| March 4th, 7:45am |
| TITLE |
PRESENTER |
WORKSHOP DESCRIPTION |
| Ten Nuggets for Building or Renovating |
Reagan Hillier |
Planning a new children's building project? Starting a renovation? If so, this informative session will provide you with 10 essential tips you need to know before starting your project in order to see your vision to reality. |
| I Hurt! Help and Healing for Children of Divorce |
Karen Apple |
More than 50% of families in the church are divorced or will divorce. The children need our help as they negotiate the uncharted waters of their capsized boats. Learn to identify the signs of stress, the emotions that hurt, the replacement emotions that help and techniques to assist 1st through 5th graders as they begin to find healing in the arms of their heavenly Father. |
| Making Scripture Sticky |
Tina Houser |
Kids need to have scripture stuck in their hearts and minds. Not just the words, but the meaning and application to their own lives. This workshops provides many ways you can do just that, so the Word will indeed be a lamp to their feet and a light to their path. |
| Developing a Ministry to Newborns and Their Families |
Ann Edwards |
There is no better time to reach a family than when they are expecting a child or have a young baby. This workshop is designed to give ideas for starting a ministry to expectant parents and parents of newborns. |
| Discerning Spiritual Readiness |
Dr. Greg Carlson |
Learning to discern the spiritual readiness of a child, especially as it applies to believing the gospel, makes children's leaders sweat! Take the agony away by grasping five practical skills of shepherding spiritual growth and engaging in laying a foundational readiness for trusting Christ through relationship building. |
| Inspiring World Changers: Home Edition |
Bill Baumgart |
As every parent knows, living under the same roof is not the same thing as connecting. While structured devotions for the family can be daunting to plan and carry out, natural opportunities for discipleship are as close as…your game closet? Explore ways to initiate meaningful dialogue with kids through fun, connective, interactive activities. |
| "I've Been Doing This Less Than 2 Years!" |
Byron Ragains |
This session is for the leader who has been in ministry less than 2 years. Many would call this person a "rookie." We will lay down foundational strategies that will help you whether you are swimming or drowning in the ocean of Children's Ministry. |
| Curriculum Outtakes |
Kurt Goble |
Does this curriculum work for me or do I work for it? It is easy to adopt an unhealthy perspective regarding curriculum; our expectations of it and it's place in our ministry. Kurt will share a simple, new perspective on curriculum and help you make the most of this valuable children's ministry resource. |
| Job One: Raise the Value of CM |
Dr. Roger Theimer |
Children's ministry leaders, your top priority is to help your church see children's ministry as a top priority! This is job one! And if you do this job well, your job gets a whole lot easier. This workshop will inspire you while giving you 10 helpful strategies that are sure to lift children's ministry to a new level. |
| Music Ideas 101 |
Pam Andrews |
In this session, Pam will give you many ideas about summer music camps, music education tools, new curriculum ideas and so much more. You will leave with a notebook full of new ideas and inspiration. |
| Reaching Generation M - Do You Speak Media? |
Johnny Rogers |
Kids spend 6 1/2 hours a day, seven days a week with media: more time than they spend with their parents, or , for that matter, more than you spend at your full-time job. Like it or not, media is the language of today's generation. Discover how media is shaping your kids' world and how you can use it to your advantage to communicate creatively in a language they understand. |
| Raising Spiritual Parents |
Michael Heinz |
It's a fact - Ninety percent of most churched parents don't regularly talk about God with their kids. And, most churches don't know how to help. We'll discuss five roadblocks to family spirituality and what the church can do about it. |
| Trends and Resources to Reach the Latino Kids |
Luz Figueroa |
We will identify key elements in the Latino culture that have applications to both English and Spanish speaking children's leaders. You will receive information and practical tools to help reach this multicultural generation. |
| Teaching Preteens |
Patrick Snow & Eric Epperson |
A practical overview on how to hold the attention of energetic 4th - 6th graders. You will see that it is possible to get God's word into their minds without losing yours in the process. |
| Building a Ministry Team that Goes the Distance, Part 1 |
Deb Moncauskas |
This two-part workshop offers the seasoned children's minister a chance to go deeper into the area of team leadership. You will learn the qualities and attributes of a leader, the stages of team development, considerations for recruiting and building a team and maintaining and nurturin effective teams. |
| Experiencing Freedom in Your Journey and Ministry |
Matt Weston |
Embrace the freedom richly bestowed on all of us as followers of Jesus. Live out this freedom in the context of the demands and challenges of a life of ministry. Be refreshed and celebrate your Father, your life and your calling. |
| Children as Authentic Worshippers |
Kathy Kim |
In the same way we are to be salt in this world, causing people to become thirsty for Christ, children's appetites for the supernatural have to be stirred up, challenged and encouraged. What better way of doing that but teaching them to worship God in Spirit and in Truth. |
| Child-Sized Apologetics |
Dr. Martha Wright |
How can you be sure the Bible is accurate? Can you prove Jesus really came back to life? Your students are being asked such questions. Can they give valid arguments? It's not enough for children to know facts if they can't also defend them. Provide your children with a faith that lasts by helping them discover why they believe what they believe. |
| Where's the Beef? Substance in Children's Ministry |
Michael & Heidi Martin |
As children's ministries become flashier, trendier and more seeker-friendly, one vital ingredient is being increasingly put on the back burner; the Bible. Fun is great, but this workshop discusses the dangers that can arise when trying to make our ministries too "cool," often at the expense of solid Biblical teaching. |
| Casting the Net |
Carol Jones |
Good recruiting involves so much more than a slick advertising campaign. This workshop will teach you to get new volunteers, without begging! And, it will teach you to keep them once you have them. |
| Eye-Openers |
Standard Publishing |
Share your expertise! Session is free but a ticket is required. Stop by the Standard Publishing |
