Podcasts about kidmin

How do you decide which curriculum among the over 80 companies is the right one for your church? In this episode, Amber gives you steps to take and lots of questions to ask when deciding what curriculum to use in your ministry. Resources Mentioned in This Episode:Exploring the Bible Through History - https://amzn.to/4v74d7gTop 50 Bible Lesson Book - https://amzn.to/3SEwV0UIntentional Children's Ministry - https://amzn.to/4eg2ANuRenewaNation Curriculum - https://familyministry.org/curriculum/

Safe ministry is the foundation of everything we do. When children feel safe, they are free to grow, belong, and encounter God.In this episode, we explore how to create environments that are physically, emotionally, and spiritually safe. From building strong systems and training teams to fostering a culture of care and accountability, we unpack what it takes to lead safe and healthy ministry.Featuring insights from leading global KidMin voices, this conversation will equip you to create spaces where kids, families, and teams can thrive with confidence.

Teaching time is where it's at in children's ministry. In this episode, Amber shares some fun, interactive teaching activities to make lesson time come alive. Resources mentioned in the episode:Intentional Children's Ministry - https://amzn.to/4e1LBylDry Erase Pockets - https://amzn.to/4wZRPr4Wiki Sticks - https://amzn.to/49uKXrUMagic Water Soluble Paper - https://amzn.to/4o0EJ99Donkey Hat - https://amzn.to/4x3U5NYShark Hat - https://amzn.to/3PNmd7vEar Headband - https://amzn.to/4dW26MpFire Headband - https://amzn.to/4uduoboThis list may contain affiliate links. If you decide to purchase through them, I may earn a small commission at no extra expense to you. I only share things I actually use, love, and endorse!

On the KMC Collective Podcast, the team discusses why celebrating kids ministry milestones—especially promotion weekends like Move Up Sunday—matters for children and parents, and emphasizes being intentional and consistent rather than extravagant.   They compare different promotion timing approaches (beginning of summer vs. end of summer/fall) and share practical celebration ideas such as preview weekends, gradual transitions, a “slide into your new grade” event, inflatables, photo booths, postcards, ice cream sundaes, and low-budget décor.   The conversation highlights partnering with student ministry to help fourth/fifth graders transition to middle school through early visits, repeated touchpoints, shared worship elements, and involving youth as leaders in kids ministry. They close by encouraging leaders to create simple “confetti moments” of recognition and celebration and invite listeners to continue the conversation in their Facebook group and KidMinPlus.net    

What does a healthy church look like? What does healthy leadership look like? In this episode, Amber is joined by Stan Givens (a senior pastor with over 40 years of experience) and his son and ministry partner, Josh Givens (of 6:14 Ministries). Join the conversation for practical advice that will help you disciple and remain in ministry for the long haul. Learn more about 6:14 Ministries: https://614ministries.org/Listen to their podcast, The Shepherds Circle: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-shepherds-circle/id1796331013

Flannelgraphs. Silly bands. Veggie Tales. We've seen trends come and go (and some come back) in kidmin, but in this episode, we'll learn what never goes out of style in children's ministry. This episode will encourage and challenge you. Resources Mentioned: Intentional Children's Ministry - https://shop.renewanation.org/products/intentional-childrens-ministry-how-your-church-can-disciple-children-with-a-lifelong-faith-in-jesus-pre-order-to-be-released-january-2025Family Ministry Academy - https://familyministry.org/Flannelgraph Tutorial on IG - https://www.instagram.com/amberpike_intentionalkidmin/

A clear vision is powerful, but it only works when your team truly understands and owns it.In this episode, we explore how to align your team around a shared vision. From casting vision clearly to creating buy in and consistency across your ministry, we unpack practical ways to get everyone moving in the same direction.Featuring insights from leading global KidMin voices, this conversation will help you build unity, strengthen your team, and lead with clarity and purpose.

