In this episode, Damean talks about one of the most uncomfortable parts of ministry—fundraising. Asking for money can feel awkward, stressful, and even discouraging. But the reality is that events, camps, trips, and meaningful ministry experiences all require resources. Damean walks through how fundraising doesn’t have to feel transactional or pressure-filled. With a little strategy and creativity, it can become an opportunity to share your vision, build relationships, and invite your whole church into what God is doing through your ministry.

What We Cover: 

• How to plan fun, creative fundraisers for your ministry.
• What steps to take to make fundraising more engaging and inclusive.
• How sharing your vision for ministry can help with fundraising.

For More:
Visit growcurriculum.org/blog for more ministry ideas, helpful tools, and the full show blog from this episode.

In this episode, Damean talks about one of the most familiar tensions in ministry — balancing what’s important with what feels urgent. Every week brings responsibilities, unexpected problems, relationships to nurture, and vision to lead. And while the urgent moments aren’t going away, they don’t have to derail your entire week. Damean walks through a simple, repeatable way to plan your week around four key areas so you can stay focused, lead well, and still leave room for the surprises ministry always brings.

What We Cover:

• Why it's so important to plan how you'll spend your time each week
• How focusing on 4 key things every week can help you grow in your leadership and time management. 
• How to download a Weekly Planner that's designed just for church leaders! 

For More:

Visit growcurriculum.org/blog for more ministry ideas, helpful tools, and the full show blog from this episode.

And you can grab your free printable 2026 Weekly Planner by Grow Curriculum here! 

In this episode, Danny explores how families in your ministry can celebrate Advent in simple, meaningful, and spiritually formative ways. Christmas isn’t just a day — it’s a season full of anticipation, reflection, and connection. We'll walk through how families can serve together, study Scripture, pray intentionally, tell stories, sing, create, and build traditions that help them focus on hope, peace, joy, and love.

What We Cover:

• Why Advent is such a meaningful season for families
• Simple ways families can celebrate Advent together
• How the Advent Journey Devotional Cards can help families grow spiritually this season

For More:

Visit growcurriculum.org/blog for more ministry ideas, helpful tools, and the full show blog from this episode.

Looking for an Advent resource to share with your families? Check out the Advent Journey Devotional Cards — a daily card deck from Grow Curriculum designed to help kids, teenagers, and families read Scripture, reflect together, take action, and pray through the season of Advent.

Host: Danny Sugimoto

Be sure to subscribe for more practical training, and leave us a review on Apple Podcasts!

When you started in ministry, it was because you wanted to help kids and teenagers grow in their faith. But growth doesn’t just happen — it’s shaped by habits, opportunities, and experiences that help kids and students discover who God made them to be. In this episode, Linda walks through how to help your group use their unique gifts to love God, love others, and make a difference in the world. You’ll learn why using our gifts is one of the four key spiritual habits in the Grow Discipleship Strategy, and how two practical resources — Community Care Kits and The After You Service Project — can help your group put those gifts into action. 

What We Cover:

• How using our gifts helps kids and teenagers grow spiritually
• Ways to create opportunities for your group to serve and lead
• Two ready-to-go service projects to help your group make an impact

For More:

Visit growcurriculum.org/blog for more ministry ideas, helpful tools, and the full show blog from this episode.

Ready to help your group start serving others?

Check out these two discipleship activities from Grow Curriculum:

• Community Care Kits: A creative way to help your group notice needs around them and respond with compassion.
• The After You Service Project: A hands-on experience that helps kids and teenagers learn about food insecurity and serve others with empathy.

Host: Linda Moon

Be sure to subscribe for more practical training, and leave us a review on Apple Podcasts! 

In this episode, Danny talks about one of the biggest challenges every ministry leader faces — finding and keeping great volunteers. From leading games and small groups to setting up and tearing down every week, volunteers make ministry possible. But creating a team that’s motivated, equipped, and excited to serve takes more than a sign-up form. Danny walks through how to build a volunteer culture people love, empower your team to lead well, and develop a strategy that helps volunteers grow all year long.

What We Cover:

• Why it’s important to create a culture volunteers love
• How volunteers make your ministry better
• The steps that can help you recruit, train, and retain volunteers

For More:

Visit growcurriculum.org/blog for more ministry ideas, helpful tools, and the full show blog from this episode.

