We live in a glorious era of technology. Our phones alone contain far more processing power than the first space shuttles. We can have conversations, order pizza, even find our future spouse—all from the palm of our hand. Even the most common individual has some of the greatest knowledge in history at their fingertips 24/7. How do you take this knowledge and make your children's ministry better?

It is easy to overlook parents, but this is a huge mistake. We need them, and they need us. So here are five ways I have found over two decades of youth and kids ministry to help you better connect with parents.

Whether your quizzers are on the winning team, or the team that came up just a little short, it’s your job as a parent or coach to make sure they react the right way. Here are three keys to making sure your quizzers are prepared to handle the joy of victory and the agony of defeat.

At a quiz meet, the adults in the room set the tone for the attitudes and interactions during each match. If the officials are smiling and happy, the quizzers are more relaxed. If the coach jokes with the other team, the kids view them more positively. It is our responsibility as JBQ leaders to promote this desired fellowship. This article shows 10 simple steps to ensure our JBQ meets set a positive tone.

I’m fearful that we are setting children’s ministry leaders up for frustration as it pertains to the future of family ministry. The truth of the matter is that the best family ministry strategy beings with the adults in the home growing personally in Christ and modeling healthy marriage and family relationships to the best of their ability.

“Love it, let’s do it!” There’s a pause in the room as no one wants to bring up what needs to be said next. In the back there’s a throat clear and then…the question. “How are we going to promote thi..” Nooooooo! The air in the creative room has been vacuumed out, a fire breaks out, a bear flies in, the ceiling collapses and the meeting is over because everyone is dead! Boy, that escalated quickly.