After two decades of taking kids to camp, Amber shares some must-haves to add to your packing list and things that will make your week of camp easier. Resources Mentioned in the EpisodeManderley Christian Camp - https://www.manderley.camp/Hair Tinsel - https://amzn.to/4trlmqJPop Up Stool - https://amzn.to/42wmJteSpot It - https://amzn.to/3R4yAMQPuke Bags - https://amzn.to/42A0mTM*This list may contain affiliate links. If you decide to purchase through them, I may earn a small commission at no extra expense to you. I only share things I actually use, love, and endorse!

In this episode, Amber catches up with author friend Joshua Cooley to talk about his new book, Heroes of the Bible Devotional 2. Why do kids need to learn about heroes of the Bible and the faith?How does this book teach the narrative of Scripture?What is moralistic theology, and how does this devotion avoid it?Follow Joshua online at https://joshuacooleyauthor.com/Grab his new devotional: Heroes of the Bible Devotional 2. https://amzn.to/4tqy0qc*Amazon link is an affiliate link. There is no added expense to you. 

Join Hannah Augustine as she connects with Christy and Jonathan Hooper, the creative minds behind "P.R.A.Y. Pals," an interactive children's book designed to teach kids the power of prayer. Discover how the P.R.A.Y. acronym—Praise, Repent, Ask, Yield—can transform prayer into a meaningful practice for children and families. Get your copies of P.R.A.Y. Pals at thegoodbook.com/pray-pals.Download your FREE month of preschool and elementary lessons at BriteCurriculum.com. 

Don't let your volunteer meeting get skipped or met with groans. Plan your meeting so it guarantees success! This episode gives you four important planning steps. Resources mentioned in the episode:Episode 156: Planning Your Kidmin Team Training: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-kidmin-huddle/id1533602973?i=1000747943287Bonus Resource: Share this encouragement video with your team!https://youtube.com/shorts/z-aWT77XPE0?feature=share

Over half of America's children are growing up without close contact with their biological fathers, and more than 670,000 kids pass through foster care each year. But what if the church saw this crisis as the greatest mission field right in our neighborhoods? In this powerful episode, Hannah Augustine and Dr. Alan Bixler from COMPACT delve into the heartbreaking statistics and reveal how fostering and adoption are not just social issues—they're divine opportunities for ministry and renewal.Explore the amazing curriculum The Park has to offer at parklearning.com. Use the code KIDZMATTER through 5/31/26 for 20% off any annual subscription.

How do you grow your church from one or two families, or even no families? In this episode, Amber walks you through how you can grow your church and gain families. She shares how she has grown her church from a few families, some of which were ready to leave, to the upcoming problem of where to fit all of the children. Check out the resources mentioned in the episode:Intentional Children's Ministry: https://amzn.to/4ts8eCE Top 50 Bible Lessons About Ordinary People in God's Extraordinary Plan: https://amzn.to/48j3JBUKidmin Coaching: https://familyministry.org/childrens-ministry-coaching/*Some links are affiliate links. I may earn a commission at no additional cost to you. 

There's a common stereotype that serving with a kids' ministry is predominantly a female role. However, as Curt Nelson and Hannah Augustine discuss in this podcast episode, boys and girls must see godly men serving in the church. Think outside the box and help the men of your church find their place in KidMin!Visit OrientalTrading.com/faith and use the code KIDZMATTER26 to get FREE shipping on orders of $25 or more, plus $10 off any $100 order. To test out Curt Nelson's Spyence curriculum with two free sample lessons, visit spyence.com.

Great kids ministry is not built on programs alone. It is built on a deep dependence on the Holy Spirit.In this episode, we explore what it means to lead a Spirit led ministry. How do we create space for the Holy Spirit to move in our teams, our services, and in the lives of the children we lead? And how can leaders stay spiritually grounded while guiding others?Featuring insights from leading global KidMin voices, this conversation will encourage you to lead with faith, listen to the Spirit, and build a ministry shaped by God's presence.