Want to build a stronger volunteer team? Check out the Volunteer resources in the Grow Marketplace for handbooks, training guides, and more!

Host: Danny Sugimoto

Be sure to subscribe for more practical training, and leave us a review on Apple Podcasts!

• (00:10) - Welcome

If you’ve been following Jesus for a while, you probably have a few spiritual habits that help you grow — things like reading the Bible, praying, or going to church. But for kids and teenagers, those ideas don’t always come naturally. They’re still figuring out what faith looks like in their everyday lives. In this episode, Danny and Jason talk about what spiritual growth really looks like for the next generation and how you can help kids and teenagers develop lifelong spiritual habits that stick.

What We Cover:

• What spiritual growth actually looks like for kids and teenagers.
• The four spiritual habits that help kids and students build a faith that lasts.
• Why every kid and teenager’s spiritual journey looks different — and that’s okay.

For More:
Visit growcurriculum.org/blog for more ministry ideas, tools, and the full show blog from this episode.

Host: Jason Sivewright

Be sure to subscribe for more practical ministry training, and leave us a review on Apple Podcasts!

• (00:10) - Welcome

In kids and youth ministry, procrastination can sneak up on us fast. Maybe you waited too long to plan a big event, realized mid-year you haven’t emailed parents in ages, or found yourself frantically Googling for a no-prep lesson on Saturday night. We’ve all been there — but it doesn’t have to be that way. In this episode, Danny walks through how one well-planned annual meeting can transform your year into something calmer, clearer, and more effective. 

What We Cover:

• Why it's so important to do an annual planning meeting every year for your ministry!.
• How to plan an entire year of ministry in 6 key areas: discipleship, teaching, weekly environments, events, volunteers, and families.
• How to use the Annual Strategy from Grow Curriculum in your ministry, for free!

For More: 

• Grab your Calendar Cards here.
• Visit growcurriculum.org/blog for more ministry ideas, tools, and the full show blog from this episode.

Host: Danny Sugimoto 

Be sure to subscribe for more practical training, and leave us a review on Apple Podcasts!

• (00:10) - Welcome

In this episode, Jason dives into one of the most practical (and fun) parts of kids and youth ministry: games. Games aren’t just a way to burn energy. They help kids and teenagers build friendships, connect with leaders, and create memories together. But designing great games takes more than grabbing the first idea that comes to mind. Jason walks through how to choose a theme, build with the right structure, and test your games so they actually work with your group.

What We Cover: 

• How to pick a theme for your kids and youth ministry games
• The four structures you can use to design fun and engaging games
• Why testing your games before you play them makes all the difference

For More:
Visit growcurriculum.org/blog for more ministry ideas, helpful tools, and the full show blog from this episode. 

Want even more ready-to-go games for your ministry? Head to the Grow Marketplace for a whole bunch of games!

Host: Jason Sivewright 

Be sure to subscribe for more practical training, and leave us a review on Apple Podcasts!

• (00:10) - Welcome

In this episode, we talk about one of the most practical ways you can build trust with families in your ministry: creating a Parent Handbook. Parents want to know what your ministry is about, how you disciple kids and teenagers, and what they can expect from you. A well-prepared Parent Handbook not only answers their questions but also gives them confidence in your vision and strategy. We’ll walk through what to include, why it matters, and how a clear, accessible handbook can transform the way you partner with parents. 

What We Cover:

• Why parents could use a handbook from your ministry!
• How a parent handbook can help you build trust with parents.
• The most important things to include in your parent handbook.

For More:
Visit growcurriculum.org/blog for more ministry ideas, helpful tools, and the full blog from this episode.

Want ready-made resources to help you connect with families? Check out our Parent Tools, which include a ready-to-use Parent Handbook and an Annual Parent Survey! It's just one of the resources ready for you over on the Grow Marketplace! 

Host: Danny Sugimoto

Be sure to subscribe for more practical training, and leave us a review on Apple Podcasts!

• (00:10) - Welcome

In this episode, Brooklyn unpacks why one-on-one time with your volunteers is one of the most powerful investments you can make in your ministry. These intentional conversations help you encourage, equip, and even troubleshoot with your team in a way that group meetings can’t. You’ll hear about the four main types of volunteer conversations, practical ways to prepare for each one, and how to approach them with humility, curiosity, and care. 

