How do we keep kids connected to the church, and each other, during this season of separation? We simply plan and facilitate relational activities designed specifically for children.
Designate a small group leader to create a private Facebook group and invite parents to join, or create an email chain and invite people to use “reply all.” Just a reminder . . .
Kids like pictures. Pictures are a great way to make connections and get to know each other better.
- Post pictures of their pets.
- Post pictures of smiles; then challenge the kids in the group to guess whose smile is in the post (eyes, hair, nose and baby pictures work, too!).
- Post a picture of something inside or outside of the house that reminds them of God
Kids like to talk and listen to each other.
- Post what they love to eat for breakfast.
- Post a rock scavenger hunt along with a devotional on “The Lord is my rock.”- Psalm 18:2.
- Post what they like best/least about school.
Kids like to laugh together.
- Post something that made them laugh this week.
- Post a joke.
- Post video clips of themselves laughing . . . it’s contagious.
Kids like to do something to help out at church . . . even virtual church.
- Invite them to create a video playing a piano piece.
- Encourage them to help write the prayers for a worship service.
- Ask them to read a scripture lesson for virtual worship.
Kids like parties and mission projects.
- Post something they did to care for the earth this week.
- Issue a “serve one another” challenge and then report back to tell the group what they did to help someone out.
- Post birthdays so everyone can send birthday greetings.
Lastly, use the mail because kids love getting something in the mail.
- Mail care packages to kids that include a craft, snack, Bible verse and a few questions to ponder.
- Mail a note. Enclose an extra note card (& stamp!) so children can reach out to others.
- Recruit adult pen pals and prayer partners to make personal connections with children.
This is important work; I should know. Some of the connections I made at church as a child have lasted my whole life!