Easter Sunday is over — but your job as a kids ministry leader is just getting started. If you're tempted to check out, coast for a few weeks, and then panic when summer stares you in the face, this episode is exactly what you need to hear. The KMC Collective team — Tom, Cole, and Vicki — sit down to tackle one of the most overlooked disciplines in kids ministry leadership: the post-event debrief and the strategic shift into summer planning. Here's what we dig into together: Why evaluation is the most important step you skip after every big event — and how to make it so simple you'll actually do it What to measure beyond attendance — from new family experience and volunteer care, to check-in flow, large group, small group, and your follow-up plan How to gather fast, actionable feedback from your team using a simple two-wins-and-one-improvement text or email Why you should start planning kids camp and VBS months before most leaders ever think to — and how backward calendar planning kills overwhelm before it starts The power of anchor events — how mapping your Easter, VBS, summer camp, and school kickoff across your year keeps you proactive, not reactive Whether you're a solo kids ministry director, a lead pastor, or a volunteer stepping into leadership, this conversation will challenge you to pause, evaluate with intention, and build momentum into every season — not just survive them.

As leaders in children's ministry, we have a vital role in equipping our kids to recognize the lies of the world and stand firm in the truth. Every day, our children face a spiritual battle. This episode will remind you not to fall asleep on your assignment. Recommended Resources to Check Out:Intentional Children's Ministry: https://amzn.to/4crIyPfPraise Him: A 30 Day Family Devotional: https://amzn.to/48E1p8zRaising Worry Free Girls: https://a.co/d/03e1pCln

Get ready for summer in KidMin with strategic planning tips and practical tools. Hannah Augustine and Ryan Frank discuss how to embrace the unique season of summer, turn challenges into opportunities, and prepare your team and environment for a successful summer outreach. To sign up for KidzMatter's free Summer Ready micro-course, visit kidzmatter.com/summer-ready. Get your free preschool or elementary lessons from Awana's Brite curriculum at britecurriculum.com. 

If you've ever struggled with feelings of doubt or fear or fallen into the comparison trap as a kidmin leader, then this episode is for you. Discover practical tips for overcoming self-doubt, fear, and comparison in your ministry, as well as how to embrace your unique journey and grow as a leader.Check out what leadership books Amber has been reading: Soundtracks by Jon Acuff - https://amzn.to/4v47a9gRich Dad Poor Dad by Robert Kiyosaki - https://amzn.to/4dRXFnhThe Art of People by Dave Kerpen - https://amzn.to/3O8LRmh*These are affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, I may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

Don't let the busy interrupt the holy! In this episode, Hannah Augustine and Christen Clark discuss the importance of preparing for Holy Week. With a little intentionality, KidMin leaders can engage families and kids alike in understanding the story of Jesus' resurrection through hands-on experiences and intentional conversations. Connect with Christen on socials: @christenclark,  @collidekidspod , and @7minutedevotions. You can find The Collide Kids Podcast and Seven Minute Devotions for Busy Families on your favorite podcast platform! Be sure to listen to our episode with Charlie Alcock and Ryan Frank, then get your youth pastor a ticket to The KidzMatter Conference at thekidzmatterconference.com.

This episode might step on your toes, but listen in as Amber talks about 10 of her unpopular kidmin opinions and why she has them. Each of her opinions is rooted in the eternal importance of what we do in children's ministry. If you want to learn how to be more intentional in your ministry, grab a copy of her book Intentional Children's Ministry on Amazon (available in audio and ebook as well) or at renewanation.org. 

Clear communication is one of the most important skills a ministry leader can develop. It shapes your team, strengthens relationships, and helps your vision move forward.In this episode, we explore how leaders can communicate with clarity, purpose, and encouragement. From casting vision to supporting volunteers and navigating difficult conversations, we unpack practical ways to lead through communication.Featuring insights from leading global KidMin voices, this conversation will help you communicate in a way that builds trust and strengthens your ministry.