What We Cover: 

• The four types of one-on-one conversations every leader should have with volunteers
• How to prepare for a conversation so it’s both relational and strategic
• Questions to ask that help you evaluate your volunteers—and help them evaluate you
• Follow-up practices that strengthen relationships and keep volunteers engaged

For More:
Visit growcurriculum.org/blog for more kids and youth ministry ideas, helpful tools, and the full show blog from this episode.

Grab your free Volunteer Conversations Guide here

Want more resources to help you lead your team? Try Grow for free

Host: Brooklyn Lindsey

• (00:10) - Welcome

In this episode, Brooklyn shares what to do when attendance in your ministry isn’t where you hoped it would be. Whether it’s a random dip or a trend that’s got you worried, Brooklyn offers practical and honest steps to help you respond without panicking. You’ll walk away with encouragement, a new way to evaluate what’s really going on, and a fresh perspective on what healthy growth really looks like. 

What We Cover: 

• How to not panic when your attendance fluctuates!
• 7 problems that might be hurting your attendance.
• Why quick fixes can't create healthy, sustainable growth (and what can).

For More:
Visit growcurriculum.org/blog for more ministry ideas, helpful tools, and the full show blog from this episode.

Looking to strengthen the health of your ministry long-term?

Try Grow for free 

Host: Brooklyn Lindsey 

Be sure to subscribe for more practical training, and leave us a review on Apple Podcasts!

• (00:10) - Welcome

In this episode, Danny walks through one of the simplest and most impactful events you can host for families in your ministry—a Parent and Small Group Leader Breakfast. If you’ve ever struggled to get parents more involved or wanted to show them what small group leaders are really about, this is an event you’ll want to try. You’ll hear why this strategy works, how to plan it, and how to turn it into a yearly rhythm that strengthens your ministry.

What We Cover:

• Why it’s so hard to get parents involved—and what to do about it
• How to host a meaningful Parent & Small Group Leader Breakfast
• Tips to make your space (and your leaders!) feel welcoming and personal

For More:
Visit growcurriculum.org/blog for more ministry ideas, helpful tools, and the full show blog from this episode.
Looking for more family engagement events? Check out Episode 7 to hear about our Annual Family Strategy, including how to host an Open House and Parent Workshop.

Want to get started right now?
Try Grow for free!

Host: Danny Sugimoto

Be sure to subscribe for more practical training, and leave us a review on Apple Podcasts!

• (00:10) - Welcome

In this episode, Danny shares how you can better support kids and teenagers when they experience a crisis. Whether it’s something serious like abuse or something that feels serious to them (like a falling out with a friend), crises show up in all kinds of ways, and it’s our job to be ready. From recognizing what counts as a crisis to knowing when to refer for help, you’ll walk away with five clear steps you can take to care for the kids and teenagers you serve.

Content Warning: This episode includes sensitive topics like abuse, suicide, and self-harm. Please listen with care.

What We Cover:

• How to understand a crisis from a kid or teenager’s perspective
• 5 ways you can help them in a crisis situation
• 3 resources for more training, tools, and tips for making a safety plan

For More:

Visit growcurriculum.org/blog for more ministry ideas, helpful tools, and the full show blog from this episode. Here are a few resources mentioned:

• Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call or text 988
• Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741
• Self-Injury Outreach & Support: sioutreach.org

Need more help navigating tough conversations and crisis planning in your ministry? Grow Curriculum includes volunteer training guides, parent communication tools, and response strategies to help you lead with confidence. Try a free month at growcurriculum.org/free-trial.

Host: Danny Sugimoto

Be sure to subscribe for more practical training, and leave us a review on Apple Podcasts!

• (00:10) - Welcome

In this episode, Danny shares four essential tips to help small group leaders feel more confident and equipped—whether they’re leading kids, teenagers, or both. Being a small group leader is a big deal, but it doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. From understanding your role to building spiritual habits with your group, this episode is packed with practical advice for leading meaningful conversations and building lasting relationships. 

What We Cover: 

• Why small group leaders are so important to your ministry.
• How small group leaders lead and facilitate discipleship
• 4 helpful tips to become a better small group leader 

For More: 

Visit growcurriculum.org/blog for more ministry ideas and strategies. Check out the full blog posts: 
 

• 4 Tips for Leading Kids in Small Groups 
• 4 Tips for Leading Teenagers in Small Groups 

Looking to train your small group leaders or become a better one yourself? Grow Curriculum includes training materials, leader guides, discussion questions, and habit-building activities to help small groups thrive. Try a free month of Grow Curriculum at growcurriculum.org/free-trial. 