| March 4th, 9:05am |
| TITLE |
PRESENTER |
WORKSHOP DESCRIPTION |
| Safe Kids Ministry |
Blake Caldwell |
Proactive policies, procedures and practices for protecting your children's ministry. Whether you are starting out or sharpening the axe, come learn how to shepherd safely! |
| Recruiting Like Jesus Did |
Jim Wideman |
Jesus is our example for everything in life and ministry. We wear WWJD bracelets but don't always look in the book to see what He did. In this workshop, Jim reveals 30 things Jesus did to find and train those who helped him. If you want to be a master recruiter, this workshop is for you. |
| All New Gadgets and Gizmos |
Dienna Goscha |
Catch kids' attention while teaching great Bible truths using science gizmos and gadgets. Twenty contraptions you can make or buy for under $15 will be presented along with corresponding object lessons. |
| The A - Z's of Teaching Preschoolers |
Lisa Mitchell Hodo |
How can you teach Biblical concepts to little minds? Through stories, music, crafts, games and more. This workshop is an overview of working with the preschool aged child and covers more than 26 ideas on how to effectively run a preschool class hour (or more). |
| Group Building Games |
Dr. Ken Thomas |
Do your children enjoy working together? Are they cooperative with one another? This workshop will provide you with game ideas that can help build trust, confidence and self-esteem in children and will help them function better with one another. |
| Equipping Parents to be Effective Ministers |
Gabe Norris |
Research shows that parents across America long to be effective ministers to their families. Yet, often times hand that responsibility over to the church. Learn how to partner with parents without taking their responsibility, create an awareness and desire for parents to be spiritual leaders for their families and develop a strategy for changing the lives of children while ministering to the entire family. |
| Goosebumps, Chicken Skin, Butterflies and Tingly Sensations |
Tina Houser |
Okay, you're convinced Children's Ministry is a high priority… BUT, how do you start? Take home basic principles and practical steps for getting up and running. |
| 100 Incredible Ideas to Transform Your Children's Ministry |
Sharon Stratmoen |
How many ideas do you need for your next special Sunday? What unique lesson still needs a craft? What will you do for your next children's sermon? Not sure? We'll give you more than 100 ideas to stick in your bag and go! You will learn new games, crafts and devotional ideas. |
| Creative Song Services |
Ronnie Caldwell |
Music is vital to effective children's ministry. Today, children's taste in music is maturing early which demands dynamic song services. We will explore many fun ways to capture the attention of your children's church! You will learn to energize your praise services and lead the children into meaningful worship. |
| Raising Up Josephs |
Larry Fowler |
Frustrated with how our nation's Christian young people are turning out? This Biblical model of someone standing for God will provide direction, inspiration and equipment for the children's leader who is frustrated with lack of coordination with youth ministry, isolation and unresponsive parents. |
| Low Rehearsal-High Impact Drama for Kids |
Debbie Goodwin |
Learn the sequencing techniques that will engage your children in a drama experience and reduce rehearsal time. Explore creative ideas that you can apply to any Bible story to turn it into an interactive drama experience. |
| Media Shout |
Paul Jackson |
Learn how you can effectively use multi-media in your teaching and worship to share life's most important message in a way that helps today's young people understand it better and incorporate it into their lives. Make the media work for you. |
| HIGH FIVE - The Top Five Issues in Reaching Unchurched Children |
Kevin Reynolds |
All of us want to build bigger and better programs but as such growth comes through reaching the unchurched, certain issues arise that must be addressed. We will cover the top five issues of purpose, discipline, economics, world view and relationships. |
| "Tween" - Agers |
Gregg Johnson |
Often misunderstood by parents and peers alike; aggressively targeted by advertising and media, and sadly forsaken by churches our of ignorance. Com and explore the make-up of a tween-ager, the models for effective ministry to this age group, and the means to unleash the potential and power of this newly discovered and untapped age group. Reach this generation before they need to be rescued! |
| Building a Ministry Team that Goes the Distance, Part 2 |
Deb Moncauskas |
This two-part workshop offers the seasoned children's minister a chance to go deeper into the area of team leadership. You will learn the qualities and attributes of a leader, the stages of team development, considerations for recruiting and building a team and maintaining and nurturin effective teams. |
| 6 Essentials for Parenting Seminar Outreach |
Dr. Scott Turansky/Joanne Miller |
Families are hurting today. Our communities are filled with parents and children who live with pain, frustration and discouragement. Parenting seminars can bring hope to discouraged families. Learn how to minister to both the parents and the kids through a Parenting Seminar Outreach. Six practical ideas will be shared to help you get your own program off the ground. |
| Welcoming ALL Children in Jesus Name |
Dana Kennamer Hood, Ph.D. |
Jesus calls us to welcome ALL children in his name. Some children bring challenges in learning and behavior that make it difficult for many Sunday School volunteers to fully answer this call. You will learn practical and easy to implement strategies for including children with disabilities in your ministry. |
| Freshen-up Your Spiritual Life |
Dr. Greg Carlson |
What are the keys to staying fresh in our personal spiritual life when swamped by ministry expectations? Come take a journey with a pastor and professor who is ready to go hard after God with you. We'll look at some spiritual disciplines and ministry practices to enable us to serve our Lord without losing our fervor! |
| Counting More Than Nickels and Noses |
Marlene Lefever |
Ages & Stages of Spiritual Development from birth to age 10 and beyond. Our goal is to grow faith kids, children who have an inner and joyful desire to please Jesus and live for him in everyday situations. You will learn what you should be teaching about faith and morals as the child cognitively develops. |
| The Graphic Gospel |
Keith McManus |
Discover how to use objects and visualize the Gospel in graphic, memorable way that will relate to your kids and cause them to respond in a life-changing way. We will share learning methods and simple building steps to use in preparing your own object lessons, as well as tons of novel ideas you can take home and use immediately. |
