I first experienced being thrust into the limelight when I was eight years old. I was visiting the Salvation Army, where my best friend and my grandparents attended. It happened to be a special service, and the Sunday School were putting on a play. My best friend’s little brother was meant to be in it, but he had come down with a terrible case of stage fright. He wasn’t afraid of the audience—he was terrified of the kid dressed as the wolf!

My best friend’s mother hurried over and pleaded with me to take his place. Fortunately, costumes weren’t an issue; he was wearing his character’s name on a placard around his neck. They simply lifted it off him, slipped it over my head, and voilà—I was now the character destined to be chased around the stage by the wolf.

Moments later, I found myself standing under the lights, knowing nothing except the few frantic instructions I’d been given. But somehow, it all went off without a hitch. That childhood moment of unexpected improvisation set the tone for the rest of my life. From then on, I was ready for anything when it came to performing—and there have been plenty of opportunities to prove it since.

Children’s Ministry has a way of keeping us on our toes. Just when we think we’ve planned for every possibility, a child, a costume, a prop, or a moment of stage fright reminds us that ministry is wonderfully unpredictable.

What This Teaches Us About Children’s Ministry

1. Flexibility is a ministry superpower

Children don’t always follow the script—literally or figuratively. Volunteers who can adapt quickly create safe, joyful spaces where kids feel supported even when things wobble.

2. Kids need adults who stay calm when things go sideways

My friend’s brother wasn’t naughty; he was overwhelmed. In our ministries, children often need reassurance more than correction. A calm adult can turn a meltdown into a moment of growth.

3. Improvisation builds confidence

That impromptu performance taught me to trust the moment. When we model confidence and creativity, children learn to try new things—even when they feel unsure.

4. Every child has a different threshold for courage

Some kids will leap onto the stage. Others will freeze at the sight of a “wolf.” Understanding these differences helps us tailor our support so every child feels seen and valued.

5. God uses the unexpected to shape us

I didn’t know it then, but that moment prepared me for a lifetime of drama, storytelling, and ministry. God often uses small, surprising experiences to equip us for future calling.

Encouragement for Today’s Leaders

If you’ve ever had to step into a role at the last minute, rewrite a game on the fly, or comfort a child who suddenly can’t face the crowd, you’re in good company. Ministry isn’t about perfection—it’s about presence.

Children remember how we made them feel far more than how polished our program looked. When we respond with grace, humour, and flexibility, we model the heart of Jesus in real time.

So next time a child refuses to go on stage, a prop breaks, or your “wolf” looks a little too realistic, take a breath. Smile. Step in if needed. You might be creating a moment that shapes someone’s future.

Free Plays to Download!

Circus: The Devil Roams Like a Roaring Lion

Join the Lion Tamer and Bubbles the Clown in this Circus adventure to explain 1 Peter 5:8&9 to the children.

Download here: https://cooeekidsministry.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/Circus.pdf

The Proud Tin Soldier: The sin of pride. The Tin Soldier think he knows better than his owner!

Download here: https://cooeekidsministry.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/Play-The-Proud-Tin-Soldier-1.pdf