Maslow did us a great service when he created his heirarchy of needs. No matter your age, at our core, there are certain things we all need.  Kids are no different. They need certain things too.

I recently sat down and thought about some things kids need, specifically from a ministry perspective, but several of the points are very valid in a school education setting, as well as a home setting.

After much conversation, thought, prayer and time I came up with this:  In your ministry, kids need GRAPES. I am all for kids eating more fresh fruit, but that is not what I am talking about when I say kids need more GRAPES. 

 

Kids need GRAPES. Here are 6 things kids need

• God

God and His word have to be the base of your ministry.  If He is not, anything you do will be in vain.

• Relationship

Everyone needs to feel loved, especially your kids.  If they know you care for them, they will be open to hear what you say.  A relationship gives you a voice to speak into the lives of your kids and their families.

• Acquire knowledge

Your kids need to learn.  Part of ministry is teaching your kids about God and His love for them. If your kids aren’t learning, perhaps you should reevaluate what you are doing.

• Prayer

You need to be praying for your kids.  They need it.  They have very real problems and issues, just like adults. They also need to learn how to pray on their own as well. Here is some more info on how to teach your kids about prayer.

• Entertainment

Kids need to have fun.  The truth is we live in a ‘Disney’ world, and they are used to a certain standard of fun.  Fun is not the ultimate goal, but it is a necessary vehicle to carry your message.  A bored kid is an unhappy kid.

• Safety  

Kids need to feel safe.  That  includes a safe physical as well as a safe emotional environment.  Do all you can to provide a safe place.

 

So there you have it.  Kids need GRAPES.  In no particular order, kids need: God, Relationship, Acquire Knowledge, Prayer, Entertainment, Safety.

So what do you think? What do your kids need? What did I forget? 

 

Are you  looking for more great family devotion resources? Check out an Amazon #1 best selling children’s ministry book: Got Fruit: a guide to family devotions based on the fruit of the spirit.

Your child’s relationship with God must extend beyond Sunday morning. Parents have to take a leading role in the discipleship of their kids. Based on the Fruit of the Spirit, Got Fruit? is an effective tool to help parents disciple their children. If you are looking for help with your family devotion time, Got Fruit? is for you! Through this devotional you will be guided through discussions that build on each of the 9 fruits of the spirit. Each of the 9 devotionals include bible passages that highlight the highlighted fruit as well as a few related thoughts. Also included is a series of discussion questions that will help you guide your children in a conversation to bring truth and understanding. This short devotional is a perfect tool to guide you as you disciple your children into a deeper relationship and understanding with God.