| General Societal Trends Impacting Children and Families in 2008 |
Dr. Mary Manz Simon |
Increase children's ministry effectiveness by identifying applications or implications of current societal trends. Trend-tracking has become a popular armchair activity. Yet it's tempting to narrow world-watching to our personal "silo." Developing a broader view of "outside influences," as we will do in this workshop, can maximize children's ministry effectiveness. |
| Developing Incredible Teachers |
John Tietsort |
What does an incredible teacher look like? How do we develop volunteers into truly effective teachers? Steps and resources for making all your volunteers more effective and motivated. |
| March 4th, 10:25am |
| TITLE |
PRESENTER |
WORKSHOP DESCRIPTION |
| Living Out My Children's Ministry Adventure |
Kurt Goble |
Why does Children's Ministry seem like a joyous adventure for some, but not for others? Are there tangible moments that I can use to infuse excitement and momentum? Taught from the perspectives of one how has personally struggled through these issues; this workshop focuses on the idea that "what we do" is not always as important as "who we are." |
| Music & Motions Boys Will Wanna Do! |
Rob & Kathleen Biagi |
Music and Motions make the Gospel message MEMORABLE to children. Trouble is, most motions are too "girly," or too simplistic, or too complicated, or NOT PHYSICAL ENOUGH to inspire boys (or some girls) to do them! You will be moved to see a whole new world of possibilities with music and motions. |
| Kick it up a Notch for Preschoolers |
Karen Apple |
Make your preschool ministry much more than childcare. Fill it with learning activities, creative teaching techniques and music that make God's Word come alive. Children learn 75% of their moral values by the age of 5. Help families make God's Word the basis of those values. |
| Presenting Jesus in the Context of His Times |
Karyn Henley |
Because Jesus transcends time, it's easy to teach His eternal principles, His wisdom, His truth out of context. Without diminishing the universal, eternal value of His teaching, we will look at specific ways to help children see Jesus in His historical context with hands-on activities and fun facts that will enhance their appreciation of who their Savior was and is. |
| Adding "Family" to Your Title |
Kirk Weaver |
Make "family" more than a title! Learn how to support the development of healthy families in your church. Learn how to evaluate your church programs to see if they weaken or strengthen the family. |
| First Year Essentials for Children's Ministers |
Keith Johnson |
Everyone begins only once in ministry to children! Maybe you've been a volunteer who has been tapped to lead and you're wondering where to begin. Or, maybe you're a freshly minted graduate eager to apply what you've learned! Learn critical first-year insights and practical benchmarks to shine as a minister to children. |
| 20 All-New Fresh Ideas for Under $30 |
Ryan Frank |
Do you find yourself running dry and need some fresh ideas for your ministry? Looking for some new ways to build relationships with kids? Get ready for an action-packed workshop as you discover 20 fresh and creative ideas for engaging kids! We'll also be giving away lots of freebies so you won't want to miss it! |
| Asking the Right Questions |
Jim Wideman |
Jim takes a look at harnessing the power of the question. These success secrets come from a self-proclaimed "question junkie." Learn how Jesus used questions, what kind of questions you should be asking on a regular basis as well as Jim's favorite questions. Warning: Don't attend if you are not serious about growing and becoming a better leader. |
| All Aboard!!! 10 Ideas to Get your Leadership on the CM Train |
Dr. Mike Broyles |
Children's ministry is not just a department of a local church but a "core value" of all of the church staff and board. This workshop will help you move your church leaders to see the "vision" and "value" of children's ministry from budget, buildings and staffing. |
| Kids Leading Other Kids In Worship |
Jill Anderson |
We will discuss the effectiveness of kids leading other kids in music and worship, the nuts and bolts of leading worship, forming a team and worship time. You will learn tools for worship leadership and inspiration to mentor kids to lead other kids in worship. |
| Media-Driven CM |
Johnny Rogers |
Are you students begging to come to church? Learn how an interactive, media-driven curriculum can reach all learning styles, engage kids in life application lessons and foster deeper relationships with teachers and peers. |
| Kids' Guide to World Religions |
Jill Harris |
Do your students understand what their friends and schoolmates believe about God? Have they learned the differences between Christianity and other religions? Can they share the Gospel with sensitivity AND accuracy? Learn essential elements for preparing children to learn about people who believe differently, basic beliefs and practices of major world religions and tips for helping kids learn the Gospel and practice sharing it. |
| Motivating Preteens |
Gordon & Becki West |
Learn how to tap into the most common internal and external motivators of preteens and early adolescents. Work with your students to help them become life-long, self-motivated learners and followers of Christ. From the authors of Smart Pages for Preteen Ministry and Dynamic Preteen Ministry. |
| Discover Your Strengths |
Dr. Denise Muir Kjesbo |
This first of a two-part workshop will offer the seasoned children's minister an opportunity to delve deeply into your personal strengths as a leader utilizing a tool from the Gallup Organization. You will learn your five signature themes, how these strengths maximize your leadership and how to maximize your strengths for most effective ministry. |
| Birthday Party Ministry |
Reagan Hillier |
Hosting birthday parties can be the most effective outreach initiative for your church. Found out in this entertaining and interactive session why churches across the country are successfully utilizing this ministry and how you can, too. |
| Special Buddies - A new curriculum for Children with Special Needs |
Carlton McDaniel |
You will be introduced to a new curriculum called "Special Buddies" from LifeWay for children grades 1-6 with special needs. This presentation will include a description of layout and design for the leader/learner books, education and ministry implications, and practical "how to" helps in using this resource in a variety of learning environments. |
| Ministry Stories - Write 'em or Lose 'em! |
Marlene Lefever |
