I believe God has raised up large churches to be a blessing to small ones. God has allowed me to serve in a couple of medium to large churches, as well as a few smaller ones. Serving in churches with more than 400 children each Sunday carries with it administrative and ministerial challenges. I know, I’ve been there. The large church children’s pastor cannot use these as an excuse to ignore the smaller works in his or her area.

Your large group or kids church time gives you the opportunity to create a space for kids to learn God’s Word in a dynamic, age-appropriate environment. The best way to maximize the time that you have with your kids is to craft an experience in which they want to participate. Here are some techniques you can use to create a large-group experience that is engaging and educational.

We live in an era filled with pressure to keep our kids busy. It used to be that kids kept themselves busy. Starting in the 20th century there was a huge movement to make sure our kids are constantly involved in some sort of activity all the time. This is causing unnecessary stress on not just us as parents, but on our kids.

Teaching kids to embrace the Holy Spirit’s presence in their lives is an important part of helping them grow as healthy disciples. Earlier this week, we discussed the idea that the Word and the Spirit are inseparable when it comes to knowing Jesus and following Him.

Have you ever noticed that the girls in your classes are more engaged than the boys? Why do you think that’s the case?

Back in 1977, when my pastor asked me to cover children’s church for one Sunday, I had no idea that thirty-eight years later I’d be writing this blog post. I also had no idea what God had in store for me. I’m thankful for all the wonderful doors, like this one, that He opened.