How Do I Plan a Vacation Bible School?

By Alice Nichols

Vacation Bible School is a great way to get kids excited about learning more about the Bible while also having fun. It can be a big undertaking to plan and execute, but with some careful thought and preparation, it can be a rewarding experience for everyone involved. Here are some steps to help you plan your Vacation Bible School:

Step 1: Determine Your Theme

The first step in planning your Vacation Bible School is to decide on a theme. Your theme will set the tone for the entire event and should be something that will resonate with your audience.

Some popular themes include “Under the Sea,” “Wilderness Adventure,” and “Superheroes of the Bible.” Once you have chosen your theme, you can start thinking about decorations, activities, and lessons that will tie into it.

Step 2: Set Your Date and Time

Once you have your theme in mind, it’s time to choose when and where your Vacation Bible School will take place. Consider scheduling it during the summer months when kids are out of school and have more free time.

Also, think about whether you want to hold it during the day or in the evening. Make sure to choose a location that is easily accessible for families.

Step 3: Recruit Volunteers

A successful Vacation Bible School requires a team of dedicated volunteers who are willing to help with everything from planning activities to supervising children. Reach out to members of your church community or other local organizations to see who might be interested in helping out.

Step 4: Plan Your Activities

Now it’s time to start planning your activities! Think about what kinds of games, crafts, and lessons will tie into your theme. You can also incorporate music, drama, or even science experiments into your program.

  • Games: Choose games that are fun and engaging for kids of all ages. For example, if your theme is “Under the Sea,” you could have a relay race where kids have to “swim” across the room while carrying a beach ball between their legs.
  • Crafts: Crafts are a great way to help kids connect with the Bible stories they are learning about.

    For example, if your theme is “Wilderness Adventure,” you could have kids make their own binoculars out of toilet paper rolls and decorate them with stickers or paint.

  • Lessons: Your lessons should tie into your theme and be age-appropriate for your audience. Use visual aids like props or pictures to help illustrate the points you are making.

Step 5: Promote Your Event

Once you have everything planned out, it’s time to start promoting your event! Use social media, flyers, and word of mouth to spread the word about your Vacation Bible School. Make sure to include important details like the date, time, location, and theme.

Final Thoughts

Planning a Vacation Bible School can be a lot of work, but it can also be incredibly rewarding. Remember to keep your theme in mind throughout the planning process and focus on creating activities that are both fun and educational. With some careful planning and preparation, your Vacation Bible School is sure to be a success!