How many times have you said, "I should share what just happened this Sunday. If only I could write"? Well, maybe you can! Bring your laptop or pen and paper, but come prepared to creatively communicate about your ministry in ways your church family will enjoy reading. The focus will be on writing for your church, newsletters and sermon illustrations from children's ministry that you pastor can use. |
| Marvelous Memorization Methods |
Larry Fowler |
Memorization is a spiritual discipline that embeds truths into the minds of children for the long haul - if it is approached correctly! Come laugh, holler, play and work as together we practice a power-packed array of methods that can be implemented into your children's ministry classrooms and into your church families' homes. |
| Moved by the Spirit |
Mary Jane Huber |
Movement and games can be one of the many tools Christian Educators use to help students internalize the faith story. Come experience games with readily available equipment that can be connected to Biblical stories. |
| Top Issues Facing Today's Families |
Dr. Ken Thomas and Gabe Norris |
This research based workshop will examine the top 10 issues facing today's families and the impact they are having on the children and parents in the community. |
| From Pew Potatoes to Hot Potatoes |
Keith McManus |
Every church member has gifts, talents and abilities just waiting to be discovered. Move your church folks from being "Pew Potatoes" to "Hot Potatoes" that are involved in ministry-real, life-changing ministry. Learn to recruit quality people including the "Standards of Excellence" in ministry including an 8 step process to be new recruits trained and plugged in. |
| March 4th, 3:30pm |
| TITLE |
PRESENTER |
WORKSHOP DESCRIPTION |
| What is Scope and Sequence |
Pamela Mers Riedy |
Have you ever wondered why curriculum companies pick particular lessons and why they are put together in sequence that makes sense? Let's be intentional about what we're teaching. This workshop will create a one-year scope and sequence that develops a them from Old Testament through the New Testament and through the new church. |
| The Jesus Principles for Succeeding at Leading Your Volunteers |
Tyrone Roderick Williams |
You can activate or enhance your leadership potential through this workshop. I will take you step-by-step through the leadership principles every effective leader must employ. We will examine the leadership principles of the world's greatest motivator and people organizer: Jesus Christ |
| Supercharging Your CM with a Bible Superhero |
Robert T. Schlipp |
You will learn to use the Bibleman Biblezine to teach God's word, to use Bibleman videos to supplement your children's ministry and how to use Bibleman Live Events to reach your community. |
| Toddlers and YOU |
Daphna Flegal & LeeDell Stickler |
Experience a new Sunday school model of partnering with parents in the toddler classroom. This model encourages both parents and children to grow in faith. Learn how to use scaffolding to teach Bible stories to toddlers with storybooks, movement, music and intentional use of language. |
| Bringing Order to the Classroom |
Judy Jenkins |
Ever feel like the kids are in control instead of you? Do minds wander and mouths run to the point of no return? You will learn workable techniques to reel your students back to your point and provide the atmosphere that allows them to receive the nuggets that Christ has for them. |
| Parents: The Key to Family Ministry |
Dr. Scott Turansky/Joanne Miller |
The link for moving Children's Ministry to Family Ministry involves parents. Learn several approaches to help parents get involved, improve their parenting skills and take on the spiritual care of their families. |
| Getting Started with Children's Worship |
Rob Biagi |
Are you just starting out, or starting over with Children's Worship? Be of good courage! This workshop will encourage, inspire and equip you! You will learn to ROCK THE HOUSE beginning Easter Sunday, how to find leaders or become a better worship leader yourself, find great songs kids will love, plan your worship time and the basic worship ingredients. |
| 25 Memory Verse Ideas |
Lisa Mitchell Hodo |
Tired of finding memory verse papers in the parking lot? Make memorizing Scripture fun and kids will look forward to it. Scripture memory changes kids lives. Learn 25 ways to help children "hide God's Word in their hearts" and apply it to their lives through games, music, visuals and more. |
| Knock, Knock! Who's There? - What's up With Large Group/Small Group |
Mark Smith & Bill Niblette |
Recent trends have shown more and more churches are combining multiple age groups for Bible learning. Our purpose is to look at the wonderfully positive outcomes of large-group learning for kids! We'll show you how to maximize your time, personnel and resources you have so that you ca effectively reach your goal: To communicate Bible truths in a way kids can not only grasp, but can easily apply to their own lives. |
| Multipurpose Drama Ideas |
Debbie Goodwin |
Learn how to engage children in a drama experience for outreach, skill-development, peer-to-peer ministry, team building, teaching and/or worship. Explore different venues for incorporating meaningful drama into your year round children's ministry. |
| The Coolest New Stuff for Your Ministry |
Jim Lovenduski |
Technological advances are happening so rapidly that it's hard to keep up. In this workshop, we will cover the coolest new products, websites, and ideas that could revolutionize your ministry. |
| Weekly Acts of Christian Service |
Pat Douglas & Anna Mitchum |
Actively involve your church's children in weekly acts of Christian service. How to start? What can kids do? Who can the kids help locally? How will this program work? We will provide the foundation to successfully start a missions program for preschool and elementary aged children. |
| Developing Live Performance Skills |
Dave Privett |
This workshop will highlight and demonstrate the necessary skills for effective live performance, including voices, script reading and solo and team puppetry will be shared. This is a great style of puppetry to use with limited space! Dave will also share scripting ideas for this form of puppetry. |
| The Main Event |
Katie Gerber |
More life changing decisions are made during special events than any other time in your ministry calendar. This session will show you how to plan and carryout a powerful preteen event. |
| Leading from your Strengths |
Dr. Denise Muir Kjesbo |
This second of a two-part workshop will offer the seasoned children's minister an opportunity to delve deeply into your personal strengths as a leader utilizing a tool from the Gallup Organization. You will learn your five signature themes, how these strengths maximize your leadership and how to maximize your strengths for most effective ministry. |
