Second only to providing a rich environment where kids can fall in love with Jesus … is the importance of partnering with parents in this thing called Kids Ministry. Six simple observations that will help you achieve success in this category:
#1: Minister to parents/families in times of need.
- Try to stay current on family health issues and emotional crises.
- “Be there” for families when they just need your presence, not necessarily your sermons.
#2: Brag on their kid(s) to them.
- Send written notes to parents congratulating them on their kids successes.
- Show up at some of their kids activities.
#3: Keep in touch.
- Text/call parents for no reason other than just to “check on them.”
- Communicate/communicate/communicate about church activities/opportunities of service for their kids and families.
#4: Give them tools to help them be the spiritual leaders of their kids.
- Provide training on what the Bible teaches about kids and conversion.
- Make sure parents know about practical tools to help with daily discipleship opportunities with their kids.
#5: Find ways for them to serve in your church’s kids ministry.
- Never assume that parents don’t want to teach kids. Ask them!
- Some will never teach, but, they will pray, build, bake or chaperone.
#6: Provide ways for them to feel successful as a parent.
- Once a week send a text with a brief/simple parenting tip.
- Personally communicate with parents that you are praying for their child.
Jerry Vogel is an Editorial Ministry Specialist in Lifeway Kids. He is a graduate of Dallas Baptist University and has served over 40 years in Kids Ministry at the local church level as well as at Lifeway. Jerry currently teaches four-year-olds at his church.