Host: Danny Sugimoto 

Be sure to subscribe for more practical training and leave us a review on Apple Podcasts! 

• (00:10) - Welcome

In this episode, Brooklyn shares how to market your church events beyond the basics. Getting the word out is critical for a great turnout, but traditional methods like flyers and church announcements can only go so far. By using inclusive language, leveraging digital tools, and engaging with local businesses, you can create more opportunities for people to connect with your ministry.

What We Cover:

• How inclusive language can expand your reach and make everyone feel welcome.
• Why social media, email, and texts are essential for effective event promotion.
• How partnering with local businesses can boost your event’s visibility.

For More:

Visit growcurriculum.org/blog for more ministry ideas and strategies. Check out the full blog post:
How to Nail Event Marketing: Your Comprehensive Guide to Success

Looking for a better way to engage your community? Grow Curriculum provides a full strategy for planning and promoting events, including communication templates, social media graphics, and volunteer coordination tools. Try a free month of Grow Curriculum at growcurriculum.org/free-trial.

Host: Brooklyn Lindsey

Be sure to subscribe for more practical training and leave us a review on Apple Podcasts!

• (00:10) - Welcome

In this episode, Dr. Linda Moon explores how we can make Scripture memorization an engaging and meaningful experience for kids. From simple verses like John 11:35 to creative techniques that keep kids motivated, we’re diving into practical strategies that help children internalize God’s Word in ways that stick.

What We Cover: 

• Why memorizing Scripture should be easier for kids.
• How to keep kids motivated to memorize Scripture.
• Fun and practical ways to help kids memorize Bible verses.

Read the full blog for more!

Bonus Resource: Want to make Scripture memorization even easier? Grow Curriculum provides engaging resources, memory verse activities, and worship songs to help kids connect with God’s Word. Try a free month of Grow Curriculum at growcurriculum.org/free-trial.

Host: Dr. Linda Moon

Be sure to subscribe for more practical training and leave us a review on Apple Podcasts!

• (00:10) - Welcome

In this episode, Danny shares how to plan parent meetings that families actually want to attend. Too often, parent meetings feel like a formality—packed with information but lacking connection. But when done right, these meetings can build trust, create opportunities for partnership, and help parents feel more engaged in their kids’ spiritual growth. Learn how to schedule, structure, and lead parent meetings that are effective, efficient, and valuable.

What We Cover:

• Why parent meetings matter (and when to have them).
• The four types of parent meetings every ministry needs.
• How to schedule meetings strategically so they serve a purpose.

For More:

Visit growcurriculum.org/blog for more ministry ideas and strategies. Check out the full blog post:

• How to Plan Parent Meetings Families Will Attend

Bonus Resource:

Looking for done-for-you parent meeting resources? Grow Curriculum provides a full strategy for connecting with families, including meeting guides, discussion questions, family events, and more. Try a free month of Grow Curriculum at growcurriculum.org/free-trial.

Host: Danny Sugimoto

Be sure to subscribe for more practical training and leave us a review on Apple Podcasts!

• (00:10) - Welcome

In this episode, Jason walks through a step-by-step guide to planning ministry events that are fun, meaningful, and stress-free. Whether you’re organizing a small gathering or a large-scale event, you’ll learn how to set clear goals, create engaging themes, and manage logistics to ensure everything runs smoothly. 

What We Cover:

• The four key phases of event planning.
• How to clarify your event’s goal and structure it for maximum impact.
• Creative ways to develop an engaging theme and immersive environment.
• And more!

For More:

Visit growcurriculum.org/blog for more ministry ideas and strategies. Check out the full blog posts:

• How to Plan a Youth Ministry Event
• How to Plan a Kids Ministry Event 

Bonus Resource:

Want to make event planning even easier? Grow Curriculum provides ready-to-go event guides, graphics, themes, and planning tools to help you create amazing experiences. Try a free month of Grow Curriculum at growcurriculum.org/free-trial. 

Host: Jason Sivewright 

Be sure to subscribe for more practical training and leave us a review on Apple Podcasts!

• (00:10) - Welcome

In this episode, Danny unpacks the importance of using icebreakers to connect with kids and teenagers in small groups. Whether you’re leading a group of energetic kids or reserved teenagers, you’ll learn how to break the ice, build trust, and ease your group into meaningful conversations.

