Podcasts about kids ministry

When there is a big scary storm going on, what do you do to stay brave? Do you find your parents and hide under them? Maybe you even like storms? Arlo and the gang learned about a storm that was especially scary for some fishermen, but Jesus took a nap right in the middle of it!Jesus Calms the Storm“When Jesus woke up, he rebuked the wind and said to the waves, ‘Silence! Be still!' Suddenly the wind stopped, and there was a great calm.” (Mark 4:39)Mark 4:35-41Jesus told us in scripture that we will face many trials in this life (John 16:33). This is a fact of life – not an “if,” but a “when.” Maybe you have not experienced trials yet or maybe you have been through more than your fair share of struggle. Whatever the case may be, God can handle it.Jesus demonstrates His power to the disciples by effortlessly calming a raging storm after suggesting He and the disciples cross the lake in a boat. Soon after setting off on their journey, a storm, described as “fierce,” comes upon them. The boat began to fill with water and, understandably so, the disciples began to panic. They looked around for Jesus, but could not find Him. Eventually, they found Him sleeping peacefully in the back of the boat. He was unfazed by the storm because He was not afraid. The disciples began yelling, “Don't you care that we are going to drown?” Jesus woke up and using only His voice, instructed the waves and wind to be still. Immediately, the storm subsided.Once the storm had ended, Jesus turned to His disciples and asked, “Why are you afraid? Do you still have no faith?” In the midst of a raging storm, Jesus felt peace because He knew He was stronger than the storm. He would not let it bring down the ship. Yet, the disciples let fear consume them when they faced the storm, not believing that Jesus could save them.When trials or “storms” enter our lives, it is easy to let our fear lead us. Let this miracle be a testament to the power of Christ in our lives. By calming the dangerous storm, He showed us that He can calm any type of storm we are facing. When something scary happens, we do not have to be afraid because Jesus has proved that He is more powerful than anything we will face, including nature.Questions to think about:What storm are you facing?What stands in the way of you handing over your fear to Christ?Is there a time in your life when Jesus has calmed a storm you faced? Trust that He can do it again.

Summer doesn't slow down for kids ministry — and the pressure to keep going can quietly drain even the best leaders. In this episode, Tom, Ben, and Vicki talk honestly about what summer really feels like: the comparison trap, volunteer fatigue, VBS planning stress, and how to protect your mindset when every other ministry around you seems to be taking a break. You'll walk away with a practical framework to shift from survival mode to sustainable leadership — including the "Day One, Week One" mindset, how life-change stories can re-energize your team, and why working for Jesus changes everything about how you show up. Kids ministry burnout is real. But so is the clarity on the other side of it.

Kids ministry might be the most underestimated place in the church to serve—and this episode makes the case for why. Our Early Childhood Coordinator and a pastor/parent of High Point pull back the curtain on what actually happens in our Kids Ministry on a Sunday morning: the process, the people, the purpose behind it all. What emerges is a picture of a ministry that's a lot more intentional, a lot more fun, and a lot more significant than most people realize. Whether you've been on the fence about serving or you're a parent who's never thought twice about where your kid goes on Sunday, this one might change how you see the whole thing.   Engage & Equip is a resource designed to help form substantive disciples for the local church. Find more episodes at highpointchurch.org/podcast Engage & Equip is a resource designed to help form substantive disciples for the local church.Find more episodes at highpointchurch.org/podcastMusic: HOME—We're Finally Landing, Nosebleed, If I'm Wrong (https://midwestcollective.bandcamp.com/album/before-the-night)

Chris Ammen is back on the podcast and this time he's talking about his new book, How to Build a Better Children's Ministry — a resource born out of 15+ years of kids ministry experience and a whole lot of trial, error, and hard-won wisdom.Resources mentioned:Kids Ministry Circle Coaching BundleHow to Build a Better Children's Ministry by Chris AmmenRaising Disciples at Home by Chris AmmenKaleidoscope Kids Bibles — readkaleidoscope.comResilient Ministry by Donald GuthrieThe Five Dysfunctions of a Team — Patrick LencioniWorking Genius assessmentConnect with Chris:readkaleidoscope.comchrisammen.com

Have you ever wondered who made everything? God did! That's why God loves you so much, because He made you! Let's hear about from our friends.thing just for you to enjoy this Bible story for yourself. We encourage you to read over this devotional sometime this week as a way to reflect on the Bible story your child saw from Church at Home. We love you!DownloadElementary Activity SheetsEach week we have a variety of activity pages to help your child remember the week's lesson. They include new coloring pages and activity sheets to enjoy!DownloadNavigating ParenthoodHey parents! Saddleback Parents has great training, tips, and tools to help you win. Check out this Two-Minute Tip, The Universal Talk, all about communicating your child's value as someone created by God.Download

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    

Balancing Structure with The Divine Flow

Summer in kids' ministry is unlike any other season — full of VBS, camp, new team building, and big energy. But if you run hard all summer long, you'll hit the Fall completely empty. In this episode, I share five practical strategies to help you pace yourself, protect your people, and actually enjoy the summer season in ministry.Resourced Mentioned-Kids Ministry Roundtable Membership-3-Call Coaching Bundle

