Our target children will fall into one of four categories (or maybe a combination of any two). They will be unsaved and unchurched, an occasional visitor, semi-faithful to the church and it's children's ministries, or part of the core group. The goal is to plan activities and programs that will help each group of children continue to move closer to the core group until they themselves are part of the core group which is faithful to the Lord, the church, and its ministries.

Unsaved and Unchurched

Our goal is to reach out to these children who are not involved in a church and who do not know Jesus as their Savior. We want to get them here, present the gospel, and wet their appetites for more. At this stage they are not necessarily interested in spiritual things, so fun is key. However, mixed with the fun, crucial Biblical truths are taught.

 

Occasional Visitor

Our goal is to give them a desire for more spirituality. We want to continue presenting the gospel and inviting them to join us for more activities. Developing relationships with other children their age at this stage is crucial to giving them a sense of belonging.

 

Semi-Faithful

Since these kids kind of pick and choose what they are going to participate in, it is important to spend time teaching them that the "me" factor needs to be eliminated. Choices are made using the "Joy" factor (Jesus, Others, and You). We need to keep presenting the gospel for those who are not saved, but mix it with Christian growth principles to teach and challenge others along.

 

Core

These kinds don't have a problem attending and participating in activities. They are usually saved, but it is possible for a child to be in the core group and not be saved. At this stage our main focus should be to help them develop and grow in their relationship to the Lord. More ministry type activities, as well as Bible studies can be planned to help accomplish this goal.