I’m often asked why I call myself the “Kidologist.”
Does it mean I’m a children’s ministry expert?
Nope.
Does it mean I know everything about kids?
Nope.
Does it mean that think I’m the authority
on kids or children’s ministry?
Double Nope.
I started calling myself the Kidologist years ago because when people would comment on how good I was with kids I worried that as I got older I would lose that touch. I was quite aware that young 20-somethings are usually always get kid-connectors, but that many adults as they get into their 30’s, 40’s (or older) seem to lose their knack with connecting with kids, and I feared my saavy for relating and connecting with kids would diminish with time. As I began to analyize WHY I was effective with kids “Kidology” was born, the study of kids, and how to relate to as well as effectively teach kids. (Explained in more detail in CMPodcast #8)
I coined the term “Kidologist” as a reminder to me first of all, that if I wanted to be effective with children for the long haul, I would have to always be a learner. To always be growing, reading magazines & books, studying the culture of kids as well as the latest CM strategies, keeping up on church and ministry trends, attending conferences (not just speaking at them), and doing whatever it took to stay engaged with kids, their culture, and the world of children’s ministry. Failures as well as successes build experience, and then experience may bring expertise – but as the “Kidologist” I am first and foremost a forever learner in the arena of children’s ministry and my appetite to grow and develop must never be satisfied.
What is your nickname?
If don’t have one – what should it be? It’s a good exercise. It can force you to focus on what makes you unique, what your Calling is, what defines you or what you identify with. I know a Kidhelper who’s life has been devoted to helping kids come to Christ. I know a mother named Melissa who’s childhood nickname of “Meepa” (how she said her own name as a toddler) has grown into her adult nickname of MommyMeepa, as she pours her life into being a wonderful mother. I could name others, but I’ll stop there.
Please comment and give me your nickname, or be bold and give yourself a nickname. Whether it “sticks” or not doesn’t matter – what name would identify you?
