By: Jeremy Carroll
In Healthy Habits, Part 1, we explored first foundations for ministry habits, specifically personal priorities. In part 2, let’s discuss the heartbeat of ministry, the reason we do what we do—people. Yes, programs and curriculum matter because they are tools for ministry, but through true discipleship happens best in the context of personal relationships. Kids and families don’t just need a place to attend; they need a place to belong and know that they matter—where someone notices when they’re absent and remembers their name from week to week. Let’s explore three healthy habits that help create the kind of ministry environment that fosters meaningful connection.
Healthy Habit #1: Cultivate Authentic Relational Connection
Every kid longs to belong. Research and experience tell us that when kids feel relationally connected, they are more at peace and less anxious in their surroundings. And when we earn this trust, their hearts will also be more open to the gospel message. Paul’s letters are filled with relational language. He didn’t just teach theology; he talked about people. “I thank God for every remembrance of you” (Philippians 1:3). Ministry isn’t just about teaching lessons and Bible stories; it’s also about knowing and being known in authentic, meaningful relationships.
Practical ways to build connection:
- Create an atmosphere of extravagant welcome. Greet kids by name, celebrate their arrival, and help visitors feel like insiders from the moment they walk in—even if it’s their very first time.
- Break down barriers. Avoid assumptions about prior attendance or Bible knowledge. Use inclusive language like “Earlier in the Bible we learn…” instead of “Remember last week?”
- Use fun as a bridge to the heart and soul. Start sessions with active games or name activities. Shared laughter breaks down walls and helps kids feel part of the group.
When kids feel seen and valued, they’re more likely to engage—and more likely to return.
Healthy Habit #2: Teach the Way Kids Learn
Kids don’t all learn the same way. Some thrive on visuals, others on movement, music, words, or hands-on experiences—and most kids need more than one of those in the same lesson. Effective leaders become “learners of learners,” adapting their approach to meet the variety of our kids’ needs.
Practical tips for adaptive teaching:
- Incorporate variety. Mix storytelling with visuals, music, and physical activities. For example, act out a Bible story or use rhythm to reinforce memory verses.
- Leverage curiosity and play. The act of play isn’t wasted time—it’s how kids process and apply truth. Use games and creative activities to make learning memorable and accessible.
- Engage multiple senses. The more senses involved—seeing, hearing, touching—the deeper the learning experience can be.
When we teach the way kids learn, we move beyond simply transferring information to real, lasting transformation.
Healthy Habit #3: Partner with Families and Equip Leaders
Reaching the next generation cannot effectively be done alone. It’s true that the Bible addresses parents as the primary disciplers of their kids, but they are not meant to do it alone. The famous Deuteronomy 6 passage was given within the assembly of God’s people. Ministry leaders must partner with parents to reach each child on his/her spiritual journey.
Practical steps:
- Equip parents for everyday discipleship. Provide simple, realistic tools—conversation starters, short devotion prompts, or take‑home activities—that help parents engage faith conversations during ordinary moments at home, especially during the moments “along the road and “when you wake up/lie down” moments. (See Deuteronomy 6:7.)
- Communicate consistently and clearly. Let parents know what their kids are learning and why it matters. Regular updates, simple summaries, and suggested follow‑up questions help parents feel informed, included, and confident in reinforcing truth throughout the week.
- Affirm parents as the primary faith influencers. As you remind parents that they matter more than any program or event, encourage them, pray for them, and celebrate their efforts—especially when faith feels messy or imperfect at home.
Partnership multiplies impact. When families and leaders work together, kids experience consistent discipleship both at church and at home.
Conclusion
These relational ministry habits aren’t merely boxes to check on a checklist—they’re strategic expressions of the gospel and our calling in ministry. By cultivating authentic connections, teaching the way kids learn, and developing true partnerships with families, you create a ministry where kids feel they belong, truth takes root, and lives are changed.
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