The Things You Might Forget

Your Fall ministries are about to begin and along with the things you have in store for the children, you likely have evaluated the curriculum you plan to use and have already trained your volunteers. You may have planned out the special events you want to hold throughout the year . . . or at least have an idea of what you want to do. But, have you planned a specific time for meeting with the parents and grandparents? If we really believe they are supposed to be the primary spiritual teachers of their children, then we need to be sure they are "on board" with the things we are teaching and trying to do in the Children's Ministry. Consider the following -

• Schedule the first week or two of adult Sunday School so parents and grandparents attend a special class where they will be introduced to the curriculum you plan to use. Walk them through the scope and sequence and show them how to get the most out of the student/family take home fliers. Talk with them about how to ask questions focused on getting the children they love to think about, remember, and live the Bible lessons they experience in Sunday School.
• Be sure parents and grandparents know who their children's teachers are - hand out prayer cards with the teachers' photos and ask them to be sure to pray for your volunteers.
• If you are going to involve the children in service projects to "Put Feet to Their Faith", let the parents and grandparents know what you are doing and how they are able to be engaged and help their children with these projects.
• Don't forget your mid-week ministry - plan another Sunday to meet with parents and grandparents to share your vision and goals for the year so they know how to reinforce and build on the lessons being taught.
• Remember to identify those grandparents who bring their grandchildren to your ministry. Do you know who they are? Do you know why they bring their grandchildren and why the parents do not? Do you know if the grandparents have custody of their grandchildren? These things are all vitally important for you to know if your ministry to these children has any hope of being effective. Do not forget to do these vital things.

Make the time to communicate with the parents and grandparents - this is one of the most important things you can do to start your new school year on the right track!