| Evangelizing Children with Special Needs |
Pat Verbal |
The church's mandate is to reach every child for the kingdom. We're talking about eternal life and values. God created all children for His purpose. Ask God to provide you a window to see the child as He designed him or her. Don't pray, "God, get me through this hour." Whisper, "What I am about to do counts for eternity." |
| Spiritual Formation: Awesome Ministry to Postmodern Kids |
Dr. Martha Wright |
"Spiritual formation" is a buzz word in today's children's ministry. What is it and how is it achieved? In this workshop you will gain the big picture perspective about the spiritual formation of children. Discover how you can be used by God in the lives of kids by intentional teaching in six key areas. |
| Make 'em Do a Double Take |
Tina Houser |
Make Bible stories exciting, engaging and fun to teach. At least 20 storytelling techniques will be presented that will keep kids in the middle of the story. You will enjoy a very participatory experience and leave with lots of tools. |
| New Strategies for Reaching Kids |
Sylvia Foth |
The world has changed! Today's global kids are different from any generation that has ever lived. They're more educated, more connected, more savvy, more distracted and more challenged than ever before. What does the future of local and global children's outreach need to look like? Com hear statistics, perspectives, ideas and fresh reports from the United States and around the world. |
| Recruiting & Managing Men in Children's Ministry |
Gordon & Becki West |
We know that kids need winsome male role models, but how do we attract and keep vital male leaders in our ministries to children? Learn how to make your ministry a place men will want to serve. |
| Taking Your KIDMO to the Next Level |
Johnny Rogers |
Learn from the creator of KIDMO media-driven resources on how to get the most iimpact for your church's children's ministry. Bring both your questions and ideas to share as Johnny leads this fun, interactive learning experience. |
| March 5th, 9:05am |
| TITLE |
PRESENTER |
WORKSHOP DESCRIPTION |
| Avoiding the Millstone |
Larry Fowler |
What would Jesus have said and done about today's epidemic of child offenses? Probably, just what He said in Matthew 18! While child molestation is the offense most nauseating to us, other forms of child offenses also can have eternal results. Come learn how to address this important issue! |
| How to Pull a Rabbit From a Hat |
Ryan Frank |
It's noon and the pastor is still preaching. No one told you about the baptisms at the end of the service. You're out of things to do but church is still going. Don't you wish you could pull a rabbit from a hat? You'll get a ton of ideas for stretching the clock. These fun and creative ideas come together at the drop of a hat and will be life-saver the next time you need a little more to do. |
| Big, Big God! |
Sharon Stratmoen |
Are you looking for Bible-based activities you can use to help preschoolers experience God in simple and amazing ways? Ever need a lesson at the last minute? Come experience how you can make learning about our big, big God amazing for your preschoolers as you are filled up with simple, surprising and specific ideas and resources. |
| One Dozen Bible Skill Games |
Bill Emeott |
Come and experience one dozen homemade Bible Skill games you can use every Sunday with grade-school children. |
| Family: Primary, Church: Support |
Kirk Weaver |
Learn how to educate, equip and train families to fulfill their role as the primary spiritual teachers with their children. Learn how to begin moving the church from a primary to a supportive role in the spiritual development of children. |
| Behind the Music (The Role of the Worship Leader) |
Yancy Richmond |
You can carry a tune, but can you carry the team? Leadership is required for consistent praise and worship in your children's ministry. In this workshop, Yancy draws from over a decade of experience in music and ministry to show you what it takes to be an effective praise and worship leader. |
| Passing on a Passion for the Word |
John Tietsort |
A great gift we can provide our kids with is a desire to get into the Bible for themselves, developing children who have the skills and the desire to listen to God speak to them through His Word. This workshop will include tools to develop Bible skills and passing of the Passion for the Word, including six goals to fulfill before kids leave our children's ministry. |
| Staying out of Routine Ruts |
Ronnie Caldwell |
Keep the attention of your children week to week. Simple changes in presentation will keep their focus on you and will help the children learn to apply the principles in their everyday lives! This workshop will give you tons of ideas from your opening prayer to the closing prayer. |
| 34 and Younger! |
Marlene Lefever |
Generation X & Y are different. Obviously, they are younger, but differences go much deeper than that. When you know what they expect as volunteers or employees, you can mentor them more effectively, keep them longer and harness their energy. They want to be free to try new things-to be entrepreneurial. And that's just for starters. |
| Problem Solving |
Jim Wideman |
People today must learn how to be problem solvers. No matter if you are a manager or if you work for someone else, you can't wait for others to solve your problems for you. In this practical teaching you'll learn how to: analyze what is causing the problem, determine the right plan of action and keep problems from reoccurring. |
| Lights, Sound, Action! |
Pam Andrews |
Do you have some little actors in your church? Often those children who might be a discipline challenge are simply stars ready to appear. Come join this workshop as you learn to bring theater to life with your children in a worship experience. |
| Technology in CM |
Kurt Goble |
Video projectors, stage lighting, sound systems, computerized presentation tools, background tracks and more. What is the cost? What are my needs? How do I present an effective proposal to my church? Come learn how this Children's Ministry leader transitioned from a no-tech to a low-tech to a high-tech ministry...the victories and the lessons learned. |
| Beyond the Guilt to Gratitude - Teaching Children About Global Poverty and Justice |
Greg Birgy & Special Guest, Dr. Wess Stafford |
Teaching children about global poverty and justice. We will explore practical ways to teach our kids about the lives of children around the world and why it is crucial we do so. We’ll also answer: How do we simplify this very complicated subject for our children? Can we inspire them without just telling them they should feel bad for the poor? Is the command to help the poor evidence of Jesus’ love for the poor or His love for us? |