Who is in Kelby's treasure chest this week? Kelby, Arlo, and Tilly all learn about an amazing woman named Esther this week! Come along with us to Happy Harbor to pop some bubbles, ride the Bible train, and hear an amazing story all about God's love.EstherHey parents! Use these questions as a guide to talk over this week's lesson about Esther with your child after they've watched the video service!Who was today's Bible story about?Esther. God made Esther and she loved God.What did Esther wear on her head?A crown! The crown showed everyone that Esther was a queen.One day, she heard someone was going to do something bad. Uh oh! Did Esther stop the bad thing from happening?Yes! She stopped the bad plan. Shake your head “no” because the plan was not good.Esther had to do something brave and tell the king to stop the bad plan. Can you be brave, too?Yes! God helps us be brave. Show me your strong arms because God made us to do good and brave things.Take some time to pray with your toddler. Encourage your toddler to sit with you and fold their hands, saying something like:God, thank you for loving us and wanting to be our friend. Thank you for making us. Help us do good things and be brave like Esther! We love you! Amen.Parent Encouragement - EstherHey parents! Here's something for you to be encouraged by and get ideas to bring this Bible story into your everyday conversation with your child at home!DownloadToddler Craft – Esther Character StickIn this craft, your toddler will create their own Esther Character Stick to remind them of the main character from the Bible story. God made Esther, and God made them!DownloadToddler Activity – Talk Like EstherIn this activity, your toddler will bring the craft they made to life. They will practice saying and doing things with their Esther Character Stick to remember this Bible story about Esther.DownloadToddler Coloring Page - EstherWe have a variety of coloring pages to help your child remember familiar faces from this month's lesson!DownloadNavigating Parenthood - EstherHey parents! Saddleback Parents has great training, tips, and tools to help you win. Check out this blog post all about how to foster healthy obedience in our children that comes from a place of love and respect rather than rules they follow out of obligationDownloadAt Saddleback Kids we believe every kid should be known, connected, equipped and empowered. KNOWN by another kid and a leader. CONNECTED to a group where they can grow spiritually. EQUIPPED with the tools and the knowledge to develop a strong faith in Jesus. EMPOWERED to serve others and share Jesus in the world.To sum it up, Saddleback Kids exists to connect kids to God and others while helping them live a purpose driven life.

You've been leading hard since September. The end of the ministry year is right there — but finishing well takes more than just surviving. Join Tom, Cole, Ben, and Vicki as they sit down and get honest about what May actually feels like — the exhaustion, the wins, and the real failures that taught them the most. Cole shares what it's like to lose a key volunteer mid-season and carry the weight. Ben opens up about a two-year burnout season and why five minutes recalibrating with Jesus can save your ministry. Vicki names her biggest fail: believing that because she was on staff, it all had to fall on her. You'll hear practical strategies for building seasonal volunteer teams, celebrating your people before summer, chunking your calendar to protect your energy, and knowing when to ask for help instead of white-knuckling it alone. Topics covered: finishing the ministry year well, volunteer team health, avoiding burnout, seasonal teams, end-of-year priorities, and setting yourself up for a strong fall restart. We're better together — and you don't have to carry this alone.

Dale and Joseph interview Brittany Nelson about digital natives vs digital immigrants, why children's ministry matters, volunteer recruitment that works, and practical ways churches can partner with parents to disciple kids at home.This is a great conversation on leading kids ministry in a digital world—bridging digital natives and digital immigrants, improving volunteer recruitment, and building real partnerships with parents for everyday discipleship at home.Brittany Nelson is an author, speaker, former children's pastor and the creator of DeeperKidMin.com, an online hub of downloadable resources made FOR children's ministry leaders BY children's ministry leaders.She works to support children's ministry leaders around the world by sharing resources and encouragement that grow kids deeper in their faith. Her other adventures include being a mom to the 3 sweetest little girls, reading as many books as she can, volunteering in children's and youth ministry, and drinking lots of herbal tea. Show Notes: https://95network.org/95podcast-338-summary-digital-natives-vs-digital-immigrants-brittany-nelson-on-hybrid-church-kids-ministry-and-partnering-with-parents/Support the show

If you're a kids' pastor who has ever ever felt overwhelmed by the sheer volume of Scripture or unsure how to make it stick, this conversation is your clear path forward. In this episode, Hannah Augustine welcomes Mark Campbell and Steph Bradac from Awana to reveal simple, impactful strategies for equipping children in your kids' ministry with a lifelong understanding of the Bible.Visit https://www.thegoodbook.com/ and use code KIDZMATTER to get 30% off J is for Jesus today! Get one FREE month of Brite Curriculum for both Preschool and Elementary at https://britecurriculum.com/. Listen to our episode with Awana CEO Matt Markins: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-kidzmatter-podcast/id1466061387?i=1000745762359 or https://open.spotify.com/episode/7voIqoqsV8hdLU4ZyOyFO5?si=FPoZNZTFRB-DBQWv4EC-Bw.

This week Arlo looks for adventure through the telescope in his lighthouse! He is hoping to learn about someone new today. Will learn with the help of his friend Kelby the octopus? Let's find out!For more great stories and things to do, head to Saddlebackkids.comAnd to see the video version of Happy Harbor, check out our youtube channel!Parents, there's plenty for you too at Saddlebackparents.com, and don't forget to subscribe to the On Purpose Parents podcast from Saddleback Parents.Talk It OverThe Parable Of The Lost SheepHey parents! Use these questions as a guide to talk over this week's lesson about The Parable of the Lost Sheep with your child after they've listened to the episode!Who was today's Bible story about?Jesus.A man had 100 sheep. What sound does a sheep make?Baa.Uh-oh. What happened when he lost one of his sheep?He looked and looked all around to find it. Let's play peek-a-boo! You can pretend to be the sheep and I'll cover my eyes then find you. Ready? Peek-a-boo sheep!How did the man feel when he finally found the lost sheep?He was happy! He asked everyone to come celebrate. Let's jump and clap our hands and celebrate, too.Take some time to pray with your toddler. Encourage your toddler to sit with you and fold their hands, saying something like:God, thank you for loving us. Thank you for making us. Thank you for wanting to be our friend. Thank you that you will take care of us. We love you! Amen!Parent Encouragement - The Parable of the Lost SheepHey parents! Here's something for you to be encouraged by and get ideas to bring this Bible story into your everyday conversation with your child at home!DownloadCraft – I-Spy BagIn this craft, your toddler will make an I-Spy bag filled with hidden items from the Bible story. As they look for the items in their bag, they will be reminded that the shepherd looked for the sheep. He loved the sheep, and God loves us!DownloadActivity – Balloon SheepIn this activity, your toddler will have fun as they find all of the sheep like the shepherd found his lost sheep in our Bible story. The shepherd loved his sheep, and God loves us!DownloadColoring Page - The Parable of the Lost SheepWe have a variety of coloring pages to help your child remember familiar faces from this month's lesson!DownloadNavigating Parenthood: Step Up Hey parents! Saddleback Parents has great training, tips, and tools to help you win. Check out part 2 of this Two Minute Tip series all about how we can help our kids hold onto faith.Download

