About the Children's Department: June 2012

Saturday, June 30, 2012

Look What I'm Talking About in July!

For the past couple weeks I've been sharing web sites and blogs well worth reading - especially well worth adding to your Summer reading list! As we go into July, I'll continue to share web sites and blogs with you and I also want to give you some ideas of things you could do to begin to build enthusiasm and excitement for your volunteers, families and communities as you get ready for your Fall ministries!

I Have a Winner . . .

I'm happy to announce Brenda Borck is the winner of the Highlights Buzz Blast game (you will find the review at this link). Thank you Brenda for reading About the Children's Department (please message me your address by July 13, 2012 so I can have it sent to you), and thank you Discovery Bay Games for sending one for me to review and for making another available for me to give away!

Surf's Up! Children's Ministry Resources Around the Web . . . STRAIGHT4ward with Loretta Baughan!

Okay, first of all, STRAIGHT4ward with Loretta Baughan isn't "technically" a children's ministry blog and secondly my sister is Loretta Baughan, but this is absolutely a blog well worth adding to your list of must-read blogs! Loretta writes this blog because, "Life is full of twists and turns, triumphs and pitfalls, ups and downs. This blog and the coming podcasts will attempt to tackle issues confronting modern-day families, from the perspective of a Christian conservative, straight-talking mom."

I'm delighted to share with you a new blog where you will find information, ideas and resources to "help you iNspire kids to iMitate God"! iKids is written by Ron Brooks and as he says, it is his goal to help you "find many resources you are free to use. Everything from lessons, to devotion guides, blog entries, videos and more. Feel free to look around and use anything you see. Everything we do is done to encourage and build up our kids. We believe they can know God in a personal way, and He can use them the same way He can use adults. For this reason, we chose the following verse to be our main theme for all we do. 1 Timothy 4:12 Don’t let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in life, in love, in faith and in purity"

Surf's Up! Children's Ministry Resources Around the Web . . . joemcalpine.com and samluce.com!

If you are looking for a site where you can find posts with information to help you understand children's ministry better, take a few minutes to check out joemcalpine.com. "Joe McAlpine is the Children’s Pastor at Cornerstone Church in Midwest City, OK. In 2009 he created www.joemcalpine.com, a website dedicated to helping leaders in next generation ministry grow spiritually, relationally and organizationally. He is also the co-founder of the Re:New Children’s Ministry Gathering, and a member of the Board of Directors for the American Children’s Ministers Association. Joe has a passion to help young leaders of next generation, family based ministries grow into seasoned ministry professionals of tomorrow. Joe lives out his passion for next generation leaders by tapping into his experience as a husband of one, father of four, pastor and life long lover of of learning." You'll find information on ministry, leadership, resources and more on Joe's site and are sure to appreciate how he gets right to the point in his posts . . . they just make a lot of sense! Thank you Joe for providing this resource to help us understand children's ministry better . . . it does!

There are many things in this world which tear apart the family and cause damage to children . . . one of these things is most certainly divorce. Those of us in children's ministry see how divorce impacts children, but we may not really know how to help them. This is where Divorce Ministry 4 Kids comes in. Wayne Stocks is the man with the vision for this ministry. He wants us to step up and focus on strengthening families and helping those impacted by divorce so we can raise up a generation of godly children. The goals of Divorce Ministry 4 Kids are . . .

Surf's Up! Children's Ministry Resources Around the Web . . . Ministry Stuff!

ministrystuff is written by Jonathan Barnard and Nathan Headley and they have a unique perspective on ministry - which is reflected in their blog. They have been, "together at The Rock in Castle Rock where a strong and close friendship was birthed. They found out power comes when working together in Kids and Youth ministry. So many times the youth and kid's ministries are in competition with one another, but Jonathan and Nathan both have a passion to put the competition between ministries to rest and to harness the power which comes when we work together to raise up the next generation to be passionate followers of Christ."

As you think about which websites and blogs you want to make a part of your daily reading, definitely take a look at Making Room! As they say, "'Making room' is one of the signs of true Christian community. It is not only to open one's door and one's church to someone. It is to make room in one's heart. Making room for each person to be and to grow; where each person knows he or she is accepted just as they are, with their gifts and their faults."

