Operations 105, Class 6 Kids Spaces

Guest Lecturer Reagan Hillier has been partnering with churches for over ten years as President of Worlds of Wow! During that time, he has helped transform over 300 kids spaces using themed environments and play attractions. Worlds of Wow! is an industry leader in creating “ridiculously cool kids’ spaces” at non-mobile and mobile churches.

Class 6—Kids Spaces There is the old saying, “When Momma ain’t happy, ain’t nobody happy.” Moms with young children want exciting and dynamic kids’ spaces. They want to know that their kids will have fun while learning the Bible. Moms want the children’s areas to be safe and protected. This class will present a designer to walk us through three to five great kids’ spaces. We will see the “before and after.” The challenges of the design and implementation will be examined, as well as how they were solved. What did the church desire, what did they ask for and how were their needs met? What are the values that go into great kids’ spaces?

Transforming the Way Churches Reach the Next Generation Family Friendly Spaces by Reagan Hillier Worlds of Wow

Transforming the Way Churches Reach the Next Generation

Why this is important issue for churches today Every space has potential and doesn't have to be expensive

Transforming the Way Churches Reach the Next Generation

“We still have two to three families per month that join as a direct result of their signature themed play feature” - Bob Schickedanz “A wow experience in our children’s ministry is where the first impression brings guests back” - Allan Greer

Transforming the Way Churches Reach the Next Generation Engaging Environments Every space has some potential Engaging spaces where families want to be Colors, murals, etc., no beige or white Theme or storyline that fits your ministry Branding, logos Themes now don’t have to be over the top, specific storyline, can just be colors and graphics and line art Play music, sounds, bring energy level up Skew towards 4-5th grade boy

Transforming the Way Churches Reach the Next Generation

Play Areas More popular than ever Place where families and kids gather Opportunity for relationship building Gets kids to church on time if used first then closed Keeps families staying and visiting Volunteer and kids bonding time Time during week for gathering Can be ministry or revenue generator

Transforming the Way Churches Reach the Next Generation

Signs & Branding Logo Identity, Brand, Storyline Something kids identify and connect to Used online, t-shirts, printed materials, etc. Seen throughout space and building with signage

Transforming the Way Churches Reach the Next Generation

Security Computerized check in system Access controls, doors marked Communicate to parents you have a plan / rules Half doors at room entrances One way in, one way out Parents not roaming in large group rooms Restroom procedures Training of staff and volunteers

Transforming the Way Churches Reach the Next Generation Cleanliness / Clutter Connect online when they’re at home Take homes / Take-aways Create first time guest desks Do something It doesn't have to be expensive If planning a new building, get input/advice early Little steps matter Focus on the guests, first time visitors Ask your kids pastor what their vision is, empower them to act! Miscellaneous Items

Transforming the Way Churches Reach the Next Generation

Reagan Hillier worldsofwow.com wowphotoblog.com

Transforming the Way Churches Reach the Next Generation Q & A