Whether you have 15 kids or 150 kids, leading VBS can be an overwhelming challenge. So we’ve asked veteran VBS directors around the country to share some tips on how to have an amazing VBS experience as a director. Here are 5 tips and tricks that overwhelmingly rose to the top:
- Start planning early, and once VBS starts, be ready to adapt—We know, easier said than done. But many directors said that the earlier they started planning, the easier it was to pull everything together. One VBS director put it best when she said to do all you can to plan and prepare, and then once VBS starts, go with the flow. Things won’t go exactly to your plan, but God always works it out, so don’t stress over it! Looking for a place to start? Check out the planning guide in your Ultimate Director Guide, it will put you on the path to planning success!
- Surround your VBS with people who love VBS—This was one of our favorite tips! VBS is full of fun, adventure, and sharing God’s Word with kids. If you surround your VBS with positive minded volunteers who are excited to be there, it will create the ultimate experience for your kids and you!
- Delegate, delegate, delegate—God has given everyone special gifts, and there are many different ways people can serve at VBS. Whether it be manning the registration table or heading up the decorations team, your job is to find those people, put them in the right position, and let them run free! If you’re like me and find it hard to ask other people to step in, check out this article that explains why delegating is so important and lays out easy to follow steps to make you a delegating dynamo!
- Collaborate with churches in your area—Whether you’re doing the same program as another church in your area or not, you can still reach out and share tips about VBS. It’s a great way to make new friends and create a support system right in your own community. A great way to network with other churches in your area is through VBS FunShops, training events that happen every spring around the country.
- Pray—It seems obvious, but prayer is without a doubt the most important thing you can do for your VBS! One director suggested asking church members who might not be able to serve at VBS to be prayer warriors. Ask them to pray through every stage of VBS, from planning to the end of the event.
Just remember, whether this is your 1st year or 20th as a director, trust God and give your VBS to him—because he’s the ultimate one in control and will guide you every step of the way!
