Guidelines for Children's Ministry

What Every Child Should Experience: A Guide for Teachers and Leaders in United Methodist Congregations - This resource contains a comprehensive guide to scripture significant for children as they develop cognitively and theologically. It is meant to closely follow the three-year lectionary cycle. This resource also contains a chart of what children need and understand developmentally around the beliefs and concepts of God, Worship, The Bible, Home and Family, Everyday Life, Community and Wesleyan Heritage. 

Childcare and the Church - This is the official document of the United Methodist Church that outlines the church's responsibilities in initiating, encouraging, and participating in the highest quality of child care for children and families, not only in the local community but also nationwide. 
 
Safe Sanctuaries - Reducing the Risk of Abuse in the Church for Children and Youth - Practical guidance is provided in developing and implementing a substantive, holistic action plan of abuse prevention. Available through Upper Room Books.
For more information and resources you may also visit our Safe Sanctuaries page.
 
The United Methodist Task Force on Disabilities Ministries - Resources, support, and guidance on actively including people with disabilities in the life of the church. Some people came in, carrying a paralyzed man in a chair. They wanted to bring him to Jesus, but they were not able to find a way in because of the crowd. So they went up onto the roof and let him and his chair down through it! - Luke 5:18 
 
Guidelines for Children's Ministries - This booklet concentrates of the basics of ministry that help children grow in faith. It is the beginning point for organizing for ministry and is designed to help congregations use their own gifts to respond to God's call to care for the children, on Sunday morning, through the week and for special events. Downloadable resource through Cokesbury.com
 
Job Descriptions and Leadership Training in the United Methodist Church 2009-2012 - A Leader Development Guide - In this guide, each job description includes: Result Expected, Spiritual Gifts and Qualifications Helpful for this Position, Responsibilities, Support to Expect from the Congregation, Getting Started, People and Agencies That Can Help, and Resources for Help. In addition to individual positions within congregational life, the book explores biblical roots and dimensions of leader development. It includes new thinking based on field research and training leaders in a variety of settings. Available through Upper Room books