Surf's Up! Children's Ministry Resources Around the Web . . . CM Buzz!

I've been highlighting websites and blogs well worth checking out with the goal of adding to your daily-must-read-list. Today I want to encourage you to check CM Buzz! CM Buzz stands for Creative Ministry Buzz . . . and is the work of Keith Tusing . . . "he is the Family Ministries Pastor with 20+ years of experience serving churches in Texas and Arizona. His passion is to see Children's and Family Ministries which encourage leaders to partner with parents in developing the next generation." Keith says, "CM Buzz is a blog dedicated to sharing insights and ideas to encourage creative ministry to children, teens and families."

I'm happy to share with you a sneak peek at the 2013 VBS from Regular Baptist Press, Investigation Destination! RBP says, "With Investigation Destination, students become secret agents sent out on important missions to discover clues about a special person, the King of Kings. Together you will investigate Scriptural eyewitness accounts of the King in action. Every day, the secret agents will start off their investigation together at Central Command for a time of worship and singing. They may even get to meet Tracker—our investigator dog, or Spy Guy! Game time in the Agency Gym is sure to keep your students focused on the mission at hand. Crafts in the training center help remind students of the truths they’ve learned from each mission. They’ll enjoy snacks in the break room, but most importantly, students will be sent into the field to five locations around the globe where they’ll follow clues to the King of Kings." Let's take a look at their scope and sequence . . .

Surf's Up! Children's Ministry Resources Around the Web . . . jonathancliff.com and Manners Mentor Blog!

I've shared a number of wonderful websites and blogs with you where you will find excellent information, ideas and resources for children's ministry . . . I'd like to add a couple more for you to check out . . . jonathancliff.com and Maralee McKee manners mentor blog!

As I wrote about last week, I'm focusing this month on Depending on and Trusting God. I said I would, "post about the monthly focus and encourage us all to keep our focus on growing in our own walk with Jesus and then gave you a Scripture passage and prayer to think about and make your own - "Psalm 86:1-5 'Please listen, Lord, and answer my prayer! I am poor and helpless. ²Protect me and save me because you are my God. I am your faithful servant, and I trust you. ³Be kind to me! I pray to you all day. ⁴Make my heart glad! I serve you, and my prayer is sincere. ⁵You willingly forgive, and your love is always there for those who pray to you.'

As you go finish this month, please continue to make this your prayer . . . 'Dear Lord, please listen to and answer my prayer because You are my God and I need You to protect and save me. As I go through this day, please help me remember to live as Your faithful servant and to trust You. Please be kind to me and make my heart glad and I will pray to You all day and serve You! I thank and praise You for how You so willingly forgive me and find comfort and strength in knowing Your love is always there for those who pray to You . . . I will be one of those who pray to You! Thank You, Amen!'"

Surf's Up! Children's Ministry Resources Around the Web . . . [kidinspiration] and JamieDoyle(dot)com!

I recently read one of the most powerful and truthful blog posts I've ever read . . . so I have to include David Wakerly's blog [kidinspiration] on my daily-must-read-list of blogs! "David and his wife Beci Wakerley are Children’s Pastors in Sydney, Australia and they have a passion to see Children’s Ministries around the world flourish and thrive… in reading this blog, David hopes you will find inspiration and resource to inspire and encourage! Also a growing community of leaders committed to seeing God’s children all over the globe reached with the gospel of Christ." On this blog you will find posts sure to get you thinking and sure to be a source of great encouragement and help in your children's ministry. David also has an archive of his past posts - all the way back to 2004! - and a Children's Ministry Blog Roll. Thank you David for this blog and the encouragement it is sure to bring! Oh, and by the way . . . take a moment right now to read this powerful post . . . "Don't Outsource What Only You Can Do!" . . . you'll be glad you did!

Surf's Up! Children's Ministry Resources Around the Web . . . Ministry-To-Children!