To protect children at church, policies and procedures must be in place. Who gets access to your children? What policies are being put in place to keep children safe? If no policies are in place, now is the time to get started. 

When it comes to KidMin Easter egg hunts, we seem to be doing the same things, the same way, for the same reasons - but without the same effectiveness. This week's conversation with Corinne Noble will have you laughing, nodding in agreement, and taking notes on how to reach families effectively, both at Easter and year-round. Get your free Easter lesson from Brite by Awana at britecurriculum.com/Easter. Connect with Corinne and her amazing KidMin resources at kidmincorinne.com and on socials @KidMinCorinne.

Are we teaching our kids who God is both at church and at home?

In this episode with Chuck Peters from Lifeway Next Gen, we explore five enormous needs facing today's kids and students in Gen Z and Gen Alpha. If you want to better understand and disciple the next generation, this conversation will help you focus on what matters most.To access Chuck's latest book, Flip the Script, for FREE, visit https://utm.io/ujxKw. Check out their new curriculum at https://tinyurl.com/2zx6kan4, or connect with all of their resources at https://tinyurl.com/3wdf95zx. To receive a FREE KidMin Academy class, email support@kidzmatter.com.

Do you want to make this year's VBS the best yet? Here are 10 tips to make this VBS a discipleship success. 

Welcome to the Influence Podcast! I'm George P. Wood, executive editor of Influence magazine and your host. "Children's ministry is arguably one of the most difficult ministries to lead, but it is also the most rewarding," writes David Reneau. "We get the sacred opportunity to be some of the first people to tell little children — the next generation — about Jesus. We get to plant the seeds, tend and water the soil, and watch the first little tender sprouts peek out of the ground as our kids begin their faith journey and discover their calling." What are the best ways to maximize this opportunity? In this episode, I talk to David Reneau about how to make the most of your congregation's children's ministry. Reneau is an ordained Assemblies of God minister and lead pastor at Encounter Church in Toccoa, Georgia, with over 17 years of hands-on children's ministry experience. He is author of Next-Level Kidmin: The Children's Pastor's Practical Guide to Building a Thriving Ministry.   Sponsor Ad This episode of the Influence podcast is brought to you by Gospel Publishing House, distributors of The Heart of a Pathfinder. You're not just leading for now; you're building for what's next. How big would you dream if you saw your ministry through a generational lens? Melissa Alfaro challenges us to approach leadership through the lens of a pathfinder. She calls ministry leaders to do the hard work of clearing the path so future generations can step into their call. For more information about The Heart of a Pathfinder visit GospelPublishingHouse.com. ​ Show Notes 00:00 — Introduction and Sponsor Ad 02:05 — How do we keep the gospel central to our Kidmin leadership? 04:36 — What are the three fundamental elements of children's ministry? 16:51 — What are the best practices for recruiting, training, and even firing volunteers? 27:15 — How do you decide whether a Sunday school model or a small group model is the best fit for you congregation's children's ministry? 30:15 — How do you plan a children's church service that keeps the kids' energies at appropriate levels throughout the service? 35:37 — Give us a few ideas about how to pick the best curriculum. Also, how do we incorporate action — evangelism, missions, compassion — into our lesson planning? 41:41 — How do we do the work of ministry in a way that doesn't kill the work of God in us personally? 44:31 — What are you reading right now that is interesting, helpful, and/or personally challenging? 45:35 — Conclusion

David Rausch, from GO! Curriculum joins Amber to talk about his new book, Feeding Faith, and how we can truly disciple boys and girls during lesson time. Get David's new book here: https://amzn.to/4rDq2d9

Ever wonder if your KidMin volunteers truly feel valued and connected? This episode uncovers the three pivotal questions every leader should be answering to boost volunteer satisfaction and retention. Discover how to help your volunteers feel like their work truly matters, build their confidence with the right training, and create a sense of belonging that keeps burnout at bay. Get your team ready for the summer with your FREE access to Global KidMin Week! Visit globalkidminday.com to sign up.

