Kids Ministry Collective

What You'll Learn in This Episode You're running your kids ministry on fumes—short-staffed, stretched thin, and wondering where your next volunteer is coming from. This episode is for you. We dig into the real challenges of recruiting and retaining volunteers in children's ministry without burning yourself out in the process. Learn practical strategies Nicole Brutosky and our team use to move from constantly asking for help to actually building a team that stays. Topics covered: Why volunteers quit (and it's probably not what you think) The difference between shadowing and serving (and why it matters) How to build trust with your volunteer team Delegation that actually works Creating safe entry points for new volunteers Fun, food, and feedback: The forgotten retention tools Appreciating volunteers in specific, meaningful ways Want your FREE Call with a KMC Coach? Head to kidsministrycollective.com

In this episode, Tom Bump, Cole Rice, and Vicki Abbott discuss the challenges of volunteer recruitment and retention in church ministries. They emphasize the importance of understanding the difference between recruiting new volunteers and retaining existing ones. The conversation highlights key questions leaders should ask themselves to improve their volunteer culture and the significance of creating a culture of celebration to enhance retention. Want to get some help with your recruitment plan? We want to help you, Go to: kidsministrycollective.com You can get 30 minutes of FREE Mentor/Coaching just by setting up a a clarity call.

In this episode, the KMC Team welcomes listeners back to the KMC Collective Podcast for Season 3, discussing their commitment to the kids' ministry community and previewing upcoming topics. They delve into the importance of building confidence in leadership, sharing personal experiences with imposter syndrome and the challenges of people-pleasing. The conversation reflects on highlights from Season 2 and emphasizes the need for community engagement and open dialogue among leaders. In this episode, the hosts discuss their experiences with worship music, the importance of community connections, and the impact of international outreach. They share their excitement for the upcoming season, highlighting new topics and engagement strategies to foster growth in the kids ministry community. The conversation emphasizes the value of learning together and encourages listeners to subscribe and participate in the podcast's journey. Want to sign up for the Better Together Newsletter? SIGN UP HERE! Want to learn more about the Kids Ministry Collective! CLICK HERE!

Sharing the gospel with kids sounds simple, but one wrong word can create confusion that lasts for years. In this episode, Tom, Cole, Ben, and Vicki tackle the tough questions: Are you using too many Christian terms? Is your "hand raise" invitation actually clear? And what happens after kids say yes? These children's ministry leaders dig into why clarity matters, how to avoid confusing language like "ask Jesus into your heart," and why following up is just as important as the initial invitation. You'll hear real stories from Easter egg hunts and church camps where kids didn't actually understand what they were committing to—and practical strategies to prevent it. Whether you're presenting the gospel at a big event or every Sunday, this conversation will challenge how you share Jesus with the next generation. Discover why consistency, clear language, and discipleship are the keys to helping kids truly understand and remember the gospel. Join the conversation in the KMC Collective Facebook group and share your gospel presentation strategies. Want help with getting clarity: Set up a 30 Minute Clarity call with a KMC Coach

In this weeks Kids Ministry Collective Podcast, Our conversation asked the question: What if the biggest threat to your child's faith isn't what you think? Matt Markins, CEO of Awana, sits down with Tom and Ben to expose the counterfeit narratives quietly shaping kids' identities—often before they even turn 13. From screens to peers to well-meaning but watered-down Bible teaching, kids are absorbing stories that compete with the gospel every single day. In this conversation, Matt reveals his own battle with false narratives from childhood trauma, unpacks why "Bible light" moralism backfires, and shares practical tools to anchor children in the true story of Scripture: creation, fall, redemption, and restoration. If you're a parent, pastor, or ministry leader who wants to equip kids to stand firm in a culture of confusion, this episode is a must-listen. Mentioned on Episode: Child Discipleship Forum BRITE Curriculum Kids Ministry Collective THE PLACE FOR KIDMIN!

In this powerful episode of the Kids Ministry Collective Podcast, our panel tackles a challenging situation many children's ministry leaders face: operating with severely restricted budgets and canceled events. Join hosts Tom, Cole, Ben, and Vicki as they share practical wisdom for thriving in ministry when traditional programming isn't an option. Key Discussion Points: How to reframe budget cuts as opportunities for innovation Creative alternatives to traditional VBS and holiday events Building community without big programming Leveraging existing resources and volunteer talents Ways to maximize Sunday morning impact Strategies for neighborhood-based ministry Practical Solutions Discussed: Popup neighborhood events Interest-based connection clubs Community partnerships Prayer-focused initiatives Family engagement strategies No-cost fellowship opportunities Want Help? Go To kidsministrycollective.com and you can find Coaching, Community, Resources and More!!!