5 Ways to Use Digital Platforms to Engage Children in Church
If you are leading your church’s outreach planning, don’t miss out on digital ways to engage the most important members: the children! Think about how the Lord always made time and space for young ones in his teaching. That’s why engaging children in church should be a top priority. God worked to give and show love to everyone and didn’t neglect the smallest souls of the Kingdom.
For example, in Mark 10:13-16:
People were bringing little children to Jesus for him to place his hands on them, but the disciples rebuked them. When Jesus saw this, he was indignant. He said to them, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these. Truly I tell you, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it.” And he took the children in his arms, placed his hands on them and blessed them.
Here are five ways to use digital platforms and apps for your children’s outreach planning.
1. Bible audio podcasts
Let your little ones relax and listen to a Bible story, from the comfort of their couch or bed. Storytelling has come a long way since Jesus first gave the sermon on the mount, and now anyone can tune in to his words, no matter where they are.
Matthew 18:1-5
At that time the disciples came to Jesus and asked, “Who, then, is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?”
He called a little child to him, and placed the child among them. And he said: “Truly I tell you, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. Therefore, whoever takes the lowly position of this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven. And whoever welcomes one such child in my name welcomes me.”
2. Virtual Nature Walks
If you have been practicing social distancing, you might miss your family travels, and your kids can go stir-crazy at home, too. Teach them to appreciate the beauty of God’s nature, even online. For example, AllTrails lets kids explore via a huge library of hand-curated trail maps, to get them excited for the great outdoors. Once you are able to go for nature walks with friends, you will have a lot to be thankful for and mindful about.
Mark 9:36-37
He took a little child whom he placed among them. Taking the child in his arms, he said to them, “Whoever welcomes one of these little children in my name welcomes me; and whoever welcomes me does not welcome me but the one who sent me.”
3. Online art activities for all to share
If your little ones are into creative crafts, set up an online group where they can post their artworks in the safety of supportive church members. You can always tie in the art themes with your Christian outreach programs. For example, when fundraising for missions in far-flung fields, kids can post art related to the culture in those countries: the costumes, dress, food, and landmarks found there.
Ephesians 6:4
Fathers, do not exasperate your children; instead, bring them up in the training and instruction of the Lord.
4. Virtual Prayer Practices
The Upper Room came up with the idea for Pandemic Prayer Practices for Families. If you are lacking ideas for your prayer times, or want to make it more fun for kids, check them out to get inspired. For example, a family altar, written prayers, and activities that help calm the little ones’ minds for a healthy, spiritual prayer practice.
Psalm 8:2
Through the praise of children and infants, you have established a stronghold against your enemies, to silence the foe and the avenger.
5. Fun with Bible Quiz Apps
There are many free apps available, such as Bible HIStory, available for iPhone and iPad. This is an app that teaches both ancient history and biblical history. Choose a challenging multi-player mode, or let kids play it on their own if you are having quiet time. Sometimes you just need something that is both educational and inspirational to occupy them.
Psalm 127:3
Children are a heritage from the Lord, offspring a reward from him.
It’s Easy to Engage Children in Church!
Don’t forget to share any online activities you find useful for members of your church, especially families who live far from fellowship. It helps to guide and give strength to any parents and teachers looking for online support.
Another thing to remember is that non-profits and churches must develop their children’s programs if they want to reach donors who place a high value on children’s growth and education. You may have supporters who have a heart for children, who want to see more involvement in education or child development.
Through an online platform, you can easily manage the various activities planned throughout the year. If you are creating events for families and kids, plan them through our Donorwerx platforms. In closing, let’s remember the words of Jesus in Matthew 18:10:
“See that you do not despise one of these little ones. For I tell you that their angels in heaven always see the face of my Father in heaven.”