Welcome to the Kids Ministry and Leadership Podcast from KidMin Collective.Each month, we bring you conversations with leading global KidMin voices who are shaping the future of children's ministry. You'll hear real stories, practical strategies, and leadership principles you can apply straight away.Whether you're building teams, developing volunteers, or strengthening your leadership, this podcast exists to help you lead with confidence and build a thriving, healthy ministry.New episodes drop monthly. Make sure you're following the podcast and connect with us on Instagram to keep the conversation going.

Kids need to be taught theology and doctrine, not a watered-down version of the Bible. In this episode, Amber goes over 10 tools you can use to help teach theology and doctrine to the kids in your ministry, helping to give them a firm faith. Resources mentioned in the episode:Mavalus Tape: https://amzn.to/4arWeZmPointer Hand: https://amzn.to/4bV2E5RHula Hoops: https://amzn.to/4qEIh0kPosters: https://amberpike.org/shop/ols/categories/teaching-aidsPredicting Crayon trick: https://youtu.be/um4pOHO9BtM?si=R-3fKRpeqtiCHx4uRenewaNation Curriculum: https://familyministry.org/The Family Ministry Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/familyministrycommunity

In this episode, Hannah Augustine interviews leadership coach and pastor James Duvall to explore the essential skills of self-leadership, time management, and personal growth. Whether you're volunteering, bi-vocational, or part of a larger team, you'll gain actionable insights to develop your KidMin capacity and impact.Use promo code KIDZMATTER at thegoodbook.com for 30% off on It's Good to Be a Boy and It's Good to Be a Girl. For personalized coaching, email hannah@kidzmatter.com. Connect with James and Lisa Duvall at artofspousing.com. You can read At Your Best by Carey Nieuwhof wherever books are sold.

What does success in children's ministry actually look like?Packed rooms? Growing numbers? Social media applause?In this final episode of the 12-part Kidmin Covenant series, we land on Commitment #12: measuring success by obedience—not by numbers, noise, or nods of approval.In this powerful wrap-up, Pastor Karl unpacks what lasting fruit really looks like: volunteers who keep serving, kids who open their Bibles on their own, letters from families whose lives were changed, and the ultimate goal—hearing “Well done, good and faithful servant.”Plus, Karl answers real leadership questions from the email bag:• Why does recruiting volunteers always feel like begging?• How do you keep church fun without turning it into a carnival?• Am I burned out… or just in a hard season?If you've ever questioned whether what you're doing truly matters… this episode is for you.Success isn't bigger.Success is faithful.Success is obedience.Subscribe, follow, and share — and join the conversation.Share with Kidology.org/kidmintalk219Kidmin Talk is the Podcast of Pastor Karl Bastian, founder of Kidology.org and host of KidminTalk.com. He is a children's pastor, speaker and entertainer. His life mission is to Equip and Encourage those who minister to children.This episode also includes a big announcement: beginning next week, Kidmin Talk becomes The Karl Bastian Podcast — expanding the conversation while keeping the heart for leaders strong.Listen to past editions of this podcast at KidminTalk.comSend Support via: KarlBastian.club/donatePLEASE SUBSCRIBE and HIT THAT ALERT BUTTON TOO!Follow Karl:Blog: Kidologist.comTwitter: @KidologistInstagram: @KarlBastian or @KidologyorgSupport the show

If you haven't placed a volunteer training on the calendar yet this year, then this episode is for you. Amber walks you through the why of training, plus practical tips to get you started. Recommended resources mentioned in the episode:Intentional Children's Ministry: https://shop.renewanation.org/products/intentional-childrens-ministry-how-your-church-can-disciple-children-with-a-lifelong-faith-in-jesus-pre-order-to-be-released-january-2025Bring in a Speaker: https://familyministry.org/speaking/

