for Raising Christian Kids
In this episode, the guys discuss what theology is, why it matters, and how to teach it to kids in faithful, age-appropriate ways.
In this episode replay, the guys discuss the doctrine of Christ and Santa’s role in the Narnia books, along with a supposed knockout punch he delivered at the Council of Nicea.
Description: In this episode, Hunter and Ryan answer a follow up question from last week's episode about simplifying ministry.
Description: In this episode, the guys discuss how to simplify 4 key areas of ministry.
Description: In this episode, Hunter and Sam discuss the importance of the advent season and recommend a variety of resources for you and the families at your church.
Description: In this episode, Hunter and Ryan talk with Jean Paul Molyneux about his exerience with activating families in his church for discipleship. Jean Paul oversees all aspects of Family Ministry and missions at Ocean View Church in San Pedro,...
Description: In this episode, the guys discuss how a ministry's view of Scripture impacts its direction and confidence.
Description: In this episode, the guys give practical steps to implementing catechisms into various avenues of ministry.
Description: In this episode, Sam and Hunter help listeners rethink their approach to teaching the Bible and provide three steps for improving biblical competency in kids.
"How do I effectively recruit and develop volunteers?" Many children's ministry leaders struggle with this question. In this popular episode, the guys walk through a helpful framework to help you LAND and keep volunteers.
Description: In this episode, Hunter and Sam talk with Nick Judd about the grading scale he created for his children's ministry called the "4 Stages of Next Gen Discipleship." Nick is the Next Gen Pastor at the Journey Church in Lebanon, TN and the...
Description: In this episode, Ryan and Sam discuss how to establish strong leadership in children's ministry.
Description: In this episode, Ryan and Hunter discuss the state of kidmin as it relates to programming, family discipleship, and more.
Description: In this episode, Ryan and Sam explore the beauties and challenges of leadership at different sizes and levels of ministry.
Description: In this episode, Hunter and Ryan explore various aspects of children's ministry that you might be approaching incorrectly—or at least in a way that differs from their perspective on how it should be done.
Description: In this episode, Sam and Hunter continue their conversation with Jim Wideman to discuss coaching and children's ministry tips.
Description: In this episode, Sam and Hunter bring on good friend and coach, Jim Wideman, to discuss his top advice for children's ministry leaders.
Description: In this episode, Ryan and Hunter intervew Anne Eby about family worship and kids church. She is a wife, homeschool mom of three, and Kids Ministry Coordinator at Grace Story Church in Nashville, TN. Her desire to give her children a...
Description: In this episode, the guys discuss the importance of clear policies and expectations. They walk through things to consider from the time families arrive to when they leave and everything in between.
Description: In this episode, the guys discuss what their DREAM conference would be like.
I recently found my son sitting on the couch without his glasses. This wouldn’t be a big deal for most six-year-olds, but when my son is without his glasses, his eyes become cross-eyed almost instantly.
Description: In this episode, Sam and Hunter discuss kids Bibles, and which ones they suggest for different ages.
God, in his good wisdom, has given us a secret weapon for family discipleship, and it happens to be baked into the pattern of our daily lives. This secret weapon is the dinner table. Everybody has got to eat!
Description: In Part 2 of the Forming Faith series, Hunter and Sam speak with Awana Presiedent and CEO, Matt Markins, on the context of faith formation, its systems, and practical next steps.
Description: In this episode, Hunter interviews Sam Luce about his upcoming book and the comparison he makes between Mr. Rogers and Walt Disney's approaches to forming kids.
In today's fast-paced world, Christian parents often feel overwhelmed by the challenges of discipling their children. Many fear if they are doing “enough” to spiritually influence their children in today’s world.
Description: In this episode, Sam and Hunter discuss the three aspects of a healthy ministry.
Description: In this episode, the guys discuss the benefits of the stations and rotations model, and how it can be implemented in any church, no matter the space or time constraints.
My family loves to travel. We love to experience new things together, but every family trip calls for us to prepare. My kids pick out the toys they want to bring, I pack the clothes, and we prepare together.
Description: In this episode, Ryan interviews Hunter on his recent decision to leave Awana and become a children's pastor at a local church.
Description: In this episode, Sam and Ryan discuss the challenge of deciding when to continue or leave a ministry position.
Description: In this episode, Sam and Hunter offer advice on running a children's ministry with a low (or non-existent) budget.
Description: In this episode, the guys help churches fly in the SKY of context by discussing what leaders need to consider to serve their community well.
It happened again. I sat down with all three of my kids with the best intentions of completing a short devotional reading, and it turned into 30 minutes of tears, jumping off of everything (literally), and then sending everyone to their rooms with a shout of frustration: “God, I need some patience for these kids you gave me!”
Description: In this episode, Sam and Hunter help you stand on the SHORE of retention by discussing what volunteers need to stick around for the long haul.
Description: In this episode, the guys discuss how one's perspective on the church and structure of ministry can aid in ministering to families who attend inconsistently.
In your home, how big is God? In your home, through the eyes of your children, how trustworthy is he? How involved is your God? How near is he? The saying goes that when you are squeezed by life’s trials, what comes out of you reflects what was inside.
