Creating a Culture of JOY!

We’ve all heard (or maybe even delivered) the desperate announcement from the platform:

'Hi friends, we desperately need more volunteers in children’s ministry (cue tears). With the Jones family moving away and the Acevedo’s dealing with a sick family member, we’ve lost a few people. Burnout has hit others, and we’ve got more kids than ever. Please, even if kids aren’t really your thing… really, we’re desperate! If no one steps up, we’ll have to close classrooms… or make parents serve twice per month… please!'

Sound familiar? Maybe it wasn’t worded exactly like that, but you get the vibe. And honestly, no one wants to join something that feels like it’s bleeding volunteers or barely holding on. So, what if we never had to make that kind of announcement again?

Take a breath. Pray. Step back for a moment. Instead of focusing on the problem, dream about the culture you want to create. Think about the kind of ministry people would want to join—and the kind of environment kids would love to be part of. Then, plan for that. And start living it out.

Creating a joy-FILLED culture in children’s ministry is one of the most powerful ways to engage kids, energize volunteers, and invite families into something truly life-changing. Here are a few ideas on how to get started:

1. Center everything on Jesus

At the heart of joy is Jesus. When kids understand His love for them, it sparks a joy that runs deep and lasts long. Build your entire ministry around the good news of Jesus and make every moment point back to Him. Whether you’re singing, storytelling, crafting, or just hanging out, remind kids of the hope and joy we have in Christ.

Pro Tip: Use interactive, age-appropriate Bible lessons that bring Scripture to life. Storytelling, visuals, and hands-on activities are great tools to keep Jesus at the center.

2. Create a warm, welcoming environment

Joy starts with how kids (and their families) feel the moment they walk through the doors. Bright, colorful spaces that are clean and inviting help set the tone. But just as important are smiles, kind words, and making sure every kid feels seen and valued.

Pro Tip: Train your team to greet kids by name and build consistent routines—like a welcome song or high-five station—that help kids feel right at home.

3. Build community

Joy thrives in community. When kids feel connected to their leaders and peers, they’re more likely to open up, engage, and keep coming back. Invest in authentic relationships by prioritizing small group time, team-building games, and meaningful conversations.

Pro Tip: Assign consistent leaders to small groups so kids build trust and familiarity over time.

4. Celebrate!

Whether it’s a birthday, a spiritual milestone, or just a really kind gesture, celebration fuels joy. When kids feel noticed and celebrated, they feel loved and included—and that’s what ministry is all about.

Pro Tip: Create a 'Joy Wall' where kids can post answered prayers, share their artwork, or write notes about what they’re grateful for.

5. Empower a joyful volunteer team

The heart of any thriving ministry is its volunteers. When your team is full of joy, it overflows into their interactions with kids. Equip and encourage your leaders so they feel excited and energized about serving.

Pro Tip: Start each team meeting with gratitude and prayer. Share wins, affirm your volunteers, and celebrate the impact they’re making. Celebrate their milestones, roles that they play, and wins (big and small!).

6. Pray for joy

True joy comes from the Holy Spirit and cultivating it in your ministry starts with prayer. Pray for your kids, your team, and the families you’re serving. Ask God to fill your ministry with His joy and make it contagious.

Pro Tip: Start and end each session with a short prayer for joy, involving the kids as much as possible.

Joy is the best invitation

When your children’s ministry is fueled by joy, it becomes magnetic. Kids will want to be part of it. Volunteers will want to serve in it. Families will feel the ripple effects of it. By intentionally cultivating joy, you’re not just creating a fun program—you’re building a community that reflects the heart of Jesus and invites everyone to experience His love.

So take a deep breath, pray big, and go spread some joy!