In this reflective and encouraging episode of Kidmin Talk, Karl unpacks Kidmin Covenant #11: Rest Is Best—a countercultural reminder that rest is not a reward for finishing ministry work, but a requirement for sustaining it.Drawing from Scripture, personal experience, and decades of leadership in children's ministry, Karl challenges leaders to rethink their pace, priorities, and definition of faithfulness. When ministry never slows down, burnout isn't a possibility—it's a certainty.Karl also shares the heart behind his new Proactive Ministry Master Class, designed to help leaders stop living in reaction mode and start leading with margin, clarity, and intention.Plus, Karl takes listeners back to the origins of the Yosemite Summit Retreat, a sacred space created for children's pastors to unplug, walk with God, and rediscover their identity apart from ministry performance.If you're tired, stretched thin, or running on empty, this episode is a gentle but firm invitation to trust God enough to rest.Questions or feedback? Email Karl directly at karl@kidmintalk.comShare this episode: Kidology.org/kidmintalk218Kidmin Talk is the Podcast of Pastor Karl Bastian, founder of Kidology.org and host of KidminTalk.com. He is a children's pastor, speaker and entertainer. His life mission is to Equip and Encourage those who minister to children.Listen to past editions of this podcast at KidminTalk.comSend Support via: KarlBastian.club/donatePLEASE SUBSCRIBE and HIT THAT ALERT BUTTON TOO!Follow Karl:Blog: Kidologist.comTwitter: @KidologistInstagram: @KarlBastian or @KidologyorgSupport the show

Listen and find out about the new Easter family devotional, Wondering to Jerusalem, by Vanessa Myers from Family Faith Builders. Learn more about Family Faith Builders at: https://www.familyfaithbuilders.org/Order your copies of Wondering to Jerusalem at: https://amzn.to/3LTCoy0

Whose job is it to disciple boys and girls? Are you leading your ministry in such a way that you are fulfilling your biblical command for discipleship?Check out the resources mentioned in the episode: The Family Ministry AcademyIntentional Children's MinistryFamily MinistryPraise Him: A 30 Day Family Devotional

Planning for 2026 isn't pressure—it's stewardship. In this episode with KidzMatter Founder Ryan Frank, we help kids ministry leaders gain clarity, confidence, and a practical path forward so the future doesn't sneak up on them.We start with vision clarity, because most ministries don't lack passion—they lack focus. You'll be challenged to define what “winning” looks like for your kids, families, and team, including creating a simple seven-word KidMin vision statement.Next, we explore leadership rhythms that drive healthy growth, including planning rhythms, people rhythms, and personal rhythms that sustain leaders over the long haul.We wrap up with simple, sustainable systems that help small teams do big ministry by strengthening communication, follow-up, and calendar planning.The challenge is clear: lead 2026 with clarity, consistency, and sustainability—because you're shaping a generation, not just a calendar.Looking to strengthen your leadership in 2026? Sign up for a free trial of KidzMatter PRO at kidzmatter.com/pro.

Ready for a sneak peek of KidzMatter PRO? In this week's episode of the KidzMatter Podcast, host Hannah Augustine and KidzMatter's Chief Growth Officer Sarah Carroll dive into an engaging conversation on culture and ministry. Kids today are saturated by culture. As KidMin leaders, we can't change that, and it's not our job to tell them what to do or how to think. However, in our ministry environments, there are many opportunities for what Sarah deems “microdiscipleship”. God has allowed us to teach them discernment and grace as they navigate the world.This episode will encourage and inspire you to have the hard conversations with your kids, their parents, and your volunteers. Want to lead with even greater strength in 2026? Sign up for your free trial of KidzMatter PRO at kidzmatter.com/pro.