You weren't meant to lead kids ministry alone — and this episode is your wake-up call to stop trying. In Part 2 of our "Tools for Kids Ministry Leaders" series, Tom, Cole, Ben, and Vickie get real about the tools that aren't apps or calendars — they're people. If you caught Part 1 (featuring the legendary Jim Wideman), you already know the power of systems and AI. Now we're going deeper into the human side of leading well. The conversation kicks off with Ben sharing what he's learned at his new church — a place where volunteers don't just show up, they own their roles. The team unpacks why so many leaders fall into the trap of believing "nobody wants to help," and Tom delivers a passionate challenge: stop saying no for people before you even ask them. Cast the vision, make the invite specific, and watch what God does. From there, Vickie breaks down her coaching philosophy — why every ministry, regardless of size, needs leaders of leaders. Whether you call them coaches, team leads, or area leads, these higher-capacity volunteers are the key to multiplying your impact without multiplying your exhaustion. The crew also gets personal about burnout, sharing how finding mentors and coaches transformed their ministries and extended their longevity. Ben talks about Dan, his longtime sounding board. Tom opens up about nearly burning out 15 years in. And the team offers practical advice on what to look for when hiring or choosing a coach — credentials, experience, and a heart for developing others, not just giving advice. Finally, they round out with systems — Planning Center, Google Drive, OneNote, voice memos, email folders, and even AI tools that help you work smarter so you can be more relational. Ready to stop leading alone? Join the KMC community on Facebook or level up at kidminplus.net for leadership-level conversations, live coaching, and round table discussions with all four coaches. Email tom@tombump.com for a free 14-day preview. And if this episode encouraged you, leave a review, share it with a fellow kids ministry leader, and keep the conversation going!

What does it look like to lead with faithfulness, longevity, and joy in kids and family ministry? In this conversation, Lauren sits down with Kendra Fleming — Executive Director of Family Ministry at North Point Ministries — for an honest, practical, and deeply encouraging conversation about 25 years of ministry leadership. From building volunteer pipelines to navigating criticism, Kendra brings wisdom that every ministry leader needs to hear.Follow Kendra: @kendrafleming

Teacher: Rob Zimmermann Download Sermon Notes  Watch Episode Give Online: http://westgatechapel.org/give Chapters (00:02:18) - Praise for the Sovereign God(00:06:28) - Mother's Day at Westgate(00:07:37) - Wonders of Westgate Chapel Welcome!(00:09:44) - How to Invite Everyone to VBS(00:14:02) - Donating to our Kids Ministry(00:15:44) - A Moment of Remembrance(00:20:07) - The Lord's Supper(00:28:54) - Depend on You(00:37:59) - First Things First(00:39:48) - Psalm 51: Making Jesus Lord of Our Lives(00:44:32) - Paul's Making Jesus the Lord of My Life(00:53:36) - Case Study(00:57:44) - The Perfect Image of Sin(01:05:44) - David's Sin in Second Samuel(01:07:16) - David's Personal Experience in Repentance(01:15:13) - Psalm 51(01:16:37) - Putting Your Faith in Jesus First(01:27:30) - Put Jesus First

Noah And The FloodHey parents! Use these questions as a guide to talk over this week's lesson, Noah and the Flood, with your child after they've  listened!What was your favorite part of the story we just heard? Do you have any questions about what you saw?How was Noah different from the people around him?Noah was the only man on Earth who still walked with God and made the right choices. All of the other people were evil and were doing things God says are wrong.What were God's instructions to Noah? Why might that have seemed strange?God told Noah to build a boat and put two of each animal on it. It was strange because God warned of a flood, but it had never even rained like that before! Noah had to have faith and trust God's plan.What did God promise Noah? How did he show this promise?God promised he would never flood the Earth again, and he put a rainbow in the sky to show his promise.What are some of God's plans for me?To love him forever, to love other people, and to be a part of his family.Think about this part of our Bible verse: “In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will direct your paths.” What does it mean that God directs your path?It means he tells us what is best and the right way to live. He does that by speaking to us through the Bible, through his helper the Holy Spirit, by talking to us through other Christians, or by talking to him in prayer.Parent Devotional Hey parents! We have something just for you to enjoy this week's Bible story for yourself. Read over this devotion sometime this week as a way for you to reflect on the Bible story your child saw from Church at Home. We love you!DownloadColoring page and Activity SheetEach week we have new activity sheets and coloring pages to help your child remember the Bible story and learn more about how they can step up in faith.DownloadNavigating Parenthood: Step Up Hey parents! Saddleback Parents has great training, tips, and tools to help you win. Check out part 3 of this Two Minute Tip series all about how we can help our kids hold onto faith.DownloadToday's Bible Story Comes Genesis 6-8 (from Bible Gateway)6 Then the people began to multiply on the earth, and daughters were born to them. 2 The sons of God saw the beautiful women[a] and took any they wanted as their wives. 3 Then the Lord said, “My Spirit will not put up with[b] humans for such a long time, for they are only mortal flesh. In the future, their normal lifespan will be no more than 120 years.”4 In those days, and for some time after, giant Nephilites lived on the earth, for whenever the sons of God had intercourse with women, they gave birth to children who became the heroes and famous warriors of ancient times.5 The Lord observed the extent of human wickedness on the earth, and he saw that everything they thought or imagined was consistently and totally evil. 6 So the Lord was sorry he had ever made them and put them on the earth. It broke his heart. 7 And the Lord said, “I will wipe this human race I have created from the face of the earth. Yes, and I will destroy every living thing—all the people, the large animals, the small animals that scurry along the ground, and even the birds of the sky. I am sorry I ever made them.” 8 But Noah found favor with the Lord.The Story of Noah9 This is the account of Noah and his family. Noah was a righteous man, the only blameless person living on earth at the time, and he walked in close fellowship with God. 10 Noah was the father of three sons: Shem, Ham, and Japheth.11 Now God saw that the earth had become corrupt and was filled with violence. 12 God observed all this corruption in the world, for everyone on earth was corrupt. 13 So God said to Noah, “I have decided to destroy all living creatures, for they have filled the earth with violence. Yes, I will wipe them all out along with the earth!14 “Build a large boat[c] from cypress wood[d] and waterproof it with tar, inside and out. Then construct decks and stalls throughout its interior. 15 Make the boat 450 feet long, 75 feet wide, and 45 feet high.[e] 16 Leave an 18-inch opening[f] below the roof all the way around the boat. Put the door on the side, and build three decks inside the boat—lower, middle, and upper.17 “Look! I am about to cover the earth with a flood that will destroy every living thing that breathes. Everything on earth will die. 18 But I will confirm my covenant with you. So enter the boat—you and your wife and your sons and their wives. 19 Bring a pair of every kind of animal—a male and a female—into the boat with you to keep them alive during the flood. 20 Pairs of every kind of bird, and every kind of animal, and every kind of small animal that scurries along the ground, will come to you to be kept alive. 21 And be sure to take on board enough food for your family and for all the animals.”22 So Noah did everything exactly as God had commanded him.The Flood Covers the Earth7 When everything was ready, the Lord said to Noah, “Go into the boat with all your family, for among all the people of the earth, I can see that you alone are righteous. 2 Take with you seven pairs—male and female—of each animal I have approved for eating and for sacrifice,[g] and take one pair of each of the others. 3 Also take seven pairs of every kind of bird. There must be a male and a female in each pair to ensure that all life will survive on the earth after the flood. 4 Seven days from now I will make the rains pour down on the earth. And it will rain for forty days and forty nights, until I have wiped from the earth all the living things I have created.”5 So Noah did everything as the Lord commanded him.6 Noah was 600 years old when the flood covered the ...

