How Do I Start a Vacation Bible School?

By Michael Ferguson

If you’re thinking about starting a Vacation Bible School, also known as VBS, you’re in for a fun and rewarding experience! VBS is a great way to bring kids together and teach them about God’s love through engaging activities, games, and lessons. Here are some steps you can take to get started:

Step 1: Choose a Theme

Choosing a theme is one of the most important parts of starting a VBS. The theme will set the tone for the entire event and help you plan activities and lessons. Some popular themes include “Under the Sea,” “Wilderness Adventure,” and “Superheroes of the Bible.”

Step 2: Recruit Volunteers

VBS requires a lot of volunteers to make it successful. You’ll need teachers, helpers, game leaders, craft leaders, snack providers, and more.

Start by asking members of your church if they’re interested in volunteering. You can also reach out to local youth groups or organizations that are looking for service opportunities.

Step 3: Set a Date and Time

Choose a date and time that works for most families in your church or community. Keep in mind that VBS usually lasts for five days and runs for about 2-3 hours each day.

Step 4: Plan Activities

Planning activities is where the real fun begins! Use your theme to guide your activity planning. For example, if your theme is “Under the Sea,” plan activities like making sand art or playing water games.

  • Arts & Crafts – Create themed arts & crafts projects that children can take home with them.
  • Songs & Games – Incorporate music into your lessons with fun songs that kids can sing along to.
  • Bible Lessons – Teach children about different Bible stories and how they relate to the theme.
  • Snacks – Plan simple snacks that are easy to make and relate to the theme. For example, if your theme is “Wilderness Adventure,” you could make trail mix.

Step 5: Promote Your VBS

Promoting your VBS is key to getting kids excited about attending. Use social media, church bulletins, and flyers to spread the word.

Conclusion:

Starting a Vacation Bible School can be a lot of work, but it’s also a lot of fun! By following these steps and using your creativity, you can create a memorable experience for all the children who attend. Remember to keep God at the center of everything you do and have fun!