Description: In this episode, the guys discuss different approaches to outreach and give examples of ways they've connected with new families in their ministries.
Description: In this episode, Sam and Hunter provide a framework and tips for developing a discipleship strategy for your children's ministry.
After watching older movies, I always wondered what the secret sauce was for super moms. You know who I’m talking about; the moms who always had the perfect dinner ready, never got tired, and ensured the kids were always prepared for every event.
Description: In this episode, the guys discuss planning and promoting VBS. They also discuss hushpuppies - the food... not the shoes.
The topic of this article is teaching our kids a healthy hermeneutic when it comes to reading the Bible. Hermeneutics for kids?! Isn’t that a bit overeager and potentially above our young children’s heads?
Description: What is midweek, and is it effective? In this episode, Hunter and Sam discuss the pros and cons of midweek ministry and how a church can decide whether or not it's right for them.
Description: How do preschoolers learn? What's the best way to teach them? How should a preschool ministry be structured? In this episode, Hunter and Ryan get behind the mics to discuss all things preschool.
Have you ever been in a situation where you feel like everyone around is staring at you? Either you did something embarrassing, or your kids are acting too crazy in front of others.
Description: In this series, we interview 10 children's ministry leaders you need to know. In this episode, we interview Lori Buck. She is the Global Kid’s Ministry Director at Redeemer Church in Utica, New York and oversees production and creative...
Description: In this series, we interview 10 children's ministry leaders you need to know. In this episode, we interview Courtney Wilson. She is the KidsWorld Pastor for the St Charles/South Elgin Campus of Christ Community Church in St. Charles, IL....
Years ago, I listened to a sermon about prayer convicted me to my core. One idea from that sermon that resonates with me to this day is this: “Our prayerlessness exposes our self-reliance.”
Description: In this series, we interview 10 children's ministry leaders you need to know. In this episode, we interview Josh Zello. He is the Director of Family Ministry at Redemption City Church in Baltimore, Maryland, and the creator of...
Description: In this series, we interview 10 children's ministry leaders you need to know. In this episode, we interview Dale Hudson. He is the Children's Pastor at Abundant Life Church in Lee's Summit, Missouri and the founder of Building Children's...
Recently, I found myself in a hospital with socks and a stylish gown on. Usually, when you have these on, you have a procedure or check-up, but not this time.
Description: In this series, we interview 10 children's ministry leaders you need to know. In this episode, we interview Hanna Costello and Angela Aliff. They are the Kids directors at C3 Church Atlanta. They are passionate about partnering with...
Description: In this series, we interview 10 children's ministry leaders you need to know. In this episode, we interview Zack Rickards. He is the lead Kids Pastor at Family Church in South Florida and is passionate about partnering with parents to...
I first attempted to intentionally disciple my oldest when she was around a year old. I started making a list of everything I would do with her—the lessons I would teach her, the stories we would read, and even what we would discuss (she talked extremely early).
Description: In this series, we interview 10 children's ministry leaders you need to know. In this episode, we interview Joe Mally. He leads the kid's team at Kingsway Christian Church in Indiana and is the co-founder of Kidtivitybooks.com. ...
Description: In this series, we interview 10 children's ministry leaders you need to know. In this episode, we interview Rebekah Jones. She is the Kid's Director at Fairview Church in Lebanon, TN and has a passion for holistic discipleship for...
As Christ followers, we know that God’s Word is our bread for spiritual life. We take our nourishment, loving correction, wisdom, and hope for heaven from its pages. It is one of our primary means of grace for life in Christ until he comes.
Description: In this series, we interview 10 children's ministry leaders you need to know. In this episode, we interview Nick Judd. He is the kid's pastor at The Journey Church in Lebanon, TN and the co-host of the Everyday Apologetics podcast. ...
Description: In this series, we interview 10 children's ministry leaders you need to know. In this episode, we interview Chris Ammen. He is the pastor to children and families at Grace+Peace Church in Ooltewah, TN and the Founder of Kaleidoscope Kid's...
There are some classic cartoon characters that, when angry, change colors and have steam come out of their ears. Their anger is visible, and the situation usually ends badly for the character.
Description: It's our One-Year Annivesary of the podcast! To celebrate, we hosted an epic collaboration episode with two other children's ministry podcasts. Tom Bump (Kids Ministry Collective Podcast) and Melanie Hester (Child Discipleship Podcast)...
Description: How can you level up your kid's ministry? In the final part of this series, the guys discuss common misconceptions about biblical literacy, why it's in decline, and how to elevate it in your ministry.
It is a new year, which means change for many. Some might resolve to find a new job, hit the gym for the first time, or change their area of study. I’ve had many Januarys where I decided to start a diet, make a reading goal, or push myself in some new task for the year. Something about a new year challenges us to think we can try something new.
Description: How can you level up your kid's ministry? In part 3 of this series, the guys discuss two areas of ministry that will optimize your volunteers.
Description: How can you level up your kid's ministry? In part 2 of this series, the guys discuss families and why activating them for discipleship can change the trajectory of the entire church. Connect With Us! If you have any questions or...