What does it really take to lead in children's ministry for the long haul — and actually enjoy it? In this episode of the KMC Collective Podcast, the team sits down with legendary children's ministry leader Jim Wideman, who brings more than 50 years of hands-on experience to the conversation. From his early days watching Bozo's Circus for programming ideas to introducing children's ministry concepts to Australia, Jim has seen — and shaped — virtually every era of modern kids ministry.   Want to learn more? Need a Coach? Kidsministrycollective.com is where you find it all! 

In this episode, I talk with Danielle Wilkins from Next Wave Staffing, a boutique ministry staffing company helping churches and next-gen candidates find the right fit. Danielle brings years of experience in kids ministry leadership and staffing, and she does not hold back on the things people are afraid to talk about: salary, generational tension in hiring, how to ask hard questions in an interview, and what it really takes to stand out as a young leader.Whether you're a kids ministry leader looking for your next role or a church trying to find your next hire, this conversation is for you. Resources MentionedNext Wave Staffing@nextwavestaffing

GOOD SAMARITANHey parents! Use these questions as a guide to talk over this week's lesson, Good Samaritan, with your child after they've watched the video service!Jesus told a story. Who was today's Bible story about?A Samaritan man.A Jewish man was hurt – he had lots of owies. A Samaritan man came. He helped the Jewish man. Let's say, Hooray for the Samaritan man. It is good to help people when they are hurt.God made people because he loves everyone. Can you point to someone God made?Help your child point to you and to themselves!Jesus is happy when we help someone and we can be happy, too. Show me your happiest happy face.Take some time to pray with your toddler. Encourage them to sit with you and fold their hands, saying something like:“God, thank you for making us. Thank you for loving us. Thank you for wanting to be our friend. Help us to help people just like the Good Samaritan. We love you! Amen.”Parent Encouragement - The Good SamaritanHey Parents! Here's something for you to be encouraged by and get ideas from this week to make the Good Samaritan lesson part of your everyday conversation with your toddler at home!DownloadToddler Coloring Page - The Good SamaritanAs your child colors this coloring page, they will be reminded of today's Bible story and that God made them! There are additional coloring pages with familiar faces from today's lesson, too.DownloadToddler Craft – The Good Samaritan BadgesThis week, your child will create a Good Samaritan badge to remind them they can help people just like the Good Samaritan helped in the Bible story.DownloadToddler Activity – Find the Hurt ManIn this activity, your child will find the hurt man hiding under a cup. They will remember they can be like the Good Samaritan. When they see someone who is hurt, they can help.DownloadNavigating Parenthood Hey parents! Saddleback Parents has great training, tips, and tools to help you win. Check out this Two-Minute Tip, How to Help Your Children See Themselves Through God's Eyes Pt.1, all about solidifying the basis of your child's identity through three words.Download

What are the best tools for kids ministry leaders to save time and reduce stress? In this episode of the KMC Collective Podcast, Tom, Ben, and Vickie share the practical, everyday tools that make children's ministry leadership easier — from calendar time blocking and AI for curriculum writing to Canva for church design and Bible study resources like Logos and BibleProject. We break down how to use your calendar as a strategic tool, why AI tools like ChatGPT and Goblin Tools can be your creative sidekick (without replacing your voice or theology), and why Canva is a must-have for any church without a graphic designer on staff. Plus, we share our favorite Bible study tools for kids ministry prep — including Logos, Blue Letter Bible, BibleProject, and the Gen Z Bible. This is Part 1 — stay tuned for Part 2! And if you met us at D6 Conference, welcome to the KMC family. We're glad you're here. Join the Facebook Group (Make sure you answer membership questions!!) Check out all the things at KidsMinistryCollective.com