As you consider the variety of different children's ministry websites and blogs available for you to utilize, Ministry-To-Children absolutely must be on your daily-must-read-list! This site began in 2007 when Tony Kummer launched it as his personal blog, but it quickly became a site nearly everyone in children's ministry turns to in search of information, ideas and resources! Tony says, "This website is here to make your ministry better. We have over 1,000 free articles and resources with more being posted every day. The cool part . . . everything here is 100% free for you to use in your church, home or school! In addition to Tony's leadership, over ten writers contribute each month. Their collective goal is to help you as you serve God's kids."

I've been posting all week about websites and blogs for you to consider making part of your daily-must-read-list and invite you to consider two more . . . Lemon Lime Kids and Lori Bethran!

I Have a Winner . . .

I'm happy to announce Janie Little Upchurch is the winner in my The Berenstain Bears: Honey Hunt Helpers book give-away! (You'll find the review at this link) Thank you Janie for reading About the Children's Department (please message me your address so I can have it sent to you) and thank you Berenstain Bears and Zonderkidz for sending one for me to review and for making another available for me to give away!

Surf's Up! Children's Ministry Resources Around the Web . . . Kidmin1124!

As you think about which websites and blogs you want to make a part of your daily reading, definitely take a look at Kidmin1124! "Kidmin1124.com is a site dedicated to those who volunteer in, work bi-vocationally or part-time in, or give their time to children’s ministry (frequently known as kidmin). There are hundreds and thousands of volunteers who work in kidmin each and every week who are passionate about sharing God and His Word with children, bringing children into the kingdom of God, and coming alongside parents in the spiritual instruction and nurturing of their kids." Unlike most websites and blogs, "Kidmin1124 is a group blogging project for bi-vocational and volunteer children’s ministry workers.

I have another "sneak peek" at VBS 2013 for you . . . Colossal Coaster World from LifeWay! Along with having this as their VBS for 2013, it looks like LifeWay is also doing something new with their Colossal Coaster World Backyard Kid's Club kit - I'll be looking forward to being able to sit down and take a closer look at these! Lifeway says, "Through every twist, turn, and dive, Colossal Coaster World will challenge kids to face their fears and trust God. There's excitement around every curve as kids learn that God has given them a spirit of power, love, and sound judgment. This evangelistic VBS is the ultimate ride. At the end of the week, kids will want to do it all over again!" Let's take a look at their scope and sequence -

Surf's Up! Children's Ministry Resources Around the Web . . . danscottblog and itodd!

As you check out websites and blogs this week, be absolutely certain to make a stop at danscottblog.com. Dan describes himself and his blog as follows - "follower. of Jesus. husband. to Jenna. father. kids. of church.to Liam, Ellison, Addison, & Taye. orange creative. to bring joy. vulnerable. here, there, and everywhere. seriously, ask me anything. lover. of God. of Jenna. of of life. friend. to many of whom i don’t deserve. son. of Gordon and Janet. communicator. through print design. music. written word. spoken word. supporter.of social justice. of environment. of community. pastor. teacher. artist." Dan writes his "thoughts on life, leadership and a whole lot of kidmin" and is absolutely well worth making his blog a daily stop on your must-read list! Thanks Dan for writing creatively about the things we need to stop and think about when it comes to kidmin!

Today I'm taking a look at another well-known must-follow website and blog . . . Kidology and Kidologist. Both of these sites are written, designed and developed by Karl Bastian. So what is Kidology? According to their website, "Kidology is a non-profit organization which exists to equip and encourage those who minister to children. Our primary ministry is Kidology.org, a website where each day over 20,000 children's ministry leaders and volunteers find help, ideas, training, and resources which enables them to most effectively reach and teach kids." When I say there are a wealth of resources on this one website, I am absolutely not overstating it! If you are looking for object lessons, games, puppet scripts, articles, reviews, creative PowerPoint tools, magic tricks, and much more you will absolutely find them here! If you are looking for children's ministry resources to buy - or sell - you can do it on Kidology! There are surveys, conference info, job postings and so much more. Take some time to check out Kidology - you will be so glad you did! When Karl Bastian says the goal of Kidology is to equip and encourage those who minister to children . . . he is absolutely right!