We're going back into the archives! In this episode of the KidzMatter Podcast, filmed at the 2024 KidzMatter Conference, host Jordan Davis interviews Pastor Nate Nupanga from Mercy Road Church. Nate has a unique perspective from his current seat as a lead pastor, but also from his previous roles in other ministry areas within the local church. As they'll share in this conversation, Jordan and Nate both have a passion for helping KidMin leaders thrive alongside their senior leaders, and the principles they share provide practical handholds to help them do so. Remember this: when your pastor wins, so do you. Let's start 2026 with a posture of honor towards our senior leaders!Looking to register for the 2026 KidzMatter Conference? We'd love to have you - visit https://www.thekidzmatterconference.com/ today!

In this episode of Kidmin Talk, Karl dives into Kidmin Covenant #10: I will pass on any praise I receive to those who helped, inspired, guided, orassisted—and ultimately to JesusWith transparency, scripture, and heart, Karl challenges leaders to resist pride and pass on the praise when things are going well in your kids ministry. Everything we do, we do because God allows us. Packed with scripture, you'll be encouraged!PLUS: Karl is testing a new LIVE mode, and posted to:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/live/fccGBdbjckcFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/v/1DvDDfbdqi/Rumble: https://rumble.com/v732pn8-go-live-from-your-browser-with-restream-studio.htmlMENTIONED ON THE SHOW:National Center for Biblical Parenting biblicalparenting.org and their new resource, FIRST STEPS, over 3 hours of one-three minutes parent training videos you can use to Equip and Encourage your parents!Pioneer Clubs - pioneerclubs.org and thewayforkids.orgMore than just midweek clubs, check out The Way, their new children's church curriculum!Questions or feedback? Email Karl directly at karl@kidmintalk.comShare with Kidology.org/kidmintalk217Kidmin Talk is the Podcast of Pastor Karl Bastian, founder of Kidology.org and host of KidminTalk.com. He is a children's pastor, speaker and entertainer. His life mission is to Equip and Encourage those who minister to children.Listen to past editions of this podcast at KidminTalk.comSend Support via: Kidology.org/donatePLEASE SUBSCRIBE and HIT THAT ALERT BUTTON TOO!Follow Karl:Blog: Kidologist.comTwitter: @KidologistInstagram: @KarlBastian or @KidologyorgSupport the show

In this episode, Amber shares her top 25 things of 2025, from things for the home, favorite books, to kidmin products you can't live without. Check out the links to the products mentioned:Intentional Children's Ministry - https://amzn.to/4pHZ6baPraise Him - https://amzn.to/4qfsMw5Plastic Envelopes - https://amzn.to/3XUEiRxConfetti Streamers - https://amzn.to/4oTq925Timeline Poster – https://amberpike.org/shop/ols/products/bible-timeline-posterKidmin Swag – https://kidmin-corinne-merch-store.printify.me/Ducks – https://amzn.to/3MxB83PHair Tinsel – https://amzn.to/4oVTsRqPuke Bags - https://amzn.to/3MMJqoiMavalus Tape – https://amzn.to/4akN8zwLegos (off brand) - https://amzn.to/4q7pxXnChairs - https://amzn.to/45cOrNfThe Read Aloud Family – https://amzn.to/48Rt2dzOverwhelmed Mom – https://amzn.to/453GyK1The Wingfeather Saga – https://amzn.to/4qaEic7  Matilda – https://amzn.to/45cPdK9How to Train Your Dragon - https://amzn.to/4j3f3X1The God Contest – https://amzn.to/48XJskTStorage Drawers - https://amzn.to/4ajKMkdHokas - https://amzn.to/3L6pLPLBack Brace - https://amzn.to/4iZcFjPRecording Studio – https://amzn.to/44zEcCCEpson 3850 Printer – https://amzn.to/4iXJHRjSanta Cookie Elf Cany Snowman Game – https://amzn.to/48DZG3CPapermate Pens – https://amzn.to/4j3fUHd Some links are Amazon affiliate links. Amber may earn a small commission if you buy through them.

Are you evaluating every resource in your ministry through the lens of Scripture? No lesson should be taught or resource sent home unless it's been previewed and vetted against God's Word. 

