A few years ago I was talking with a new student at Carey who was looking for new ways to reach children in church. In particular he was concerned that his own boys were getting bored and not wanting to go to Kids Church. Rather than sit and criticise from the sidelines he offered to help. Not seeing himself as a teacher he decided he'd like to run some fun games with the children. His Pastor's response was that "we don't have time to play games" or at least words to that effect.
Is that true - do we not have time for fun and games in Children's Ministry? Are games part of reaching children for Christ? Can we use games to teach? Or is that for the rest of the week?
In my church I am pleased to say that games are part of Kids Church. Sometimes to teach, sometimes to reinforce the message, sometimes just to have fun and sometimes to allow the kids to let off steam and so be more receptive when we ask them to sit still.
Games are an important part of any Children's Ministry programme. Children need times when they are active and able to run around - not to mention all the life skills that they can learn at the same time.
So next time you plan your programme make room for games. Your children will thank you and you too will have fun.
Having fun through games
Pastor Pete
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