How to Prepare for a Great Sunday School Class

I want to take some time to specifically talk to all the awesome Sunday School teachers out there. If you just started teaching toddlers—or if you’ve been leading preteens as long as you can remember—this is for you.

The children at your church come from many backgrounds. You may have little Megan, who can quote half the Bible, or you may have Jacob, who has heard the name Jesus but doesn’t know Him.

You have the opportunity to be a powerful illustration of how to walk with God.

No matter what kind of background children have, every one of them needs to see what a Christian looks like. You have the opportunity to be a powerful illustration of how to walk with God.

The time you have with these children may be the only time they learn about Jesus. The majority of adult Christians make the decision to follow Christ before the age of 13.

You have a front-row seat to witness children’s lives being changed forever as they come to know, love, and follow Jesus.

Showing God’s love is a blessing—the lessons you teach now may be the one thing that sticks with a child as he or she grows up in our ever-changing culture.

You have a front-row seat to witness children’s lives being changed forever as they come to know, love, and follow Jesus.

You’re not “just babysitting”.

You’re not just providing a warm body.

You are making an eternal impact.

Read the Lesson

That’s why your children’s ministry leader asks you to read the lesson and get it in your own heart before you stand up to teach or assist with classroom activities.

Be prepared to be a Sunday School teacher who makes a difference and shares the real love of Jesus with kids right where they are!

As a leader, you are impacting a child’s life—whether positively or negatively. It’s important work.

Get There Early

That’s also why you need to get there early to have the class set up and supplies ready to go.

If you’re scrambling to get ready, you won’t be available to interact with families—especially new ones.

Create a Welcoming Environment

That’s why you create a welcoming environment that starts with greeting each child.

It’s crucial that children feel they belong—like they’re the special audience for a message you can’t wait to give them.

Stick with the Curriculum

And that’s also why it’s important to stick with the curriculum. There’s no doubt that a lot of thought has gone into planning out the lessons—not just for one week, but for a whole series of weeks.

If you’re part of a large children’s ministry and have an idea that might enhance the curriculum, contact your leader so you can decide together on the best plan.

Remember to Pray

Lastly, remember to pray. Pray that you’ll be a good example of following Christ. Pray for each child and his or her family—asking God to help them know, above all, that Jesus loves them.

Jesus said that whoever welcomes a child in His name welcomes Jesus Himself. Take time to welcome these children—to welcome Jesus. And be prepared to be a Sunday School teacher who makes a difference and shares the real love of Jesus with kids right where they are!

Take time to welcome these children—to welcome Jesus.

Questions for Your Team to Think About:

What is the biggest obstacle for you that keeps you from preparing to teach?
What could you do to work around or overcome that obstacle?
How often do you talk with other teachers/leaders about what’s expected of you?
Where do you go to receive more detailed training about teaching or using curriculum?

Did you enjoy this video? Check out our other 2-Minute Trainers here.