I'm happy to share with you the 2013 VBS from a new company to the world of VBS resources . . . NextGen4Christ. Their theme for 2013, the Fringe Files of the Bible, is unique and looks like it is one which will have kids talking about the new things they discover about God and His Word as they "Investigate the Impossible"! NextGen4Christ says, "Every day, we encourage kids to ask 'Who', 'What', 'Where', and 'Why' to discover the truth in the Bible. We also want kids to learn to ask 'How should it change my life?' and discover patterns in the Bible stories. The pattern in all of our Fringe Files stories is 'God Saves'." Let's take a look at their scope and sequence . . .

Surf's Up! A Must-Read Resource from the Web - A Holy Experience

My friend Maralee McKee - the Manners Mentor - shared a link to a blog today which I have to share with you all. A Holy Experience is written by Ann Voskamp; she describes her blog as follows:

I'm happy to share with you a "sneak peek" at Concordia's VBS for 2013 - Tell It on the Mountain - Where Jesus Christ is Lord! Concordia says, "At Tell It on the Mountain, our 2013 VBS, your children will learn about the Only True God through five mountaintop Bible accounts where God meets His people with clear messages of His might and power. God’s message of salvation through Jesus our Savior is one to shout out and share from the mountaintops to the four corners of the world. As the children hear the Bible stories at our VBS, they will learn who our almighty God is and how He works in their faith and life. Just as solid rock walls provide a secure anchor for climbers to ascend the mountain face and strong knots in their rope hold them close to the rock, God’s Word is rock solid truth. God Himself is present in His Word, providing a solid anchor and holding us securely against the buffeting of sin, Satan, and death. God’s Word is life—now and forever." Let's take a look at their scope and sequence -

Surf's Up! Children's Ministry Resources Around the Web . . . Diving for Pearls, Church4EveryChild and Key Ministry!

In my last post about Children's Ministry resources around the web, I wrote about two wonderful sites filled with information, ideas and resources to help families with children with special needs and equip churches so they know how to serve them in the most effective ways. Today, I'd like to mention three more sites which will give you additional tools to help you serve this very important group of parents.

I've been writing about our "focus", both on a personal level and as it relates to our ministry. I said, "We can not give to others what we do not have for ourselves. If we are not growing spiritually, we will not be equipped to help our volunteers grow spiritually. If they are not growing spiritually, how can we expect the children in our ministries to grow? Sometimes it is easy - too easy - to focus on the "things" we need to do and lose sight of the thing we really need to be focused on . . . knowing and walking with Jesus."

I'm happy for the opportunity to share another "sneak peek" at VBS 2013 with you . . . Athens - Paul's Dangerous Journey to Share the Truth", from Group Publishing. Group says, "Imagine leaving a life of privilege and power to face angry mobs, painful imprisonment, and chain-breaking earthquakes—all to spread the life-changing truth of God’s love. Learn the jaw-dropping story of the Apostle Paul straight from Paul himself! In an ancient “anything goes” culture, Paul will inspire kids to share the truth of God’s immeasurable love today!" Let's take a look at their scope and sequence . . .

I LOVE VBS! It is such a wonderful opportunity to get children to focus on one theme for five days and introduce them to Jesus! It is also a wonderful opportunity to help children grow in their walk with Jesus! And, it is a great opportunity for children to be at church and have fun! Lots of reasons to love VBS! So, I look forward each year to when publishers announce their VBS themes for the following year - they used to wait until November to do this, but now they announce in May and June!

I'm happy today to share with you a "sneak peek" at the 2013 VBS theme for Group Publishing - Kingdom Rock - Where Kids Stand Strong for God! Group says, "Enter the epic adventure which empowers kids to stand strong. Here, God’s victorious power isn’t a fairy tale—it changes kids forever." Let's take a look at the scope and sequence for Kingdom Rock -

Please Check My Post on CM Buzz - Are You a Seed Planter or a Harvester?

When you have a moment, please check my new post on CM Buzz, Be a Seed Planter! In it I shared some amazing, incredible, fabulous news and asked some questions about if you approach your children’s ministry with the view of “planting seeds” or of being the “harvester”? Please check this post when you have a moment - and all the other great posts on CM Buzz!

