Supporting Kids with Special Needs in Your Children’s Ministry

Every week in our children’s ministry, we are entrusted with the incredible privilege of loving and leading God’s precious children. Each one is uniquely created by God, and every child matters. Jesus made that clear when He said, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these” (Matthew 19:14). At The Outpost, our goal is for every child to feel safe, loved, and welcomed — and that includes those who may need a little extra care and support due to special needs or behavior challenges. But as any leader knows, inclusion also comes with complexity. Sometimes the needs of one child can unintentionally disrupt the experience for others. That’s why I created a short, practical guide for my volunteers to help them navigate these situations with wisdom, patience, and compassion. The goal is to empower leaders to care for children with special needs while still maintaining an engaging environment for the entire group. It also reinforces important safety guidelines to protect both the child and the adult in every scenario. This guide includes helpful tips on how to handle disruptions, utilize sensory tools, and provide redirection in…