Looking to make the most of the Christmas season in your ministry? Today's conversation with Lauren Jackson from Kids Ministry Circle will give you tips and tricks for how to do that! Lauren has extensive experience in KidMin and a heart for discipling kiddos in every season, and her thoughts will inspire you as you plan to celebrate with your church. Whether you have a Christmas tree in your lobby or a manger in your classroom, you can take a step towards increasing your discipleship impact this Christmas. Sit back, grab a cup of coffee, and join us for this week's episode!

Welcome to the Kids Ministry Collective Podcast, your trusted resource for practical strategies, creative ideas, and real conversations designed specifically for children's ministry leaders. In this special holiday episode, hosts Tom, Cole, Ben, and Vicki share expert tips on managing and executing last-minute holiday events with ease. With Christmas approaching fast, discover how to simplify your ministry's seasonal programs through stress-free event planning, including ideas like parent shopping nights, easy DIY holiday kits, and streamlined logistics. Whether you lead a busy kids ministry team or volunteer during the holiday rush, this episode offers actionable advice to help your Christmas ministry events run smoothly and joyfully. Tune in for inspiration and proven tactics to create memorable and manageable celebrations for your children's ministry this season. Need some Community? Come join us in the BEST Community for Childrens Ministry Leaders; kidminplus.net Click Here to learn about Kids Ministry Collective? 

Are you a detailed or a big-picture person? No matter how you are wired, if you are being intentional about your discipleship opportunities in kidmin, you've got to start planning the big picture of your year. Grab the Kidmin Planner, here. Plus, check out Amber's blog to get the free big-picture overview planner. 

In this episode of the KMC Collective Podcast, Tom, Cole, Ben, and Vicki share practical strategies for children's ministry leaders to effectively wrap up the ministry year. Discover the "4 Rs" framework (Rejoice, Release, Rest, Refocus) for a healthy and hopeful start to January.  Learn how to: Evaluate the past year and celebrate achievements. Let go of unproductive tasks and past frustrations. Ensure adequate rest to avoid burnout. Set a clear vision and annual plan for the upcoming year.  The conversation also covers the importance of capturing stories of impact, inviting feedback from volunteers and families, and taking intentional breaks for overall well-being. This is a must-listen for any kids ministry director looking for an annual planning strategy to finish strong and prepare for new challenges.   Want more resources for your children's ministry? Subscribe to the KMC Collective Podcast and visit our website Kidsministrycollective.com for free downloads and show notes! Follow us on social media @kidsministrycollective 

Discover practical strategies to cultivate gratitude in children's ministry leadership. In this KMC Collective Podcast episode, hosts Tom, Cole, Vicki, and Ben share proven techniques for building a thankful mindset within your ministry team—even during challenging seasons. Learn how to: ✓ Create intentional spaces for thanksgiving in your ministry ✓ Foster gratitude through authentic storytelling and personal experiences ✓ Build stronger relationships within your leadership team ✓ Maintain positivity and resilience through gratitude practices ✓ Lead with presence and intentionality Whether you're struggling to stay encouraged or looking to inspire your children's ministry team, this heartwarming conversation offers actionable insights on gratitude, leadership, and community building. Perfect for children's ministry leaders, youth pastors, and anyone seeking daily encouragement. Check out The Kids Ministry Collective, where you can learn about coaching, community and murch more for childrens ministry leaders.   

In this week's episode with Josh Zello from Jesus Loves Preschoolers, host Hannah Augustine asks a question many preschool KidMin leaders have asked: how do we address separation anxiety? While this is a very normal phase for the youngest kids in our care, we can feel at a loss on how to lead them through it. Using his experience as a preschool pastor, Josh shares helpful tips and strategies for helping kids feel safe in your ministry, as well as the “why” behind this phase of their lives. Interested in learning more from Josh on this topic? Get his “Loving Through Separation Anxiety” Digital Guide at jesuslovespreschoolers.com.