Family discipleship is an important element of the Christian faith. But when your family has atypical children, it might look a little different. Family discipleship for atypical children can be frustrating and overwhelming at times, but take heart.
Description: How can you level up your kid's ministry? In part 1 of this series, the guys discuss the power of simplifying everything and how it can change your ministry for the better.
Description: What do Shark Tank, Zip Strings, and Jonathan Edwards have to do with Kid's Ministry in the New Year? You'll have to listen to Sam's unpopular opinion about New Year's resolutions to find out.
If your family is blessed to have two or more little people living in it, then I might guess that there is big sibling love involved—and likely big sibling squabbles. It’s a fact of life: when sinful people live together, they bump into one another, and conflict comes up.
Description: In this episode, the guys discuss the doctrine of Christ and Santa's role in the Narnia books, along with a supposed knockout punch he delivered at the Council of Nicea.
Description: In this episode, the guys discuss how a ministry's view of Scripture impacts its direction and confidence. Resources: (Chapter 1, Paragraph 7) Connect With Us! If you have any questions or suggestions for the show, please email...
If you’ve been following along at Cross Formed Kids for a bit, you’ve probably heard us tell you that parents are the primary disciple-makers in their children’s lives. But if you’re like me, that statement is a good news bad news situation.
The Christmas season approaches quickly every year. Once the leaves have fallen and the air is crisp, we see decorations, candy, and gift ideas in every store we enter.
Description: In this episode, Sam and Hunter discuss how our understanding of God changes the way we view ourselves and others.
Description: In this episode, Ryan and Hunter discuss how the doctrine of Creation impacts children's ministry and helps cultivate a lasting wonder of God in kids.
In various shows and movies, there are scenes where a kid’s birthday party or celebration occurs. We watch as chaos is all around.
Description: In part 2 of this conversation on mentorship, Jim Wideman shares what good mentors do and how you can be one to others.
Description: "Everybody does better with a coach." In this episode, Sam interviews veteran coach and mentor, Jim Wideman. In part one of this conversation, Jim shares why everyone (including you) needs a mentor.
I never considered myself to be an angry person until I had children. In fact, I had considered myself to be quite a patient and steady individual until the Lord brought new opportunities for my patience to be tested.
Description: In this episode, Ryan and Hunter discuss how principles from classical education can take your children's ministry to the next level.
Description: For many, meetings are tedious, boring, and downright annoying. But they don't have to be! In this episode, the guys share tips for planning and executing stellar meetings in your ministry.
Description: Your first year of children's ministry can be hard. In this episode, the guys share 4 things you need to consider when planning your first year of kid's ministry.
Description: There is so much to do every week in kid's ministry. How do you accomplish it all and do so fruitfully? In this episode, the guys provide helpful tips and tools for planning and getting the most out of your week.
Description: The number of curriculum options for kidmin leaders can be overwhelming. In this episode, Hunter and Ryan survey the curriculum landscape and discuss five factors that help churches narrow down their options. Resources: ...
Many mornings, I wake up, and my family’s entire day is accounted for within a few minutes. From work, school, kid activities, and church ministries, we can quickly go from nothing to do to no time at all.
Description: In this episode, Ryan shares his opinion about a children's ministry event, but Sam and Hunter are skeptical. Will Ryan be able to change their minds?
Description: In this episode, Ryan and Sam consider the challenges of firing difficult volunteers and discuss preventative measures that can be taken to avoid these tough situations.
Description: In this episode, Ryan interviews Sam to unpack the process his church pursued to select their new Kidmin curriculum.
God has designed an incredible opportunity for relational category after category to be built through the relationships we share in our families.
Description: "Who am I?" Everyone is seeking to answer this question, including kids. In this episode, the guys discuss identity, its modern challenges in children's ministry, and how to approach it faithfully as leaders in the church.
Description: The rapid advancement and power of technology can lead to various challenges in children's ministry. In this episode, the guys discuss some of these challenges and how leaders can thoughtfully work through them.
I remember the first time I held each of my kids. Each was a moment of overwhelming joy as I had waited in nine months of anticipation for that specific moment.
Description: When serving kids, disruptions are bound to happen, but how should they be handled? In this episode, Ryan and Hunter answer common questions and provide practical tips for managing your classroom with confidence and grace.
Description: What is the best way to teach kids? Should the goal be comprehension, attention, or retention? In this episode, Ryan and Hunter pick their favorite among the three and discuss why it should be deemed "king." Along the way, they give...
Description: What role do the design and structure of your children’s ministry space play in the discipleship of your kids? In this episode, the guys discuss ministry environments and what they communicate to families and kids.
In my backyard, two peach trees were planted by the previous owner. When we saw them, we were eager and excited to pick peaches throughout the summer and eat them outside.
Description: Disagreements happen. There are moments when co-workers or fellow believers need to be confronted, but how do we do this well? How do we foster unity and wisely handle conflict? In this episode, Sam and Hunter provide helpful tips for...
Description: Summer in children's ministry is usually a season of events. VBS. Camps. Block Parties. After all is said and done, how do you know if your events were fruitful? In this episode, Sam and Hunter walk through a framework for evaluating and...