What We Cover:

• Why icebreakers are essential for small group conversations.
• How icebreakers can pave the way for deeper discussions about faith.
• Six creative icebreakers to use with kids and teenagers.

For More:

Visit growcurriculum.org/blog for more tips and strategies, or try a free month of Grow Curriculum at growcurriculum.org/free-trial. Check out the full blog posts:
5 Icebreakers for Connecting with Kids
5 Icebreakers for Connecting with Teenagers

Bonus Resource:

Want to add more fun to your ministry? Check out the Grow Games App at games.stuffyoucanuse.org for hundreds of ready-to-play games that kids and teenagers will love!

Host: Danny Sugimoto

Be sure to subscribe for more practical training and leave us a review on Apple Podcasts!

• (00:10) - Welcome

In this episode, Danny walks through the 13 building blocks we use to help make teaching unforgettable and engaging. You’ll discover practical ways to help kids and teenagers grow spiritually while keeping them engaged and having fun.

What We Cover: 

• Why we should think strategically about how we approach teaching.
• The What? So What? Now What? Teaching structure.
• 13 different building blocks or elements that we use to help create engaging lessons for kids and teenagers.

For More: 
Visit growcurriculum.org/blog for more tips and strategies, or try a free month of Grow Curriculum at growcurriculum.org/free-trial. Check out the full blog posts for kids and teenagers.

Host: Danny Sugimoto

Be sure to subscribe for more practical training and leave us a review on Apple Podcasts!

• (00:10) - Welcome
• (01:31) - 13 Building Blocks for Teaching
• (09:24) - Wrap Up

What We Cover:

• Why debriefing your ministry events is essential for growth.
• Five key questions to ask after every event.
• How to celebrate wins, identify improvements, and engage your team.
• Practical tips for reviewing events with your volunteers and ministry families.

Visit growcurriculum.org/blog or try a free month of Grow Curriculum at growcurriculum.org/free-trial. And check out the full blog:
5 Questions to Ask After Every Ministry Event

Host: Jason Sivewright, Creative Lead

Be sure to subscribe for more practical training and leave us a review on Apple Podcasts!

• (00:10) - Welcome
• (01:53) - 5 Questions to Ask After Your Events

What We Cover:

• Why online ministry matters for kids and teenagers.
• Two formats for taking your children's ministry online.
• Three formats for taking your youth ministry online.

Key Points:

• Why Online Ministry Matters: Connecting with families digitally ensures flexibility and accessibility, meeting them wherever they are.
• Formats for Kids Ministry: Explore live and pre-recorded options for lessons, activities, and worship.
• Formats for Youth Ministry: Engage teenagers through live streams, interactive small groups, or on-demand content.
• Practical Steps: Tailor your approach to your group’s needs and ministry goals, and simplify the process with tools like Grow Curriculum.

For More:

Visit growcurriculum.org/blog or try a free month of Grow Curriculum at growcurriculum.org/free-trial. And check out the full blog:

• Taking Your Children's Ministry Online
• Taking Your Youth Ministry Online

Host: Danny Sugimoto

Be sure to subscribe for more practical training and leave us a review on Apple Podcasts!

• (00:10) - Welcome
• (01:48) - Taking Your Ministry Online
• (10:03) - Wrap Up

What We Cover:

• The two common mistakes ministries make when engaging parents.
• How to build trust with parents by reevaluating expectations.
• The seven ways to invest in families all year round.

Key Points:

• Two Common Mistakes: Forgetting to include parents or becoming frustrated when they don't meet ministry expectations. Elle suggests focusing on building trust instead.
• 7 Investment Strategies: Discover Grow Curriculum’s framework for family engagement.
• Annual Planning: With a structured approach, family ministry can be sustainable and impactful, creating lasting relationships and support for parents.

For More:

Visit growcurriculum.org/blog or try a free month of Grow Curriculum at growcurriculum.org/free-trial.

Host: Elle Campbell

Be sure to subscribe for more practical training and leave us a review on Apple Podcasts!

• (00:10) - Welcome
• (02:09) - An Annual Family Strategy
• (27:17) - Wrap Up

What We Cover:

• The real reason behind volunteer shortages and how to address the root issue.
• Why creating a culture volunteers want to be part of is essential.
• The seven ways to invest in your volunteers year-round.

