Preparing Kids’ Ministry for Easter Sunday

Easter is often associated with colorful eggs, Easter bunnies, and baskets filled with treats. However, it is essential to impart the true significance of Easter and to create a meaningful experience for children and families who will attend your church Easter Sunday. I can’t think of a more important day in the life of the local church than the celebration of Easter. Many families come on Easter that may not come on a regular basis. Welcoming first-time guest and those who do not attend often is a wonderful opportunity to make a positive impression and show them the warmth and love of Jesus through your church community. Here are some ways to prepare for their arrival:

• Pray: The most important step is to pray. Pray for your church as you prepare for this day. Pray for the children and families that they would feel welcomed and loved. Pray for the hearts of the children that they will come ready to learn and be open to what God wants to teach them.
• Friendly Greeters: Have friendly and welcoming greeters stationed at the entrance of your kids’ ministry area. These greeters can provide information about the ministry, answer any questions parents might have, and help newcomers feel at ease. Train your volunteers to greet first-time guests with warmth and enthusiasm. Encourage them to introduce themselves, ask the children’s names, and express gratitude for their visit. Greeters can then explain the check-in and security procedures for your church.
• Clear Signage: Make sure your kids’ ministry area is clearly marked with signs directing parents and children to the appropriate rooms or areas. Clear signage helps first-time guests feel confident and comfortable navigating the space.
• Informational Brochures: Create informational brochures or welcome packets that provide an overview of your kids’ ministry, including the schedule, safety policies, and contact information of ministry leaders. Also include programs that you offer for children during the week and special events.
• Special Welcome Gifts: Consider offering special welcome gifts or treats for first-time guests and their families. This could be something simple like a sticker, a small toy, or a snack bag with treats.
• Tour of Facilities: Have volunteers available to give tours of the kids’ ministry area. This helps visitors feel more comfortable and familiar with the space.
• Buddy System: Implement a buddy system where experienced members of your kids’ ministry are paired with first-time guest to help them feel welcome and assist them throughout the morning. This is a great way for kids to serve!
• Prepare the Lesson: Bible Studies for Life: Kids provides resources to help teachers prepare effectively. Encourage teachers to spend time listening to the audio training podcast and reflecting on the Leader Bible Study in the Leader Guide. Gather supplies and pack items from the Leader Pack and have those ready before children arrive. A prepared area welcomes children into a space that is inviting and conducive to learning.
• Meaningful Activities: Engage children in activities that help them connect with the Easter story on a deeper level. Depending on their age and comprehension level, you can tailor your explanation to suit their understanding. Use age-appropriate language to make the story engaging and understandable for children. We provide great resources with the Bible Studies for Life curriculum that is age-appropriate to fit the age that you teach.
• Follow-Up Communication: Collect contact information from guests so you can follow up with them after Easter Sunday. Send them a thank-you email or letter, invite them to future events or services, and let them know how much you appreciated their visit.
• Feedback Mechanism: Encourage guests to provide feedback about their experience. This could be done through a feedback card, online survey, or in-person conversation. Use this feedback to continually improve and enhance your kids’ ministry.

The Easter season is one of the most important seasons in a church. This is a great opportunity to share with children and families about Jesus’ death, burial, and resurrection as we celebrate that Jesus is alive! By incorporating these ideas, you can create a meaningful Easter experience for the children and families.