| Effective Neighborhood Outreach |
Kevin Reynolds |
Every neighborhood has a number of children who are not regularly involved in a children's ministry program. There is a way to reach them effectively and keep them coming back. This workshop teaches the specifics of developing and maintaining a successful weekly outreach to the unchurched neighborhood children. |
| Preteens, Pimples and Puberty |
Judy Latham |
From acne to zaniness and everything in between, ministering to preteens can be a difficult challenge. Discover ways to build meaningful relationships with preteens and how you can reach this rambling generation. |
| Science Camps with Kid Appeal |
Dienna Goscha |
Inventors Camp, Amusement Science Camp, Space Camp, Creation Camp, Forensics Science Camp…the ideas are endless! Kids love inventing, experimenting, and tinkering. Capitalize on this natural tendency by running a specialized science camp that will use science to teach deep spiritual truths. |
| Special Children - Special Love |
Debbie Goodwin |
Explore ways to minister to special needs children and their families without over extending your staff. Learn the difference between empowering and enabling so that you can make an empowering difference. |
| New Treads for Worn-Out Sneakers |
Dr. Charles Redding |
Are you weary? Is the next event approaching with the speed of a downhill locomotive? Does your love for children and your sense of call get lost and stifled by the requirements of supervisors and the expectations of parents? Come, be refreshed and renewed, learn to keep your sanity while doing the work and deal with stress to accomplish your purpose. |
| Teaching Children to Pray |
Karyn Henley |
Our goal is to help children not just know about God, but to know God and have a personal relationship with Him. Prayer is a major component of that relationship. How can we help children learn to pray? From "flash prayers" to longer intimate conversations, this workshop will give you creative ideas to encourage a real prayer life in children. |
| Games That Teach |
Jeremy Echols |
A little game theory, a bunch of game ideas, and most importantly, how to make spiritual applications when leading games with kids. |
| Trends in Media, Technology and Entertainment |
Dr. Mary Manz Simon |
Maximize ministry opportunities by scanning trends that shape today's "digital natives." The online revolution impacts almost every aspect of life, including children's ministry. This workshop will scan today's entertainment and media-saturated cultural landscape and mindscape that affect children's ministry. |
| The Mechanics of the Road Crew |
Keith McManus |
How do you take your older students and get them plugged in and involved in ministry? It's really not as hard as you might think. Most students are wanting, willing and ready to help. You will learn a proven process for recruiting and training students. |
| March 5th, 10:25am |
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PRESENTER |
WORKSHOP DESCRIPTION |
| Developing a Comprehensive Plan for Your CM |
Dr. Charles Redding |
Is you ministry a muddle of miscellaneous programs that fill time slots, but fails to move children progressively along in their spiritual development? You will learn how to evaluate your existing programs for focus and effectiveness, determine your deficits, determine opportunities for supplementing where deficits exist, and establish a personalized plan for where you need to be and how to get there. |
| More Classroom Games for Global Kids |
Sylvia Foth & Jill Harris |
A new load of kid-tested hilarious games that work in your classroom and around the world! Unleash the power of movement, interaction, and humor to connect your kids to God and His global plan for all people. You will be overloaded with new ideas for making Bible truth come alive for your kids! |
| Keep 'em Tuned in: Preschool Classroom Discipline |
Karen Apple |
Discover creative ways to help 3, 4 and 5 year olds develop self-discipline. It's the key to keeping them tuned in and excited about learning God's Word. |
| Teaching Children Discernment |
Michael & Heidi Martin |
Every day, 24/7, children are assaulted with anti-Biblical teaching, imagery and philosophy. So how do we, as children's leaders, equip children to grow up in such a world? By gradually teaching them to discern for themselves from God's Word what they should accept and what they should reject! |
| Putting Families in the Center of Children's Ministry |
Dr. Mike Broyles |
Children's ministry is family ministry. This workshop will focus on practical ways of getting families to be involved with children's ministry. |
| The Legacy Project |
Dr. Brian Haynes |
This workshop presents a simple path of six legacy milestones for spiritual development that will assist you to help parents lead and train their children spiritually. Learn how Children's Pastors can influence Senior Pastors to embrace a discipleship strategy that links church and family in order to best equip the generations. |
| Putting Your Show/Service Together |
Darren Casteel |
Where do I start? Let’s put your show or service together with the end in mind. Darren will show you how to build from the introduction all the way to letting the children go at the end. Video clips and many examples will be shown in class. Get ready to change the way you do what you have done in the past. |
| Top Children's Ministry Resource Picks |
Colleen Oglesby |
What are "they" using? Have you ever wondered where other children's ministry leaders go to get help? This workshop will share the top resource picks of those in the know. Websites, books, music, personal growth and more. |
| Leading Your Ministry Through Change |
Dr. Ken Thomas |
Our culture is changing at an every increasing rate. As our culture changes, our church must adjust its methodologies to meet the needs of the people. We will explore some transferable principles explaining how you can help lead your ministry through change. |
| Enlarging the Abilities of Those You Lead |
Jim Wideman |
it’s a bird… it’s a plane… no it’s a supervolunteer! Over past 30 years of ministry, Jim has turned hundreds of ordinary helpers into extraordinary leaders. in this message, he will show how to transform workers into leaders. |
| Scripture Rep Raps |
Jeff Smith |
Music, movement and MEMORY! Music is the most influential media form in culture today. Learn how to harness the power of music and movement to help your children learn and remember scripture! |
| Teaching With Video - Why, When, How |
Kurt Goble |
Why use video? What are the benefits? What does it take to produce impactful videos? First this workshop will focus on the effective use of self-produced video presentations in Children's Ministry. We will explore the purposes behind creating video. Secondly, we will discuss the practical and technical aspects of video creation including equipment, programs, training and presentation skills. |
