are in a bind.

Don't let them serve in multiple ministries.  The "S" on their Super Christian shirt will eventually unravel and fall off.

Give them time off.  Maybe even the summer off.

Make sure they are in their sweet spot.  Nothing leads to burnout faster than serving in a position you are not gifted for or passionate about.

Put them with someone they enjoy serving with.  People who serve long term normally have close relationships with the people they serve with.

Say thank you every week.  Many volunteers have never heard the words "thank you."  They feel like no one cares whether they serve or not.  With words and actions, show them that they highly valued.  Let them know they matter.  Remind them that they are making a difference.  

What are some other ways we can help volunteers avoid burnout?  

Share your thoughts and ideas in the comment section below.