Put Feet to Their Faith and Help Children in South Sudan

I've been talking this month about involving the children and families in your church in a project with Samaritan's Purse to help children and families in Sudan and South Sudan; today I'd like to encourage you to consider planning a "Beans and Sorghum" dinner to raise awareness and money for this project.

As I continue to share information about children's ministry websites and blogs, I am so delighted for the opportunity to let you know about two "must-read" sites. One of the most under-served areas of children's ministry is the area of serving children and families where there is a child with special needs. It can be difficult to find resources, ideas, information, answers to questions and encouragement so you will be able to fully welcome these children and their families to your church. Far too often when a family has a child with special needs they end up disconnected from church because the church doesn't have a plan to welcome their child and train volunteers so they are able to know how to most effectively engage their child in class. Some parents take turns going to church, but far too often they end up just staying home. All parents need the support and encouragement a church can offer them, but parents of a special needs child need this support and encouragement so much more. I'm so happy to be able to recommend two resources chocked full of information, ideas and genuine help for you in this very important area of serving children and families where there is a child with special needs . . . the Inclusive Church and A Different Dream.

So . . . What Are Your Favorite Children's Ministry Websites and Blogs?

One of the best things about the internet is the ability it gives us to find information, ideas and resources at our fingertips. There are a wealth of websites and blogs available for us to learn from, be encouraged through and find answers for our children's ministry questions, so next week I'll be talking about children's ministry websites and blogs . . . both those we all know about as well as some you may not be as familiar with. In the coming days I'll post some thoughts about a well-known website/blog and lesser known sites as well. If you have a favorite site, please take a moment to let me know about it - maybe it'll be one I include in my posts!

Friday, June 15, 2012

Focus for June . . . Depend on and Trust God to Heal Your Hurts

As I wrote about last week, I'm focusing this month on Depending on and Trusting God. As I said, "We can not give to others what we do not have for ourselves. If we are not growing spiritually, we will not be equipped to help our volunteers grow spiritually. If they are not growing spiritually, how can we expect the children in our ministries to grow? Sometimes it is easy - too easy - to focus on the "things" we need to do and lose sight of the thing we really need to be focused on . . . knowing and walking with Jesus." I posted a personalized Scripture prayer from Psalm 86 for us to focus on this month which encourages us to depend on and trust God.

Family Game Night . . . Buzz Blast . . . I'm Giving One Away!

I recently wrote about planning special events at your church for families from your church and community. I said, "Family events can provide excellent opportunities to reach out to families in your church and community and bring them together so they can experience and learn God's Word together - this can generate great enthusiasm for both families in and out of your church! The key word for family events is "together"! Children's ministry tends to provide opportunities for children - just as adult ministries tend to do the same for adults. Family events allow you to minister to parents and children together!" This is true!

The Angels Were Celebrating Yesterday! (So Was This grandma!)

Oh yes! Yesterday there was some serious celebrating going on in Heaven because yesterday my dear, sweet grandson, Josiah, "became part of God's family!" There are phone calls which you receive in your lifetime which stand out in your memory as calls you'll never forget . . . well, this call from Josiah is one I'll never forget! He said, "Grandma, I'm part of God's family, now!" The words I wanted to hear! The most important words he will ever tell me for sure!

Put Feet to Their Faith - Involve Your Kids in Helping Children in South Sudan

As you begin your summer ministry to the children and families in your church and community please plan to involve them in an opportunity to help others . . . such as the children and families in South Sudan. Before I talk about some ideas you could use with the children and families in your ministry, I want to share an update on South Sudan from Samaritan's Purse . . .

Children's Church Curriculum - Comparison Chart

For the past week I've been reviewing Children's Church Curriculum so today I'm releasing my Children's Church Side-by-Side Comparison Chart to help you as you evaluate curriculum resources. Remember, if you are going to find your best curriculum "fit" you need to know your vision and purpose for your children's ministry so you are able to identify what it is you want the children in your ministry to learn. Don't select a curriculum for any of the following reasons -

Two things you can do to encourage families involves books . . . you can stock your church library with great titles for families to enjoy and you can recommend books for families to read together at home. One such book is the Berenstain Bears Honey Hunt Helpers . . . and I'm happy to say, I have one to give away!

