Continuing our look at the characteristics of children Under 8 and how you can minister to them more effectively.

Under 8’s like to think about things

Be prepared to answer lots of questions.  Who, what, when, where and why?  Their world is really opening up.  They’re understanding cause and effect and their memories are improving.  The average 8 year old is learning twenty words a day!  They really like jokes and make up their own (with varying degrees of success). Show them being a Christian is FUN!

• Use small group time so they can talk.
• Make Memory Verses a challenge.
• Use humour wherever you can.
• Invite guests to share their experiences.
• Explain what a Testimony is and add a Testimony Time to your program.
• Bible word search and crossword puzzle sheets are fun and satisfying to complete.

Under 8’s feel a lot

When you’re leading and ministering from the front remember Under 8’s can be easily embarrassed.  They’re sensitive and feel empathy for others.  They’re more aware of world events and can experience anxiety.  Other things that concern them is failure, criticism, tests, getting hurt physically and fear of new or unfamiliar situations.  Their self-esteem can be effected in Primary School.

• Teach lessons about identity: ‘Who you are in Jesus’.
• Reassure kid’s that God has a plan for their life.
• Be sensitive about who you put on the spot for answers or to participate.
• Teach about Prayer, its importance, and how it helps every day.
• Explore scriptures like Psalm 91.
• Make Bible stories relevant to their lives by using life application stories.

Under 8’s like to move

Under 8’s are developing more complex moving skills like running in a zig-zag, jumping down steps and cartwheels.  They can catch smaller balls.  They enjoy rough and tumble play.  Fine motor skills are well developed now.  Many love to dance, perform and sing.

• Always have a game ready.
• Program for a Super Sunday that focuses on outdoor play.
• Organise a Church picnic for families and have old fashioned games like egg and spoon race, sack race and tug-o-war.
• Obstacle courses are fun and challenging and can be used as a game or in a Memory Verse challenge.
• Incorporate a craft time.
• Begin your program with Praise and Worship (even if you’ve already been in with Church)
• Use You Tube videos to learn dance moves that accompany songs.
• Perform a song or a play in Big Church.

 

Is it any wonder there’s an Under 8’s week in honour of this amazing time in children’s lives?  Under 8’s should be celebrated!  As a Kid’s Ministry leader or volunteer, you are in the wonderful position of being able to help Under 8’s experience God and to discover Jesus!