| Go Global |
Bill Baumgart |
Learning about other countries and cultures makes our children more globally and missionally minded. Learning about the needs of people less fortunate inspires their compassion. Knowledge alone isn't enough. We will discuss practical ways to expand global awareness, tap into their sense of compassion and ways to make a difference. |
| Quest for Identity for Tweens |
Mary Jane Huber |
Albert Einstein once said, "Learning is experience, everything else is just information." This workshop will highlight some of the positive impact biblically based experiential learning can have on tweens as this age group stuggles to lay claim on their own personal faith and identity. |
| The Revolving Door of Preteen Ministry |
Katie Gerber |
The only constant in life is change and this is certainly true in preteen ministry. This session will lay out the intentional steps you will need to take to ensure your students enter and leave your ministry well. |
| We are Family! |
Kal Gilchrist-Otis |
Churches can provide opportunities to strengthen and encourage families in their churches and community. When family members spend time together it creates a sense of security and good feeling about each other and themselves. This workshop can help you plan and create events that bring children and parents together so that families can reclaim "family time." |
| Practical Pathways to Reach Special Needs Volunteers |
Pat Verbal |
A disability ministry is only as effective as it's volunteers. God will call special people to go the extra mile for His children, but they need inspiring leaders. This workshop is for directors who want to get organized to recruit, train and keep a strong volunteer staff. |
| Get Out of Your Own Way |
Ann Edwards |
What's going on in your head? At times, we are our worst enemy when it comes to accomplishing our call. This workshop will lead you to think about five keys for making the choices that let you engage and triumph over the realities of today's world. |
| Why Just Sit There When You Can Put the Body and Brain in Motion? |
Daphna Flegal & LeeDell Stickler |
The Bible does not have to be dull and boring. With Active Learning, the children become a part of the Bible story and the Bible story becomes part of them. This workshop will teach you how to incorporate active learning in your children's program and give you the opportunity to participate in active learning experiences. |
| Discussing the Problem of Evil with Kids |
Karyn Henley |
Terrorism, natural disasters, school shootings. Our children are daily confronted with the issue that has challenged Christians throughout the centuries: If God is good, all-knowing, and all-powerful, why does He allow the evil and suffering we see all around us? With a non-denominational, non-dogmatic approach, we will explore our choices when discussing this issue with kids. |
| TeamMates: Revolutionary Approach to Staff Training Through Mentoring |
Ed Lutz |
TeamMates is a teacher-mentoring program pairing experienced, often professional educators with new staff "for equipping of the saints" through fostering informal and ongoing relationships. We will discuss the importance of mentoring, recruiting teachers who don't teach, teacher-training materials, and making it happen in your church. |
| Blast Off with Cosmic City |
Byron Ragains |
Universally the easiest, most affordable VBS. Transform your VBS into a thrilling space voyage through Cosmic City, a floating space city unlike anywhere else. Stir your space voyager’s hearts and imaginations as you lead them through the city’s stellar attractions. FIELD-TESTED to make implementation a breeze. It’s VBS made easy from David C. Cook. |
| March 5th, 3:30pm |
| TITLE |
PRESENTER |
WORKSHOP DESCRIPTION |
| 5 Star Training on a 1 Star Budget |
Colleen Oglesby |
You can have a five star impact on your team. Do you want a five star team with a one star budget? This workshop will help you identify what a good training event for your team should look like and give you ideas and resources to use on a one star budget. |
| Transformational Ministry to Kids at Risk |
Sylvia Foth |
Nearly two thirds of the children around the world live in "at risk" situations. How can we minister to kids so lives are not only reached with the Gospel, but changed for a lifetime? Come learn about global and local strategies and resources to minister the transformational love of Christ to children at risk around the world. |
| Make a Joyful Noise! |
Lisa Mitchell Hodo |
Total involvement! That describes how preschoolers worship. They truly can love God with all their heart, soul, mind and strength. All we need to do is show them who to worship (Jesus) and how to worship (with their whole selves). |
| Big City Blitz |
Keith McManus |
This workshop is designed for those interested in Sonshine Avenue's Wednesday Night Discipleship Program, known as Big City Blitz. We will be walking through the entire program form start up and design to curriculum and implementation. |
| Be a Hero! Teach Parents to Lead Family Devotions that Work |
Tim Shoemaker |
As kids get older, parents often struggle with or avoid family devotions. You can help parents change that-- and we'll show you how with fun and easy demos and "how to" tips. We'll equip you to teach parents the secrets to practical and powerful devotions. |
| I've Heard About it: How do I Get Started with the Workshop Rotation Model? |
Pamela Mers Riedy |
Perhaps you've been intrigued by the Workshop Rotation Model but haven't had a clue on how to get started. Learn from a decade of experience on how to generate the enthusiasm in the congregation based on the offering of talents. Learn which tasks can and should be delegated. |
| Beakers, Bubbles and the Bible |
Tina Houser |
How did that work? Do that again! Cool! These are all comments your kids will have when they experience science experiments with a twist. Learn how to teach Biblical truth using science experiments that will fascinate your kids. |
| Age to Age is Not the Same |
Yancy Richmond |
"Same song, second verse, a little bit louder, and a whole lot worse." If that describes the progression of your children's ministry worship, this workshop is for you. Having led worship for every age group, Yancy shares praise and worship wisdom from firsthand experience. |
| Bible Improv |
Mary Jane Huber |
Experience several fun improv games and see how they can actively be connected to a wide variety of Bible stories. Improv allows the ancient story to become our story as we put our words and actions in the place of the ancient ones. |
| Media Lightning Round: 20 Resources for Your Ministry |
