Prepared by Teachable Heart Ministries “Being Relevant” Prepared by Teachable Heart Ministries
“Then little children were brought to Jesus for him to place his hands on them and pray for them. But the disciples rebuked those who brought them. Jesus said, "Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these." - Matt 19:13-14
To relate to kids today, you have to understand what motivates them To relate to kids today, you have to understand what motivates them. Times change People Don’t Interests change Needs Don’t Everyone needs… to be shown Attention know Acceptance to appreciate Approval to experience Success to benefit Rewards and to feel a sense of Accomplishment
Being relevant to the kids in your class is understanding both their interests and needs.
The Jesus Model How can you meet the needs of the kids in your class The Jesus Model How can you meet the needs of the kids in your class? How can you take advantage of your kids’ interests in your teaching? “People don’t care what you know until they know that you care.” - unknown
“Rules for Relating” – In Class Pray for the kids of your class each week. Take prayer requests, let them know you’re praying for them during the week. Ask follow up questions so they know you cared, remembered, and still care. Ask lots of questions This lets the kids know that you really care. Listen, and ask follow-up questions the next week. Take note of what interests the kids of your class, and then ask them questions about the things that interest them.
“Rules for Relating” – Outside Class Take note of your kids/grandkids interests Watch a kids cartoon or movie View some kids websites Listen to some kids music Look on the book shelves (good & bad) Be a part of their world! Observe kids before and after your class What are they talking about?
Teaching with the Modern Parable… Show the kids that you care. Make your applications relevant to the kids. Know what’s going on in our kids’ world (but you don’t have to be an expert)