How to Beat the Summer Slump

Summer is always a fun time of the year in Kids Ministry. Many of you spend all of spring and the better part of winter planning for the specialness of summer. Maybe it’s VBS, camp, mission trips, Wacky Wednesdays, or Friday Fundays—you’ve got summer covered. But, if you’re anything like me, you might lose some steam about halfway through. Don’t worry—it’s normal! Here are three ways to beat the summer slump:

1. Don’t skip your Sabbath: In the craziness of summer church events, your own personal vacations or time off with family, and the lack of routine that you might be accustomed to in the school year, it might be tempting to skip your time of rest before the Lord. Let me encourage you to not do that! Schedule time to get in the Word and pray. This will be like wind in your sails to keep you from the summer slump that tends to hit around mid-July!
2. Do take a vacation: After VBS or other summer events, be sure to take some time off.  Hopefully you have time already blocked on your calendar. Even if you do not go anywhere, find time to completely check out. Delegate tasks to fellow colleagues or volunteers, turn on your “out of office” settings in your email and don’t check it until you return, and try your hardest not to take calls or texts! Enjoy being away—even for a short time!
3. Be content in this season: The nature of ministry is always looking forward, planning for the next season. There is no escaping the necessity for great planning. However, some of us can get so caught up in what’s next that we forget to enjoy the season in which we currently live. Enjoy summer for what it is—a break from strict schedules, a chance to see God do big things in the lives of kids, and hopefully, the opportunity to take a break and enjoy His abundant love for us.

You can beat that summer slump and do great ministry while experiencing all the joy this special season offers! Now grab your sunblock and don’t miss a thing!

But those who trust in the Lord will renew their strength; they will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not become weary, they will walk and not faint. Isaiah 40:31 (CSB)

 

Jana Magruder serves as the Director of Lifeway Kids. She is a Baylor graduate and offers a wealth of experience and passion for kids ministry, education, and publishing. She is the author of Kids Ministry that Nourishes and Life Verse Creative Journal, which she co-authored with her teenage daughter. She and her husband, Michael, along with their three children reside in Nashville.