I Have a Winner . . .

I'm happy to announce Joan Rohrs Salsbury is the winner in my The Berenstain Bears Help the Homeless book give-away! (You'll find the review at this link) Thank you Joan for reading About the Children's Department and thank you Zonderkidz for sending one for me to review and for making another available for me to give away!

Look What's Coming Tomorrow and Next Week . . .

Tomorrow I'll be posting my side-by-side curriculum comparison chart for Children's Church resources and I'll be up-dating my Sunday School side-by-side comparison charts with some more current information - I want these resources to be as accurate and helpful as possible!

As I wrap up my Children's Church Curriculum Reviews, I want to include another Large Group/Small Group curriculum resource - What's In the Bible - Church Edition Curriculum. We are all familiar with, and love, Phil Vischer's work on VeggieTales; so when I heard about this new curriculum from Phil and his writers Lori Bethran and Amy Dolan I included it in my Sunday School curriculum reviews . . . but it is also a great option for children's church as well! What's In The Bible is a DVD based curriculum which is designed to take children on a journey through the Bible to find out "what is in the Bible". Allow me to share with you some information about What's In The Bible - Church Edition Curriculum!

Publisher - Jellyfish Labs
Website - curriculum.whatsinthebible.com
Price - $80 for one DVD with four complete lessons . . . watch for sales and if you use amysniece at checkout, you'll receive free shipping.
Scope - Through the Bible-Biblical Literacy
Available for Elementary age children

Don't Forget - Tomorrow I'm Giving Away One Berenstain Bears Book!

Yes, tomorrow, June 8, 2012 I'm giving away one The Berenstain Bears Help the Homeless book! (Check this link for the specifics) I'm also giving away one Bizzy Bear: Off We Go! book and one Love Never Dies Blu-ray (the sequel to Phantom of the Opera) tomorrow on my other blog, grandma's cookie jar. (check this link and this link for the specifics for these drawings) Thank you for reading About the Children's Department!

Children's Church Curriculum Reviews - K.I.D.S. Church and Jr. K.I.D.S. Church!

Gospel Light has another option for you to consider for children's church - K.I.D.S. Church and Jr. K.I.D.S. Church curriculum kits! These curriculum resources are "high-energy, multi-media programs with everything you need to put on a life-changing reproducible 52-week program." Allow me to share with you some information about K.I.D.S. Church!

Publisher - Gospel Light

Website - http://www.gospellight.com/Sunday-School/Large-Group-Small-Group.aspx
Price - $179.99 - for one quarter
Scope - Topical three year scope for elementary and preschool
Available for preschool through 6th grade

Children's Church Curriculum Reviews - KidsOwn Worship!

When it comes to resources for children's church, another resource worth taking a look at is Group's KidsOwn Worship curriculum! This curriculum is part of the FaithWeaver line of resources and the lessons coordinate with FaithWeaver Sunday School curriculum. Allow me to share with you some information about KidsOwn Worship!

Group's Kids Own Worship Leader Guide, Projects-with-a-Purpose Leader Guide, Skits Booklet, VHS Tape (8 parts), Songs from FaithWeaver CD (26 tracks), Poster and Binder Full of Songs

Publisher - Group Publishing
Website- http://group.com/childrens-ministry/sunday-school/faithweaver
Price - 13 week materials $119.99
Scope - Chronological through the Bible in three years
Available for preschool through 6th grade

Page List

Saturday, June 30, 2012

Friday, June 29, 2012

Thursday, June 28, 2012

Wednesday, June 27, 2012

Tuesday, June 26, 2012

Monday, June 25, 2012

Sunday, June 24, 2012

Saturday, June 23, 2012

Friday, June 22, 2012

Thursday, June 21, 2012

Wednesday, June 20, 2012

Tuesday, June 19, 2012

Monday, June 18, 2012

Saturday, June 16, 2012

Friday, June 15, 2012

Wednesday, June 13, 2012

Tuesday, June 12, 2012

Monday, June 11, 2012

Saturday, June 9, 2012

Friday, June 8, 2012

Thursday, June 7, 2012

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