Every time I step into a children’s ministry room, I’m reminded that each child is uniquely and wonderfully made by God. Their distinct personalities, behaviors, and challenges reflect the diversity God intended for His people. This beautiful variety creates a rich, vibrant community where no two Sundays are ever the same.

But it also presents the challenge of meeting the unique needs of each child. It’s crucial to see every child as a whole person—fully human, with their own dreams, emotions, and ways of engaging with the world. Instead of expecting all children to act alike, we are called to honor their individuality and minister to them in ways that reflect God’s love for them.

How do we practically meet the needs of every child in our Sunday school classes? How do we discipline children in a way that nurtures relationship and discipleship? And how do we change our attitude toward that one child who always seems to test our patience?

It begins with a shift in our hearts.

four kids standing in a circle smiling

Sharing God’s Love with Every Child as a Whole Person

Jesus Loves Children

One of my favorite moments in Jesus’ ministry is when He corrected His disciples’ careless attitude toward children. When families brought their children to Jesus for a blessing, the disciples rebuked them, seeing the children as distractions who were unworthy of Jesus’ time.

But Jesus turned this thinking upside down, saying, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these” (Matthew 19:14). Jesus didn’t just tolerate children—He welcomed them as central to the Kingdom.

In today’s world, we often fall into the same trap of pushing children aside, seeing them as inconveniences or requiring too much or our time. This mindset is dangerous for us as followers of Christ. When we fall into this trap, we miss the profound opportunity to learn from a childlike faith.

We are called to honor their individuality and minister to them in a way that reflects God’s love for them.

When we view children as frustrating or disruptive, it’s easy to lose sight of their inherent worth. But when we see them as God does—whole, unique individuals with emotions, thoughts, and the ability to experience God’s love—we can better meet them where they are. In doing so, we guide their hearts toward the One who treasures them most.

So, how do we disciple children effectively while embracing this whole-person mindset?

Check Your Heart Posture

Children are incredibly perceptive and can sense when you’re not fully present or engaged. If you feel frustrated, tired, or distracted, they will pick up on it.

Take time to ask the Holy Spirit for patience, wisdom, and love for the children in your care.

When your heart is in the right place—full of love, patience, and a desire to see children grow—they will be more open to correction and guidance. Children are more likely to respond to someone they know genuinely cares for them.

How to Guard Yourself from Ministry Burnout

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How to Guard Yourself from Ministry Burnout

There are moments in every leader’s journey that defines whether they move forward or give up. Things happen, life gets hard, and opportunities come and go. Download this guide to be encouraged in your leadership walk with the Lord!
Free Guide

How to Guard Yourself from Ministry Burnout

There are moments in every leader’s journey that defines whether they move forward or give up. Things happen, life gets hard, and opportunities come and go. Download this guide to be encouraged in your leadership walk with the Lord!
Free Guide

Look at the Root of the Behavior

Many times, what looks like a discipline problem is actually a symptom of a deeper issue. Children may act out because they are struggling with issues like fatigue, sensory overload, or even trouble at home.

When you encounter behavior problems, ask yourself: What does this child truly need? Are they hungry, tired, feeling insecure? When we seek to understand the root cause, we can often prevent misbehavior and offer the support that the child really needs.

Seeing the child as a whole person means recognizing that their actions are tied to deeper emotions and needs.

Discipline Rooted in Relationships

Effective discipline is more than just correcting behavior—it’s about building a relationship with the child. Discipline without relationship can feel like punishment and may not reach the child’s heart. When discipline is rooted in love and trust, it becomes an opportunity for growth.

Jesus didn’t just tolerate children—He welcomed them as central to the Kingdom.

It allows the child to understand why their behavior matters and how they can make better choices in the future. Rather than simply focusing on consequences, we should aim to guide their hearts toward Christ-like behavior.

Discipline grounded in relationship leads to true transformation, helping children grow in both character and faith.

Trust the Holy Spirit to Work in Their Lives

For children who have accepted Jesus, we must remember that they have the full presence of the Holy Spirit within them. This means that their spiritual growth is already being guided by God Himself.

Our role is not to “fix” them, but to provide an environment where the Holy Spirit can work freely. Pray for them, encourage them, and trust that God is working in their hearts—even when the changes aren’t immediate or visible.


As children’s ministry leaders, we have the incredible privilege of shaping young hearts. But this requires seeing children as whole persons, complete with their own challenges, thoughts, and emotions.

When we embrace this mindset, we don’t simply manage their behavior but nurture their souls. Let’s commit to leading with love, grace, and understanding, trusting that God is at work in each child’s life.

Our willingness to invest in them, even when it’s hard, reflects the heart of Christ—and that is a lesson far more powerful than any correction we offer.