shepherding tips {for new volunteers}

as the new ministry season begins, and new volunteers find their way in connecting with children, a few tips for volunteers looking to shepherd and relationally invest in their children's lives.

{also, last year i posted curriculum tips for new volunteers}

be an intentional shepherd: in biblical times, a shepherd was someone who cared for and protected a group of sheep. we often use the name "shepherd" in children's ministry to refer to a volunteer who cares for a small group of children. just like a biblical shepherd, caring for the group takes time and intentionality. commit to a group of children whom you can get to know and invest in for the year. be intentional in building deep relationships with this group; say no to additional opportunities in order to give your best energy to a small group of children. 

use a cheat: knowing children's names, their parents' names, their pets' names and their favorite classes at school is not easy. it's a myth that the best shepherds of children also have the best memories. the truth is that the best shepherds of children are those who work hard to remember important details of children's lives. so, use a cheat. carry a small notebook and write down names, pets, and classes as children say them to you. and, of course, reference the notebook before each class in order to jog your memory and prepare your mind to ask specific questions to each child. 

ask questions & listen: children say the most interesting things when adults are listening! on sunday morning, take time to ask questions and genuinely listen to each child's answer. ask feeling questions: how did you feel when...? or were you suprised when...? ask wondering questions: i wonder how that will turn out...? or i wonder what you will do..? encourage children to freely speak, even when the free speaking comes right smack in the middle of the lesson. if a child has something to say about his parents, or how he's feeling, take a moment to pause and let him speak. his words just might turn out to be the best lesson of the day. 

connect outisde, but don't go crazy: it's great to pray for children and connect with them & their families outside of sunday morning. attending an occassional band concert or basketball game can mean a lot for children, but don't go crazy. don't friend all of the children on facebook and post daily on their wall. don't text them while they're in school, and definitely don't call them every day. remember--you're part of a larger tribe {of teachers, parents, and friends} committed to the growth of the child. now, at the beginng of the year, is the perfect time to discuss with parents how you'll best stay connected throughout the week in a way that's good and healthy for everyone. 

congrats on your new role as shepherd! cheers for a year filled with great conversations, deep relationships, and spiritual growth for children. thank you for your service!