Creating a vibrant and functional children’s ministry space, while communicating your church’s vision and DNA through it, is no small task. Use these four tips to help you as you start to envision your new design.
1. Keep it RelevantWhen designing your children’s area, you want something that’s going to last longer than the last popular cartoon character. Keep it fresh for years to come with themes that are timeless and captivating to any child, such as nature or local landmarks. Or consider using materials that allow for changes in your displays with each new season or round of VBS.
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2. Align with Your Church’s DNA
For a children’s ministry to be effective, the church as a whole needs to be in sync. First comes understanding your church and the DNA that makes you who you are. Then it’s time to carry out that unique mission in your children’s ministry, maybe even incorporating it into your theming.
3. Pay Attention to Detail
It’s all in the little things. Explore new materials, such as acrylic panels that act as display cases, carpeting that comes to life as part of the theme, or surfaces that children can touch and interact with. And never underestimate lighting. By adjusting its position, type, or even color, something as simple as lighting can change the entire atmosphere of the room.
4. Be Flexible
Creating a children’s space is a process. It’s not like a canned food you pull off the shelf; it takes time and collaboration to come together. Being open to ideas you hadn’t thought of and willing to shift your point of view will go a long way toward building cohesiveness in your church and creating something special.
Understanding who you need to partner with to design a powerful children’s space is the first step. And make sure not to skimp on the visioning end. Having someone help you define and communicate your church’s vision and DNA through your children’s space will ensure that you get more than a flashy theme.