Blog | Fun and Effective Children’s Ministry Volunteer Training
Fun and Effective Children’s Ministry Volunteer Training
Every children’s pastor wants to see their volunteers feel confident, equipped, and excited about serving
in kids’ ministry. A well-planned training seminar can make all the difference by providing practical tools,
fostering relationships, and infusing fresh energy into your team. Below are seven tips to help you
create a memorable and impactful volunteer training event.
1. Start with Vision and Purpose
Begin by casting a clear vision for your children’s ministry. Explain the “why” behind what you do—
instilling a sense of purpose helps volunteers understand their vital role in shaping young lives. When
they see the eternal impact of their service, they’re more motivated and committed.
2. Keep It Interactive
No one wants to sit through a long lecture. Incorporate hands-on activities, group discussions, and
games to keep volunteers engaged. For example, you could facilitate a “Kid’s Eye View” activity where
volunteers step into a child’s shoes—this might mean completing a simple craft, playing a familiar
children’s game, or role-playing different classroom scenarios.
3. Mix Practical Training with Fun
Aim to equip volunteers with practical skills in a way that’s enjoyable. Show them how to manage
behavior effectively, explain lesson plans, or use storytelling techniques. Then, add a fun twist—try
“Jeopardy”-style quizzes to review critical safety procedures or ministry policies. Gamifying your session
fosters teamwork and makes learning stick.
4. Empower Volunteers with Tools and Resources
One of the best ways to set your volunteers up for success is to provide clear, easy-to-use resources. If
your church uses a specific curriculum, demonstrate how to navigate it effectively. Offer quick reference
guides or checklists for classroom prep, cleanup, and emergency procedures. A binder or digital folder
that includes lesson outlines, contact info, and FAQ sheets is incredibly helpful for newcomers.
5. Demonstrate Effective Classroom Management
Most challenges in children’s ministry revolve around classroom management. Use role-play
demonstrations to show volunteers how to handle various situations—like a disruptive child, a shy child,
or a first-time visitor. Talk through positive reinforcement strategies and the importance of clear,
consistent expectations. Seeing these scenarios acted out in real time helps volunteers learn how to
respond calmly and confidently.
6. Cultivate a Team Spirit
Your volunteers are more likely to stick around when they feel like they’re part of a supportive
community. Encourage them to connect with each other through icebreakers, group activities, or
sharing personal stories of ministry wins and challenges. This fellowship builds camaraderie, making
everyone feel invested in the ministry and each other’s success.
7. Wrap Up with Encouragement and Prayer
Conclude your training by speaking encouragement over each volunteer. Thank them for their
willingness to invest in the next generation and celebrate the unique gifts they bring to the team. End
with a group prayer—inviting God’s guidance, unity, and protection over your children’s ministry. This
faith-filled finale reminds volunteers that their commitment is part of a bigger kingdom purpose.
Effective volunteer training doesn’t have to be dull. By mixing vision, practical tips, and fun, you’ll create
an environment where your children’s ministry team feels equipped, connected, and excited to serve.
When volunteers walk away inspired and confident, it translates into a vibrant, life-giving experience for
the kids—and that’s what children’s ministry is all about!
About the Author
Josh Tarp is a multi-instrumentalist, singer-songwriter, and worship leader from Minneapolis with over 15 years of experience in church & worship leadership. Josh serves as the Director of Marketing at Motion Worship, helping to write various blog posts, managing social media, designing graphics, and handling customer service.