Fun doesn't just happen in kids ministry, it's led.In this season finale of Kids Ministry Calling, Jana sits down with Stephanie Chase, Kids Minister at Champion Forest Baptist Church, for a high-energy and honest conversation about what it really takes to build a culture of fun that kids (and volunteers) want to be part of.Stephanie shares why the leader sets the tone, how your energy and attitude shape the environment, and what it looks like to be intentional about bringing joy into every space—from classrooms to large group gatherings.This episode is both a celebration of everything we've learned this season about fun in kids ministry and a challenge to step into your role as the one who leads it.Because when leaders show up with purpose, presence, and joy—kids don't just attend… they engage, belong, and grow.If you're ready to stop waiting for fun to happen and start leading it, this episode will give you the clarity and encouragement to do just that.And as we close out this season, remember: fun isn't extra—it's a powerful part of how kids experience the love of Jesus! SHOW LINKS: Bible Stories for Life HyfiExplore the Bible for Kids The Gospel Project for KidsSHAPE: Spritual gifts, Heart, Abilities, Personality, ExperiencesConnect with Lifeway Kids Leave us a voice message here with any questions or feedback!Join us at ETCH 2026

DAVIDHey parents! Use these questions as a guide to talk over this week's lesson, David, with your child after they've listened to the story!Who was today's Bible story about?David. David loved God and God loved him..David saw a giant, Goliath. He was rude and very tall. Who is the tallest person you've ever seen?Show me with your arms how tall. Wow, that is so tall! But Goliath was even taller.Was David afraid of Goliath?No not at all. Show me your face when you feel afraid. Now show me your face your face when you are brave!David prayed to God because he loved him. We can pray to God and love him, too. Take some time to pray with your toddler. Encourage them to sit with you and fold their hands, saying something like:God, thank you for making us and wanting to be our friend. Thank you for loving us, just like you loved David! We love you! Amen.Parent Encouragement - DavidHey Parents! Here's something for you to be encouraged by this week and get ideas to bring this Bible story into your everyday conversation with your child at home!DownloadToddler Coloring Page - DavidAs your child colors this coloring page, they will be reminded that God loves David, and God loves them, too!DownloadToddler Crafts This week, your toddler will create their own scene from the Bible story by gluing 5 stones onto the river scene. This will remind them that David was brave and used a stone to defeat Goliath because he believed God was the biggest and strongest!DownloadToddler Activity In this activity, your toddler will have fun finding all the “stones” hidden around the room to place in David's shepherd pouch. This will remind of the Bible story about David!DownloadNavigating Parenthood Hey parents! Saddleback Parents has great training, tips, and tools to help you win. Check out http://saddlebackparents.com/ for resources to help guide you as you do the challenging and worthy work of raising brave, loving, kind kids who love God and others!Download

Are you struggling to get families engaged in discipleship? You've planned the events, sent the resources, and set up the opportunities — and still heard crickets. You are not alone. In this episode of the KMC Collective Podcast, Tom, Cole, Ben, and Vicki unpack the real reasons behind low family discipleship engagement — from parents feeling spiritually inadequate to overwhelmed schedules — and share practical, proven strategies that are working in children's ministries of every size. Discover simple, repeatable approaches like one-on-one family meetups, kid-led Bible challenges, worship playlists, and age-appropriate Bibles that help kids pastor leaders build a faith at home culture that actually sticks. Whether you lead a small church or a multi-site ministry, this episode will help you shift your perspective, engage more families, and grow your discipleship culture — starting today.

Hunter Mayo (Pastor of Family Ministry), Brian Weir (Pastor of Kids Ministry), and Caleb Pearson (Director of Student Ministry) explore the importance of partnering with parents in faith formation, passing the torch to the next generation, and creating opportunities for meaningful family and church engagement. They share vision, strategies, and upcoming events to strengthen family ministry at Fellowship Bible Church.

Join us as we dive into the Discipleship Pathway (7 Dimensions of a Spirit-Filled Disciple) for kids ministry and discuss hands-on ways to lead kids in this pathway, whether it be a Sunday morning, Girls Ministries, Royal Rangers, or other midweek experiences.

This session will explore practical methods of room management, engaging your kids, lesson delivery, and other tools that you can use to de-chaos your kids' ministry, level-up your service times, lead more confidently, and connect deeper with your kids.

Zacchaeus did not have very many friends. Mostly because he wasn't very friendly. But one day he met Jesus and all of that changed! Join Arlo, Kelby, and Tilly as they learn all about Zacchaeus.

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.

In this episode of Kids Ministry Calling, we explore practical ways to make midweek kids ministry both fun and meaningful. From creating a relaxed, engaging environment to balancing teaching with relationship-building, this conversation is packed with ideas to help kids feel like they truly belong—not just attend.We unpack the FLIP model—a simple framework for building connections between kids, leaders, influencers, and pastors—and why those relationships are key to lasting discipleship. You'll also hear how to use tools like Hi-Fi curriculum and TeamKid to equip volunteers, engage kids, and reinforce identity in Christ in ways that stick. Because at the end of the day, participation isn't the goal—belonging is.Whether you're rethinking your midweek strategy or looking for fresh ideas to energize your team, this episode will help you create a space where kids are known, valued, and excited to come back.Listen in and start building a midweek ministry kids don't just show up to—they belong to.SHOW LINKS:Connect with Lifeway Kids Leave us a voice message here with any questions or feedback!

The friends at Happy Harbor learn about someone who was good friends with God. His name was Daniel! His story is in God's special book, the Bible. Let's check out his story!

