Do As I Say, Not As I Do

Kidology Theorem #26 Several years ago I was serving at a major children’s ministry conference, and as a speaker/exhibitor, I had the opportunity to give out some drawing slips for some really cool prizes the conference was giving away to its attendees. We could give them out any way we wanted, but were encouraged to make it fun. Oh, the things kids pastors would do to get these drawing slips! One fellow came back to our booth seeking another drawing slip and since he had already played our silly game, I decided to go easy on him. He was wearing a t-shirt with a Bible verse on it, so I said, “Close your eyes and tell me the verse on your shirt.” He admitted he had just bought the shirt so he didn’t know the verse. Fair enough, so trying to keep it easy I said, “That’s fine, just quote me John 3:16.” I could tell by the look on his face he had no idea what I was talking about. My intention wasn’t to embarrass him, so I hinted, “For God so loved the world…” His awkward blank expression continued. Now I felt bad, so trying to help him save face I said, “No worries, just…

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Introducing Kidology Theorems

Before the website, Kidology started with the launch of my first book, The Kidology Handbook – then came the Kidology University Conference (we did 15 in 3 states!), and then the website in 1994. It all began with the Study of Kidology – studying how kids think, relate, communicate and learn – and their world! For over 25 years Kidology has grown, the Handbook has been updated, the website has grown, new resources and curriculum have been added, but the study of kids has never stopped! For 2022 I’m returning to that initial focus with a weekly THEOREM on the Study of Kids! Our new Thursday newsletter will focus on just ONE of the Kidology Theorems. If you didn’t get it today, be sure you are subscribed at Kidology.org/newsletter – or check them out in the Kidology Theorem Zone. May the learning continue on how to Reach and Teach kids for Jesus! I launched this week with Kidology Theorem #40: Check it out at: Kidology.org/theorem40

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Kids Church Rules and Rewards

I like to keep rules light-hearted and fun, but effective. So for my outdoor themed children’s church, The Outpost, I use Trail Tips and every service a “Super Adventurer” is chosen and awarded who best follows these tips. Here is what the Tips and Certificate look like. The Tips: The Certificate: Over on Kidology, All Access members get full sized samples they can use to modify to fit their ministry as well as ones with Karl’s logos and name removed. Check it out at Kidology.org/trailtips

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100 Ways to Show Your Kids LOVE!

Here are 100 EASY (and FUN) ways to show your kids you LOVE them!   1. Say “I love you” often. 2. Say “I like you” as well. (Like is optional!) 3. Pay attention to them when they are talking to you. 4. Sit with them and read stories together. 5. Ask what the best part of their day has been. 6. Sing worship songs with them. 7. Play along with them, whether it is blocks, coloring or video games. 8. Read a Bible Story together. 9. Tell them that you love them no matter what. 10. If you are wrong, say you are sorry. 11. Play in the rain and splash in the puddles together. 12. Never compare them to other children. Assure them that they are the best “them” there is and ever will be. 13. Make paper airplanes together. Have fun measuring distance and time flight duration! 14. Wrestle and roll on the floor with them. 15. Laugh and giggle about silly things with them. 16. Each time you greet your child, touch them. It communicates warmth and love. 17. Tell your child each day that you are so thankful to have them. 18. Go into detail…

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Dealing with Problem People

For Kidmin Talk #157, I decided to share one on my Coaching Zoom calls since the topic is one that is so important to ministry leaders. The primary reason fail in ministry has nothing to do with skills or performance, it is because people can’t get along with others. Learn the secrets of getting along with others, especially difficult people! Links and show notes available at Kidology.org/kidmintalk157

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