Suppose we asked the children. “Why did you come to VBS?”

Think about these possible answers.

• No one else is home, I was lonely

• My (mom, dad, grandma, brother, family member) kicked me out of the house.

• My friend came last year and said it was fun.

• I wanted to learn more about Jesus.

• I was afraid to come alone so a friend brought me.

• I heard we got snacks.

• My friend told me he felt loved here.

• I came last year and it was great.

• We get to make things (crafts).

• My mom told me to come, or else!

Children tend to be more “up front” and honest with their answers than adults..

What are some of the impressions the children might get when they come to VBS?

• They are tolerated.

• They are accepted.

• They are cared for

• They feel part of the group.

• They feel loved.

And a good VBS team member will help all children be welcome and loved. But how do the children get those feelings? By simple signs, behaviors they observe from volunteers and other children.

• Verbally – Welcome. Glad you are here. Let me help you. Jesus loves you, .. and so on. Let the volume and tone of voice reflect love.

• Physically – the touch. Holding hands. Hugs. Encouraging closeness.

• Facially- Keep smiling. Show happiness expressions. Make a lot of eye contact. Avoid the frown.

• Movement – Keep motions to reflect inclusiveness.

Use motions of acceptance without regard to race, physical or mental handicap, culture socioeconomic background. Even if child’s attitude is hostile or obnoxious. Keep in mind that some children are more difficult to handle, to include than others.

This reminds me of a teacher who was always happy to take the difficult children in her class. Amazingly, her classes always turned out to be a delight. One day I asked her how she could be so successful with the children other teachers preferred not to have in their class.

Her answer was simple and to the point. “I just love ’em to death!”

We try to teach the love of Jesus Christ to the children. We teach more by example than by words. You see, love is unique. The more love you give (to everyone) the more love you get.

The more love you give (to everyone) the more love you get.
 

Some of the children don’t get much love at home. They come to VBS to get the feeling of acceptance and unconditional love. Don’t disappoint them.

With VBS, everyone wins!