Published on: 18/11/2025
Children’s ministry is one of the most rewarding areas of church life, filled with laughter, creativity, and the privilege of shaping young hearts for Jesus. But anyone who’s been in the depths of this knows it’s not without its hurdles. Whether you’re a leader or just stepping into this calling, here are some common challenges in children’s ministry and some practical ways to overcome them.
As we prepare for any children’s ministry we must remember to PRAY. We are in a partnership with Jesus as the Holy Spirit works through us to build God’s kingdom. We can do most things, but it is with God’s strength and vision we serve the best way we can.
Recruiting and Retaining Volunteers
This is often testing as I often have numerous ideas for new groups, activities and ways to enrich children’s ministry. However, many ministries struggle with finding enough committed, reliable volunteers. Some people feel unqualified, too busy, or unsure about working with kids.
Try and invite potential volunteers to sessions, show them what happens and how the sessions are run. Often explaining can put people off as they create a personal interpretation or expectation. Distinguish the potential and highlight the actual.
We must cast vision, not just fill slots. Help potential volunteers see the eternal impact of serving in children’s ministry. Share stories of transformation for encouragement. Encourage people with their own personal gifts and strengths.
It is paramount to train and support well. Offer clear onboarding, regular encouragement, and practical resources for volunteers to feel well supported.
We should celebrate volunteers often. Recognition, thank-you notes, or small gestures go a long way in building lasting commitment, showing appreciation and gratitude for their significant input and time.
“A BIG thank you to all volunteers that give the time and commitment so willingly”
Engaging children and families with Different Needs and Backgrounds
Every group of children is unique with different learning styles, personalities, and sometimes special needs or family situations. We must be flexible, we can prepare but be ready to adjust activities or teaching styles on the spot. Remembering not all activities will go the way we initially planned. Maybe the Holy Spirit is at work without us knowing. Feel confident to change things, children can be great at unknowingly leading their own sessions.
For a sense of belonging it is important to create an inclusive environment. Train leaders/ volunteers in basic special-needs awareness and sensitivity, encouraging all of those involved with the children’s work can feel confident in doing this. It is important you know the children you work with, this allows you to plan appropriately and to be a child centred space for growth. What suits one child may not suit another, remembering we are all uniquely and individually made.
Partner with parents. They know their children best. Invite their input and collaboration to allow relationships to build with parents/carers.
Competing for Attention
In an age of screens, sports, and schedules, keeping kids’ attention (and attendance) is increasingly difficult.
We should desire to be the child’s choice not an option or must go to. We can make learning interactive, use games, crafts, storytelling, and multimedia that connect with kids’ everyday experiences.
We can avoid burnout
The demands of ministry (emotional, physical, and spiritual) can take a toll. It is important we avoid burnout. We often give so much – pour out but forget to refill ourselves.
We must prioritise personal time with God. Whether it be scripture reading, worship, prayer, attending services or groups. Ministry flows from overflow, not emptiness.
Share the load – build teams, delegate, and trust others.
Celebrate wins and rest well – Even Jesus took time away to recharge.
Final Thought
Children’s ministry is full of challenges, but each hurdle is also an opportunity to grow, adapt, and see God at work in powerful ways. When we stay rooted in Christ, serve with joy, and remember why we do what we do, the hurdles become stepping stones towards deeper impact.
Helping children grow spiritually isn’t about having all the answers. It’s about walking with them, pointing them to Jesus, and trusting that God is already at work in their hearts.
Plant seeds of faith. Water them with love. And trust that God will bring the growth.
This week’s Blog post was written by Emma Johnson, Centenary Project Worker