Key Points:

• Recruiting, Training, Retaining: Each stage of volunteer management presents its own challenges. Learn how to shift from simply “recruiting” to creating a lasting culture.
• 7 Investment Strategies: Discover Grow Curriculum’s framework for sustaining volunteer engagement:
• Annual Planning: A clear yearly strategy with pre-scheduled volunteer events, meetings, and celebrations can transform your volunteer culture.

For More:

Visit growcurriculum.org/blog or try a free month of Grow Curriculum at growcurriculum.org/free-trial.

Host: Elle Campbell

Be sure to subscribe for more practical training and leave us a review on Apple Podcasts!

• (00:10) - Welcome
• (02:10) - An Annual Volunteer Strategy
• (05:42) - 7 Ways to Invest in Volunteers
• (26:38) - Wrap Up

What We Cover:

• Why it’s important to simplify your event strategy for greater impact.
• How to plan key events each year that help kids and teenagers connect with God, with each other, and with trusted adults.
• Practical tips for structuring an annual event strategy for both kids and youth ministries.

Key Points:

• Less is More: Simplify your events calendar by planning fewer events that are more intentional and impactful. Doing one event per quarter plus a few extras over the summer can create a bigger impact without overwhelming families, volunteers, or staff.
• Event Ideas: Host a fall kickoff event, a winter holiday event, a spring retreat, and a fun summer event. Each event should serve a strategic purpose—helping kids and teenagers connect with God, each other, and your ministry.
• Summer Bonus: Plan additional summer events like VBS for kids, summer camp for youth, and mission trips to encourage spiritual growth and build community.

Practical Tips:

• Fall Event: Plan a fun, relationship-building event like a Trunk-or-Treat for kids or a themed All-Nighter for teenagers.
• Winter Event: Create a holiday-themed event that helps kids and teenagers connect with their families and make lasting memories.
• Spring Event: Focus on helping kids and teenagers connect with God through meaningful experiences like retreats or Easter-focused activities.
• Summer Event: Wrap up the year with a big just-for-fun event, plus additional experiences like VBS, summer camp, or a mission trip.

Free Resources:

• Event Planning Guides: If you’re using Grow Curriculum, every event is pre-planned for you, complete with decor ideas, shopping lists, schedules, and more. And yes, it’s all free!

For more, visit growcurriculum.org/blog or try a free month of Grow Curriculum at growcurriculum.org/free-trial.

Host: Elle Campbell

Be sure to subscribe for more practical training and leave us a review on Apple Podcasts!

• (00:10) - Welcome
• (02:09) - An Annual Events Strategy
• (15:50) - Wrap Up

What We Cover:

• Why weekly environments matter in teaching kids and teenagers about Jesus.
• How to create engaging themes that complement your teaching and make learning fun.
• Practical strategies for creating physical, emotional, and relational environments where kids and teenagers feel safe and loved.

Key Points:

• Annual Planning: Plan your teaching strategy for the year first, and then create environments that complement each series. Themes make learning more memorable and fun, helping kids and teenagers connect with the lessons.
• Monthly Themes: Develop creative themes for each series (e.g., nature, music, superheroes) that align with what you're teaching. This helps capture attention and makes biblical stories more relatable.
• Weekly Environments: Beyond decorations and fun activities, ensure your weekly environment is physically, emotionally, and relationally safe. Kids and teenagers learn best when they feel comfortable and included.

Practical Tips:

• Room Design & Props: Use decorations, object lessons, and themed props to make your teaching environment more engaging.
• Crafts & Snacks: Incorporate themed crafts and fun snacks to reinforce Bible stories and make learning interactive.
• Music & Media: Use themed worship music, background playlists, and media to create an immersive experience.
• Safety & Inclusivity: Focus on creating an environment that feels safe and welcoming to everyone, including kids with disabilities and diverse backgrounds.

Resources:

• Environment Guide: If you're using Grow Curriculum, every teaching series comes with an Environment Guide, full of decor ideas, music, crafts, and more. Plus, you get editable graphics and media to help bring your theme to life!

For more, visit growcurriculum.org/blog or try a free month of Grow Curriculum at growcurriculum.org/free-trial.

Host: Elle Campbell

Be sure to subscribe for more practical training and leave us a review on Apple Podcasts!

