Every church has children who have a difficult time "connecting" with other children. What can we do to help these children feel like they genuinely belong? Consider the following -
- First of all, be alert. Notice. Pay attention. Watch . . . we can not help a child if we have not been paying attention. Make it a priority to notice if a child tends to be excluded, sits alone, doesn't participate, attends sporadically. Notice. I can not say this enough . . . pay attention and NOTICE!
- If you notice a child who seems to be left out, talk to their parents. Ask if they have any suggestions for how to engage and help their child feel like they belong.
- Find a prayer partner for this child - approach the "senior saints" in your church and get them involved in praying for children who are at risk of feeling unwanted. (By the way, it would be a great idea to have a prayer partner for each child in your ministry regardless of if they have trouble connecting or not.)
- Talk with the child's small group shepherd/teacher and ask for their suggestions - encourage them to make a point to intentionally engage the child - have them visit the home with you to connect with the parents and child outside of class.
- Approach key children in your ministry; challenge them to be watching for other children who may feel "left out" and help them think of ways to include these children.
These are just a few suggestions, but do not do nothing. Commit to pay attention, notice and focus on letting your actions speak!
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