Today, Tilly teaches the friends all about someone named Joseph! Joseph had some crazy dreams and a big family. Check out the whole story in this episode!And for more great stories, don't forget to look for Stories of the Bible from Saddleback Kids!“And we know that in all things, God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose.” (Romans 8:28, NLT)Genesis 37 The same question gets asked in a variety of forms: Where is God when it hurts? Why do bad things happen to good people? How can a good and loving God allow suffering?Joseph could have asked these same questions; maybe he did. Mistreated and abused by his brothers, and eventually sold into slavery by them, Joseph could have easily chosen to believe that this was all evidence that God didn't love him or wasn't “on his side.” Isn't that the same place our minds are often tempted to go when we face difficulties or troubles? “God must not care about me. If He did, these things wouldn't be happening to me.” This seems to be especially true if our troubles come about because of other people's meanness or sin, while we were simply trying to live our lives following God.Joseph was living a life of obedience even as a young boy. He wasn't perfect, as evidenced by his somewhat boastful interactions with his brothers, where he relayed his dreams of ruling over them. But he definitely didn't deserve to be thrown in a pit and then sold as a slave by his own family members! Can you imagine how he must have felt when his brothers ripped off his colorful robe? This robe represented the special bond he had with his father and his brothers, in their jealousy, destroyed it.Have you ever seen something you treasured be ripped apart before your eyes? Maybe it was a tangible object like Joseph's robe, or maybe it was a long-treasured dream that you saw crumble. In those moments, it's easy to ask, “Where are you, God? Don't you see me?”One thing we can learn from Joseph's life is that God never leaves us. Even when we can't see Him or feel Him, He is there and He is working on our behalf. Joseph must have wondered what God was up to as he was being led off to Egypt as a slave, but he didn't waiver in his trust and obedience to God.Questions to think about:How does it feel to be mistreated when you have done nothing wrong?What do you learn from Joseph's life that can help you respond to people who mistreat you or are jealous of you?Do you ever struggle with envy like Joseph's brothers did? If so, what are some healthy ways you can deal with it?

Fun in kids ministry doesn't happen by accident—it's designed.In this episode of Kids Ministry Calling, Jana sits down with Joey Kiker, Lifeway's Creative Director, to talk about how intentional design can transform the way kids experience ministry. From room layout to lighting to technology, Joey shares how the physical environment can help create spaces where kids feel excited, welcomed, and ready to engage.Joey unpacks the principles behind world building—the idea that every detail in your environment helps tell a story and invite kids into the experience. He also offers practical advice for churches looking to remodel or refresh their kids spaces, no matter the size of their budget.Whether you're planning a major renovation or simply trying to make your classroom more inviting, this conversation will help you think creatively and strategically about the spaces where discipleship happens. Because when kids walk into a space designed with them in mind, they don't just notice—it communicates that they matter.Listen in for practical ideas and fresh inspiration to create environments kids can't wait to come back to.SHOW LINKS:Connect with Lifeway Kids Leave us a voice message here with any questions or feedback!

In this episode, I chat with Kyle Worley — pastor, author, and podcast host — to talk about his new children's book The Dragon Slayer and His Super Special Suit, the doctrine of union with Christ, and what deep discipleship actually looks like for kids, volunteers, and families.Resources mentioned:The Dragon Slayer and His Super Special SuitDeep Discipleship CurriculumMore from Kyle Worley

When there is a big scary storm going on, what do you do to stay brave? Do you find your parents and hide under them? Maybe you even like storms? Arlo and the gang learned about a storm that was especially scary for some fishermen, but Jesus took a nap right in the middle of it!Jesus Calms the Storm“When Jesus woke up, he rebuked the wind and said to the waves, ‘Silence! Be still!' Suddenly the wind stopped, and there was a great calm.” (Mark 4:39)Mark 4:35-41Jesus told us in scripture that we will face many trials in this life (John 16:33). This is a fact of life – not an “if,” but a “when.” Maybe you have not experienced trials yet or maybe you have been through more than your fair share of struggle. Whatever the case may be, God can handle it.Jesus demonstrates His power to the disciples by effortlessly calming a raging storm after suggesting He and the disciples cross the lake in a boat. Soon after setting off on their journey, a storm, described as “fierce,” comes upon them. The boat began to fill with water and, understandably so, the disciples began to panic. They looked around for Jesus, but could not find Him. Eventually, they found Him sleeping peacefully in the back of the boat. He was unfazed by the storm because He was not afraid. The disciples began yelling, “Don't you care that we are going to drown?” Jesus woke up and using only His voice, instructed the waves and wind to be still. Immediately, the storm subsided.Once the storm had ended, Jesus turned to His disciples and asked, “Why are you afraid? Do you still have no faith?” In the midst of a raging storm, Jesus felt peace because He knew He was stronger than the storm. He would not let it bring down the ship. Yet, the disciples let fear consume them when they faced the storm, not believing that Jesus could save them.When trials or “storms” enter our lives, it is easy to let our fear lead us. Let this miracle be a testament to the power of Christ in our lives. By calming the dangerous storm, He showed us that He can calm any type of storm we are facing. When something scary happens, we do not have to be afraid because Jesus has proved that He is more powerful than anything we will face, including nature.Questions to think about:What storm are you facing?What stands in the way of you handing over your fear to Christ?Is there a time in your life when Jesus has calmed a storm you faced? Trust that He can do it again.

In this episode of the KMC Collective Podcast, Tom, Cole, Vicki, and Ben continue their “Called or Confused” conversation, responding to a listener's question about whether being “called to ministry” applies only to pastors. They emphasize that every follower of Jesus shares the same calling to follow Christ, love God and others, and make disciples through the Great Commission, regardless of job or title. The team distinguishes calling from spiritual gifting and vocation, warning against overthinking calling, equating identity with a ministry role, or letting labels and titles define worth. Ben shares his burnout and transition out of church work into pest control and YouTube, describing how rediscovering identity as God's child restored clarity and freedom. They encourage leaders to remain faithful, stay open-handed, and keep calling from twisting under cultural pressure.  

Happy Easter everyone!

Have you ever confused your calling with your job title? You're not the only one — and it may be doing more damage than you think. In this heartfelt and eye-opening episode, Tom, Cole, and Vicki sit down to tackle one of the most important — and most overlooked — conversations in ministry leadership: understanding the difference between your calling, your identity, and your vocation. With raw personal stories, honest laughs, and practical wisdom from a combined decades of kids ministry experience, this conversation is for every ministry leader who has ever felt confused, burned out, or blindsided — and wondered what it all means for their future in ministry. What we dig into: The real reason so many kids pastors and ministry leaders are walking away How blurring the lines between calling, identity, and vocation can quietly destroy you What it actually means to be called — and why it's simpler than you might think How to get grounded in who God says you are, not just what you do Why your calling is bigger than any role, church, or season of life Whether you're brand new to ministry or have been serving for years, this episode will meet you right where you are. So grab your coffee, open your journal, and let's get into it — this is a conversation that could change everything.