Nevan Hooker |
We'll be flying through resources, games, computer programs, technical stuff, video junk, worship stuff and more. We will cover anything related to media and technology for your kidz' ministry. |
| Medianistry: Using Video Projection to Create Environment and Share the Word |
Dave Privett |
Video projection opens up an entire new world of possibilities for the children's performer. Dave will demonstrate a number of examples of virtual puppets, props and scenery ranging from the simple to the sublime. The exciting new area of multimedia performance DVD's for puppet and drama teams will be highlighted. |
| KidZ KaN! Make A Difference in the World |
Gordon & Becki West |
This workshop provides practical ideas for giving elementary-aged children hands-on service and outreach projects. From the creators of KidZKaN.org and KidZ At Heart International. KidZ KaN! make a difference by praying, giving and getting involved. |
| Putting Excellence Into Your Ministry |
Ryan Frank |
You will never be a success in your ministry until you make a commitment to excellence. It's been said that the enemy of great is good. It's easy to have a good ministry but few learn to turn that good into great. You will learn to develop the right attitude about your work, get the most out of your minutes, do first what you do best, prioritize goals and turn an average ministry into remarkable! |
| Spiritual Warfare |
Lena Wood |
No mumbo jumbo. This fun, fearless session will help you arm your kids against the dark side, using the armor of God and the Sword of the Lord; ideas for worship, witnessing, children's sermons, prayer, devos, boot camp and outings. |
| Counseling Children With Confidence |
Dr. Martha Wright |
How do you feel about counseling a child for salvation? If you've never led a child to Christ before, if you're feeling insecure or if you just want to enhance your skills in counseling a child for salvation, this workshop is for you. You will learn basic principles, how to use thought-provoking questions, how to give a child assurance and how to handle challenging situations. |
| Successful Children's Church |
Brent Randall |
Are your kids finding children's church boring? Learn proven techniques to create vibrant, exciting and successful children's church services. |
| Telling the Old, Old Story in a New, New Way |
Jeff Smith |
Applications of the creative process to bringing Bible stories and Bible characters to today's culturally-savvy children. You will learn how to identify cultural icons with mass appeal, the power of interaction and involvement in the process of discovery, creative ways to visualize Bible stories and the value of being entertaining without compromise. |
| Team Building: Take Me Out to the Ballgame |
Kal Gilchrist-Otis |
Ministry can be like a baseball game. We’re on the same team but we’re not all the same. That’s why we’ve got to learn to play together. In this workshop, you will experience team games to help build unity among your team members. Be inspired. Be encouraged. And coach, don’t give up! |
| March 6th, 7:45am |
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PRESENTER |
WORKSHOP DESCRIPTION |
| 25 Tips for Teaching Babies and Ones |
Ann Edwards |
Babies learn so much in the first year of life. We have an obligation to teach children about God. Believe it or not, we help set a child's feeling about being at church, which in turn sets the child's attitude and which lays concepts for a faith foundation later in life. By making valuable connections now, we lay an important foundation for their future. |
| Families Matter: Creating a Family Friendly Church |
Ruth Pape |
Nurturing the faith of children needs to be Family based and Church supported. Explore the key elements to equip your families to take Bible learning beyond the church walls and into their homes throughout the week. Receive practical ideas to minister to and equip parents in the spiritual formation of their children. Learn techniques to turn faith into 24/7 life transformation rather than a one-hour drop-off at church. |
| Get Out of the Boat |
Jeff Smith |
An outside the boatload look at ways to be more creative in our approach to teaching and sharing God's Word with children. Bring your faith and learn how to walk on water. You will learn a biblical perspective of the creative process, friends and foes of creative process and how to apply creativity to teaching the Bible. |
| Leadership Qualities in CM |
Dr. Ken Thomas |
Do you desire to lead your children's ministry with excellence? Do you ever wonder what leadership competencies you need to lead your staff and volunteers? We will discuss what children's ministry leaders from across the country believe to be important to lead. |
| Life-Transforming Children's Worship |
Kathy Kim |
Kids are wired differently and that is all right. We just need to understand the way they think and operate to bring out the thirst and hunger for God. We want them to experience the supernatural power of God and seek him 24/7. |
| Intergenerational Ministry |
Marlene Lefever |
Lots of ideas on mixing elementary kids and tweens with the teens and adults of your church! Events take place in home groups or at the church. Each is designed to give children and adults stronger ties within the church family. The long-term spiritual goal is to provide models, mentors and prayer partners for the children with the hope that relationships will last through the easy and difficult years. |
| Marriage and Ministry |
Gabe Norris |
Thriving in ministry often times results in marriages that hang on for dear life. Likewise, thriving in marriage seems to leave little left to tend to potential ministries. Is it even possible for both to flourish simultaneously? Considering both marriage and ministry from God's perspective births within each of us the desire to see each enhance the other. |
| Cultural Diversity - Blessing or Curse? |
Mary Padgett & Marty Montague |
International adoptions, immigration and the diversity of urban areas are changing the face of children's ministry in the church today. Traditional programming is not enough to help integrate children and their families into the life of the church. Children's ministry leaders need to be aware of ways they can respond to the international children in a way that communicates love, acceptance and respect for their culture. |
| Tears Through Perfect Make-Up: A Call to Honesty for Women in Ministry |
Sheila Walsh |
Too often in ministry we fall into the trap of thinking that we have to appear to be perfect to be used by God. In her own life, Sheila has discovered that God's light can shine most brightly through our broken places. She will look at what it means to share our very lives with those we have been called to serve. |