The Kidologist Top Ten of CM

I got an e-mail yesterday with a request from a senior pastor who will soon be speaking to a gathering of children’s pastors from around the country. He asked me: If you were a denominational Christian Education Director who oversaw the children’s ministry for all the  churches in a given state or region: 1. What 10 recent books would you read or tell other directors about? 2. What 10 web-sites would you share with other directors? 3. What 10 experiences, conferences or resources would you tell other directors about? My response, “Sounds like a great blog post!” So here it is: The Kidologist’s Top Ten Books for CM Transforming Children Into Spiritual Champions by George Barna This is a must read for senior pastors as well as children’s pastors. Barna finally supports with research what children’s ministry leaders have known for decades. Rock Solid Kids by Larry Fowler The best biblical case made for church to prioritize ministry to children and to engage parents in the process rather than trying to do it for them. Raising a Modern Day Joseph by Larry Fowler Just released, this follow up to Rock Solid lays out a very doable strategy for the entire…

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A Quiet But Wonderful Thanksgiving!

Big Turkey, Little Turkey This was the quietest Thanksgiving I’ve ever experienced, but I liked it! For the first time ever, neither of us had parents nearby and all our other local relatives had special plans so it was just the three of us. At first we were kinda bummed being used to big noisy family gatherings… but it was a nice change. Yesterday we dug out the Christmas stuff and got the tree up and started the always difficult task of figuring out how to arrange the furniture to accommodate Christmas. We have one of those front rooms where no matter what you do, something ends up awkward. I’d had a long nap so when Sara went to bed I was still full of energy. (Also in part due to some medicine that tends to put my metabolism into overdrive!) So I stayed up super late and got the whole front room all set up and decorated as a surprise for the wife, so she could just enjoy preparing the meal without the hassle of the dysfunctional house! Anyway, all that to say, the day started out wonderful as the little boy got to come down and see the…

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The Dude of Gratitude

Planning for Thanksgiving themed after school club session yesterday, I was reminded of a ToyBox Tale I did in 2004 called “The Dude of Gratitude.” The kids enjoyed it so much I thought I’d remind my readers in case they need something fun for this Thanksgiving holiday. Got some encouraging feedback on over the years: “This is your best yet. I showed this episode to my class this past Sunday and they loved it. It had us all laughing. I especially like the ending when Dude flies off and forgets his baby the 1st time and then the 2nd time and finally remembers to take the baby the last time.” Frank Torres, CA The kids enjoy you, but we youth workers do too! I almost wish we had a Sunday Night Live telecast for the high school and college groups featuring, of course, Toybox Tales. Thanks for allowing God to use you in such a creative and wonderful way. My favorite is the Dude of Grattitude, with take your baby to work day attached–of course. Lynne M. Thompson, Modesto, CA So, enjoy this FLASH BACK: The Dude of Gratitude If you want to download it to show in children’s church,…

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Kid U, Brought To You By…

People often ask how we are able to provide such an excellent conference at such affordable rates. Kidology is known for exceeding expectations because our conference registration fees are always very low considering the quality of the trainers, the exhibitors, meals and performers. Our Sponsors make it possible to provide a top-notch event at an affordable price. Some contribute financially, some donate their services, all deserve our thanks! And we don’t accept just any sponsor – all our sponsors are by invitation because they are the best at what they do. We are very grateful for our Kid U 2008 Sponsors! LEARN MORE ABOUT OUR SPONSORS AND VISIT THEIR WEBSITES! DiscipleLand DiscipleLand’s family of resources forms a comprehensive Children’s Discipleship System™ that helps you equip kids to reach their peak potential as Jesus’ disciples. DiscipleLand partners with parents and teachers to lead children to: Know God intimately.They develop a reservoir of knowledge based on a Biblical worldview. Love Him passionately.They display Christlike character in every area of life. Serve Him selflessly.They demonstrate faithful conduct that honors God and helps people. You can easily customize DiscipleLand Bible curriculum to use anywhere, anytime! Visit the official DiscipleLand website for more information… DiscipleLand.com…

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Karl on Christine Yount’s Podcast

If you follow DiscipleBlog.com, you may have caught my post What Happened To The Bible. It fueled a healthy discussion over on Kidology.org. Then, Christine Yount, editor-in-chief at Children’s Ministry Magazine featured it on her blog. Then, I was honored when Christine asked if she could interview me for her podcast on the subject. You can listen to the podcast here. Christine Yount is a leading voice in children’s ministry and someone you need to keep in your virtual circle of advisors. I’m excited to see her blogging and podcasting now. I’ve been listening to her for as long as I can remember and her longevity in children’s ministry leadership is a true mark of someone who is dedicated to a mission, not to a business or just trying to being heard. When Christine Yount speaks, I listen. (That doesn’t mean I always agree – but it does mean she forces me to think and constantly be evaluating. And I love that!)

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