In this special church highlight episode, we take a closer look at First Orlando Kids Ministry and the heart behind what makes it so impactful. Conversations from Metro reveal that kids ministry is both deeply intentional and joyfully engaging—where fun isn't just noise, but a meaningful tool for connection and discipleship.It's a reminder that what may look like organized chaos is actually Kingdom work with eternal impact! SHOW LINKS:Connect with Lifeway Kids Leave us a voice message here with any questions or feedback!

In this episode, I am joined by a Abbey Wedgeworth. Abbey is a mom, wife, writer, chief encourager of moms. She has a new book out this week called, Help! I'm Ruining my Kids and it is centered around how the Gospel can transform motherhood. We talk about how the local church can be a safe place for parents who are struggling and how we can partner well without bringing shame. This is the book of the summer for moms and I hope you gift it to a few of the moms in your community! Resources Mentioned: Abbey's new bookKids Ministry Circle Summit

Have you ever wondered who made everything? God did! That's why God loves you so much, because He made you! Let's hear about from our friends.thing just for you to enjoy this Bible story for yourself. We encourage you to read over this devotional sometime this week as a way to reflect on the Bible story your child saw from Church at Home. We love you!DownloadElementary Activity SheetsEach week we have a variety of activity pages to help your child remember the week's lesson. They include new coloring pages and activity sheets to enjoy!DownloadNavigating ParenthoodHey parents! Saddleback Parents has great training, tips, and tools to help you win. Check out this Two-Minute Tip, The Universal Talk, all about communicating your child's value as someone created by God.Download

Sharing the gospel with kids sounds simple, but one wrong word can create confusion that lasts for years. In this episode, Tom, Cole, Ben, and Vicki tackle the tough questions: Are you using too many Christian terms? Is your "hand raise" invitation actually clear? And what happens after kids say yes? These children's ministry leaders dig into why clarity matters, how to avoid confusing language like "ask Jesus into your heart," and why following up is just as important as the initial invitation. You'll hear real stories from Easter egg hunts and church camps where kids didn't actually understand what they were committing to—and practical strategies to prevent it. Whether you're presenting the gospel at a big event or every Sunday, this conversation will challenge how you share Jesus with the next generation. Discover why consistency, clear language, and discipleship are the keys to helping kids truly understand and remember the gospel. Join the conversation in the KMC Collective Facebook group and share your gospel presentation strategies. Want help with getting clarity: Set up a 30 Minute Clarity call with a KMC Coach

This episode features insights from kids ministry leaders at CPC Orlando, sharing innovative ways to keep children engaged and foster a fun, faith-filled environment. Topics include encouraging curiosity through questions, making ministry fun with bright colors and music, and involving kids in leadership roles.Connect with Lifeway Kids Leave us a voice message here with any questions or feedback!

Who is in Kelby's treasure chest this week? Kelby, Arlo, and Tilly all learn about an amazing woman named Esther this week! Come along with us to Happy Harbor to pop some bubbles, ride the Bible train, and hear an amazing story all about God's love.EstherHey parents! Use these questions as a guide to talk over this week's lesson about Esther with your child after they've watched the video service!Who was today's Bible story about?Esther. God made Esther and she loved God.What did Esther wear on her head?A crown! The crown showed everyone that Esther was a queen.One day, she heard someone was going to do something bad. Uh oh! Did Esther stop the bad thing from happening?Yes! She stopped the bad plan. Shake your head “no” because the plan was not good.Esther had to do something brave and tell the king to stop the bad plan. Can you be brave, too?Yes! God helps us be brave. Show me your strong arms because God made us to do good and brave things.Take some time to pray with your toddler. Encourage your toddler to sit with you and fold their hands, saying something like:God, thank you for loving us and wanting to be our friend. Thank you for making us. Help us do good things and be brave like Esther! We love you! Amen.Parent Encouragement - EstherHey parents! Here's something for you to be encouraged by and get ideas to bring this Bible story into your everyday conversation with your child at home!DownloadToddler Craft – Esther Character StickIn this craft, your toddler will create their own Esther Character Stick to remind them of the main character from the Bible story. God made Esther, and God made them!DownloadToddler Activity – Talk Like EstherIn this activity, your toddler will bring the craft they made to life. They will practice saying and doing things with their Esther Character Stick to remember this Bible story about Esther.DownloadToddler Coloring Page - EstherWe have a variety of coloring pages to help your child remember familiar faces from this month's lesson!DownloadNavigating Parenthood - EstherHey parents! Saddleback Parents has great training, tips, and tools to help you win. Check out this blog post all about how to foster healthy obedience in our children that comes from a place of love and respect rather than rules they follow out of obligationDownloadAt Saddleback Kids we believe every kid should be known, connected, equipped and empowered. KNOWN by another kid and a leader. CONNECTED to a group where they can grow spiritually. EQUIPPED with the tools and the knowledge to develop a strong faith in Jesus. EMPOWERED to serve others and share Jesus in the world.To sum it up, Saddleback Kids exists to connect kids to God and others while helping them live a purpose driven life.

Do you ever feel like you're one tiny package of Goldfish away from a meltdown? You aren't alone. This week on the Kids Ministry Collective, Tom, Cole, and Vicki are getting real about the things they are officially "over" in children's ministry. From the frustration of being labeled "childcare" instead of a discipleship powerhouse, to the struggle of managing drop-off chaos, the team vents so you don't have to. But we aren't just complaining—we're finding the "positive spin" and leading with vision. Tune in for a rapid-fire episode filled with laughs, relatable rants, and practical shifts to help you move from babysitting to true ministry. Want a SAFE place to talk things through? Set up a 30 minute Conversation with a KMC Coach! Want to learn more about the Kids Ministry Collective one of the Original Places for Childrens Ministry Leaders!

