‘Delilah cut Samson’s hair,’ a seven-year-old told me during craft time.

‘It was a Philistine who cut his hair,’ I said.

‘No, it was Delilah,’ she declared with certainty. 

‘Well, let’s take a look at what the Bible says.’

I found my Bible and looked up Judges 16:19.

            ‘And she made him sleep on her knees, and called for a man and

            had him shave off the seven locks of his head.  Then she began

            to humble him, and his strength left him.’ (NASB)

The seven-year-old was astonished. 

‘Always check the Bible,’ I said.  ‘You can’t rely on cartoons, pictures, or paintings to get it right.  But you know you’ll always find the truth in the Bible.’

That was a teachable moment!  By the look on her face, I don’t think the seven-year-old will ever forget the importance of checking the Bible for facts.  And I won’t forget how grateful I was to the Lord that I had re-read the Book of Judges during my devotional time and was certain I knew what I was talking about!

A teachable moment is an informal opportunity when learning a particular topic or idea becomes possible or easiest because the learner is receptive.  It’s a fleeting, very short period of time that you can grab and use.  Sometimes it comes in the form of a question.  Sometimes from a need for clarification or, as in this case, to address a misconception.  You can’t plan a teachable moment because they’re spontaneous, but you can provide room in your Kid’s Ministry program that allows opportunities for them to arise.

1. Craft Time

I love including a craft time in Kid’s Church.  Not because I’m good at it!  I’ve noticed children will talk with volunteers and each other about all kinds of things while they are making things.  Craft time can provide the perfect opportunity for teachable moments to occur.

2. Activity or Colouring Sheets

Experts say that colouring calms the brain and helps the body relax.  That’s why colouring books are now so popular with adults.  Most children love it and again, as they colour they open up about things.    

3. Morning Tea Time

It’s the same thing at Morning Tea.  Sitting around a table or gathered on a picnic rug, children like to chat.  It’s also an opportunity for them to ask you questions they may be hesitant to ask during the lesson because they’re self-conscious. 

If you create the space for teachable moments to occur, be ready for them!  Stop what you are doing and engage with the children.  If it leads to a question you don’t know the answer to, it’s okay to look up the answer together or to ask your Leader or Pastor if they know.  Either way, you’re showing yourself to be trustworthy and caring.  Teachable moments will become second nature to you, allowing room for the Holy Spirit to move, and ensuring the children in your Kid’s Ministry are growing in God.