Engaging kids Archive

Should I Make My Kids Apologize?

“Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.” (Colossians 3:13) In this brief article, Dr. Scott Turansky, co-founder of the National Center for Biblical Parenting, provides insight into the meaning of true reconciliation. “I’m Sorry” May Miss the Mark Reconciliation often requires that an offender comes back to try to make things right. …

Preschool Pointers: Your Children, Classroom, and Expectations

Managing all the variables in preschool ministry can be challenging. To anticipate and resolve most issues, focus on these three items: know your children, foster an inviting environment, and establish clear expectations.   Your Children God made each child in your class uniquely for His glory. Therefore, expect variety rather than uniformity. Every teacher’s timeless challenge is to discover how to bring out the best …

3 Ways Parents Help Their Child Succeed TODAY!

In this helpful article, Greg Baird outlines three practical ways to help children be successful in everyday life. As parents, one of our overriding desires is to see our children be successful. Maybe it’s for a small child to be successful in learning new behaviors. Or it might be that we want them to be successful in school. Maybe it’s in a sport they play, …

Kindergarten Know-How: Knowing Your Children

The best way to show God’s love is by getting to know your children individually. While every child is unique, the information below provides a framework for understanding the development of five- and six-year-olds. Kindergartners Can… Assemble complex puzzles (of 24 pieces or fewer) Write some numbers Write some letters Read a few simple words Follow simple directions Retell stories in their own words Dramatize …

Empower Elementary—Teaching Kids about Patience

Whoever is patient has great understanding, but one who is quick-tempered displays folly. (Proverbs 14:29) Our culture certainly doesn’t promote patience. People are accustomed to drive-through banking, fast food, instant oatmeal, and on-demand entertainment. Making someone else wait is considered poor customer service or rude behavior. Because our fast-paced world expects instant results, patience is often in short supply! When personal challenges drag on and …

Kindergarten Know-How: Fostering Friendships

“I love coming to church, ‘cause I get to see my friends!” Trevor announced to his mom as they entered the children’s area. As Trevor walked into his kindergarten classroom, he immediately greeted Caleb and Mei. They invited Trevor to help build a tall block tower; then he regaled his friends with a new joke. At ages 5 and 6, children typically love to make …

Preschool Pointers: 7 “Attention Getters” for Little Ones

Going Hoarse? During my first summer as a camp counselor, I lost my voice almost every week. Each game, devotional, and worship time seemed to require loud yelling to control the kids. I stumbled through my weekly responsibilities with hoarse, cracking speech. And the joy of the job was fading! Thank heaven for Steve, then. As our camp leader, Steve had mastered the art of holding …