• (00:10) - Welcome
• (02:00) - Weekly Environment Strategy
• (15:42) - Wrap Up

What We Cover:

• Why having a teaching strategy is essential to giving young people a holistic view of God.
• How to structure a 3-year scope and sequence for kids ministry, focusing on biblical stories.
• How to create a teaching strategy for youth ministry that addresses the specific needs and development of teenagers.

Key Points:

• Kids Ministry Strategy: Teaching the entire Bible to kids in a 3-year cycle, focusing on both Old and New Testament stories. Every six months, focus on either the New Testament or Old Testament stories.
• Youth Ministry Strategy: For teenagers, move beyond a chronological approach and focus on topics relevant to their lives, while helping them see the connections between different parts of Scripture.
• Annual, Monthly, and Weekly Teaching Strategy: Learn how to plan your teaching for a whole year, how to break it down month by month, and how to structure each lesson with specific learning objectives.

Free Resources:

• Scope and Sequence: Grow Curriculum provides a fully developed scope and sequence for both kids and teenagers, helping you plan your teaching for the whole year. Check it out, and steal what works for your ministry—even if you don’t use Grow!

For more, visit growcurriculum.org/blog or try a free month of Grow Curriculum at growcurriculum.org/free-trial.

Host: Elle Campbell

Be sure to subscribe for more practical training and leave us a review on Apple Podcasts!

• (00:08) - Welcome
• (02:17) - Why a Teaching Strategy?
• (04:29) - A 3-Year Cycle for Kids
• (07:37) - For Teenagers: More Than Chronological
• (10:57) - How to Kids Teach Every Year
• (13:53) - How to Teach Teenagers Every Year
• (23:20) - How to Teach Every Month
• (25:55) - How to Teach Every Week
• (31:26) - Wrap Up

What We Cover:

• Why a discipleship strategy is crucial for spiritual growth.
• How Grow's 4 spiritual habits can be used to measure and encourage spiritual growth for kids, teens, and adults.
• A step-by-step guide to creating an annual discipleship strategy for your ministry.

Key Points:

1. Spiritual Habits: Grow’s 4 key habits are foundational—spend time with God, spend time with others, use your gifts, and share your story.
2. Quarterly Strategy: Divide your ministry year into quarters, each focusing on one of the spiritual habits, and build activities around them.
3. Practical Tips: Get actionable ideas for implementing spiritual habits in small groups, special events, or family activities.
4. Free Resources: Learn how to "steal" Grow's discipleship strategy—even if you don’t use our curriculum!

For more, visit growcurriculum.org/blog or try a free month of Grow Curriculum at growcurriculum.org/free-trial.

Host: Elle Campbell

Be sure to subscribe for more practical training and leave us a review on Apple Podcasts! 

• (00:09) - Welcome
• (02:02) - Spiritual Habits
• (09:05) - A Discipleship Strategy
• (15:01) - Wrap Up

What We Cover:

• Why your kids or youth ministry needs a strategy.
• An overview of the Grow strategy and how it works.
• How to use Grow’s annual strategy in your ministry for free!

Key Points:

1. Ministry Strategy vs. Goals: Understand the difference between goals and an actionable strategy.
2. Grow’s 4 Spiritual Habits: Learn how spend time with God, spend time with others, use your gifts, and share your story form the foundation for a discipleship strategy.
3. Annual Strategy in 7 Areas: Elle introduces Grow's strategy, which covers discipleship, teaching, environments, events, volunteers, families, and annual planning.
4. Practical Tools: Learn how to put these ideas on your ministry calendar and make a bigger impact with less stress.

For more, visit growcurriculum.org/blog or try a free month of Grow Curriculum at growcurriculum.org/free-trial.

Host: Elle Campbell

Be sure to subscribe for more practical training and leave us a review on Apple Podcasts! 

• (00:10) - Welcome
• (02:03) - Grow's Annual Strategy
• (04:12) - Discipleship Strategy
• (06:41) - Teaching Strategy
• (09:55) - Environments Strategy
• (11:43) - Events Strategy
• (13:17) - Family Strategy
• (15:30) - Volunteer Strategy
• (17:15) - Annual Planning Strategy
• (19:03) - Wrap Up

Each week, expect short, insightful episodes designed to help you grow your ministry, no matter the age group you work with. And don’t forget, you can find transcripts for every episode at growcurriculum.org/blog. So grab your notebook or notes app, and let’s get started!

Looking for more? Visit growcurriculum.org for more resources and tools to make your ministry even better.