In this episode of the Kids Ministry Calling Podcast, we sit down with longtime kids ministry leader Kelly Pekarek to talk about something every ministry leader needs more of....joy.With more than 21 years of experience in kids ministry, Kelly shares practical and encouraging insights on how leaders can cultivate fun, build meaningful relationships with kids and families, and create a ministry culture where volunteers feel excited to serve.From creative volunteer recruitment to simple tools that help busy families stay engaged in discipleship, this conversation is packed with ideas you can start using right away. Kelly reminds us that while kids ministry can feel busy and demanding, it should also be life-giving, relational, and full of joy.In This Episode, We Talk About:Why joy and fun are essential to a healthy kids ministry cultureHow relational ministry changes the way kids experience churchCreative and practical ways to recruit and retain volunteersWhy families today are busier than ever—and how the church can support themSimple strategies for helping parents disciple their kids at homeHow small ideas can create big moments of connection and communityKelly also shares some practical and creative ideas that help bring energy and connection to kids ministry:Bible Bingo – a fun and interactive way to help kids engage with ScriptureSummer Scoreboards – tracking participation, Scripture memory, and engagement throughout the summerCommunity-building activities that help kids and volunteers feel connectedFresh ways to make ministry environments welcoming, energetic, and memorableKelly's wisdom and experience will leave you encouraged, inspired, and reminded that joy is one of the most powerful tools we have in ministry.If this episode encouraged you, consider sharing it with another kids ministry leader who could use some fresh ideas and encouragement in their calling.SHOW LINKS: Sign up for ETCH Conference 2026Connect with Lifeway Kids Leave us a voice message here with any questions or feedback!

Adam talks with longtime children's pastor and author Marty Machowski about helping parents disciple their kids at home. Marty shares lessons from decades of ministry, why churches and families must partner together, and simple rhythms that help parents build faith conversations into everyday life. Follow Us:Instagram | Facebook | WebsiteEditing and support by The Good Podcast Co. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

  In this weeks Kids Ministry Collective Podcast, Our conversation asked the question: What if the biggest threat to your child's faith isn't what you think? Matt Markins, CEO of Awana, sits down with Tom and Ben to expose the counterfeit narratives quietly shaping kids' identities—often before they even turn 13. From screens to peers to well-meaning but watered-down Bible teaching, kids are absorbing stories that compete with the gospel every single day. In this conversation, Matt reveals his own battle with false narratives from childhood trauma, unpacks why "Bible light" moralism backfires, and shares practical tools to anchor children in the true story of Scripture: creation, fall, redemption, and restoration. If you're a parent, pastor, or ministry leader who wants to equip kids to stand firm in a culture of confusion, this episode is a must-listen. Mentioned on Episode:  Child Discipleship Forum BRITE Curriculum Kids Ministry Collective THE PLACE FOR KIDMIN!

Over 40 percent of the boys in this country don't have a dad at home. The result has been a dramatic increase in drug use and school drop-out—with some kids averaging up to 70 hours a week in front of a screen yet only 40 minutes outside. Countering that trend is Kids Outdoor Zone (KOZ), an outdoor ministry for boys that trains and equips men to mentor boys through outdoor adventure. In this episode, John talks with KOZ founder and Wild at Heart ally T.J. Greaney about his difficult boyhood, his deep love of nature and adventure, and the inspiring origin and growth of Kids Outdoor Zone.Show Notes: For details on how to start an outdoor ministry for boys at your church, visit KidsOutdoorZone.com. Discover more about Wild at Heart events and Fires at wildatheart.org/events. The book referenced in the podcast is Last Child in the Woods: Saving Our Children from Nature-Deficit Disorder by Richard Louv. Keywords: Christian, Kids Ministry, Outdoors, Kids Outdoor Zone_______________________________________________There is more.Got a question you want answered on the podcast? Ask us at Questions@WildatHeart.orgSupport the mission or find more on our website: WildAtHeart.org  or on our app.Apple: Wild At Heart AppAndroid: Wild At Heart AppWatch on YouTubeThe stock music used in the Wild at Heart podcast is titled “When Laid to Rest” by Patrick Rundblad and available here.More pauses available in the One Minute Pause app for Apple iOS and Android.Apple: One Minute Pause AppAndroid: One Minute Pause App

Are today's kids ministries actually helping—or unintentionally hurting—the faith of the next generation?Today I'm joined by family ministry veteran Dr. Josh Mulvihill for a candid, biblically grounded conversation about seven key problems in modern kids and youth ministry and why Christians can no longer afford to ignore them.Drawing from Scripture, church history, and current research, Josh challenges some of the most unquestioned assumptions in evangelical churches today, such as age-segregated worship, attractional entertainment models, and the growing confusion between the church's role and parents' God-given responsibility to disciple their children. This conversation is not a hit piece on kids ministry. Both of us love and support children's and youth ministry when they're aligned with Scripture. Instead, we hope this episode will be a wake-up call for parents, pastors, grandparents, and church leaders to evaluate how their churches can better reach the next generation. SHOW NOTES:Go to summit.org/natasha to learn about Summit Ministries' conferences for kids ages 13-22 and use code NATASHA26 to get $500 off an in-person conference when you register by March 31.Josh's website and podcast: https://gospelshapedfamily.com/Josh is the Executive Director of Church and Family Ministry at  Renewanation: https://www.renewanation.org/Josh is a board member of Awana: https://www.awana.org/Get Josh's book, "Family Ministry: How Your Church Can Shepherd Parents and Grandparents to Make Disciples": https://www.amazon.com/Family-Ministry-Shepherd-Grandparents-Disciples/dp/1951042093For more on how Dr. George Barna assesses the worldview of survey respondents, see: https://natashacrain.com/what-is-a-biblical-worldview-with-george-barna/. Learn more about my three apologetics books for parents and teachers: https://natashacrain.com/books/Curricula recommended by Josh: Bright https://britecurriculum.com/Gospel Story https://martymachowski.com/book/gospel-story-curriculum/