Course Summary

This graduate course unit aims to develop students’ understanding of principles underlying ministry to children and their capacity to apply them in a range of practical settings.

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Learning Outcomes

At the end of this unit students will be able to:

1. Articulate an advanced understanding of the theory and concepts of children’s ministry as a missional activity of the local Church

2. Evaluate the established theories of the learning characteristics, overall development and appropriate stages of faith of children, with reference to specific ministry contexts

3. Use and evaluate a variety of contemporary resources and techniques to nurture, manage, and ensure safety in children’s ministry in a range of congregational and community settings

4. Critically analyse a variety of children’s ministry professional practices and approaches in congregational and community settings

  5. Develop and evaluate effective programs for implementation in children’s ministry in their

      specific context

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Course Content

1. Biblical, theological and historical perspectives on Christian ministry with children

2. The learning and developmental characteristics of children

3. Ministry to children in relation to ministry to families and churches

4. Faith development in children

5. Mission with children – in congregational and community settings

6. Behaviour management and discipline

7. Ethical and legal issues in working with children.