Preparing for Vacation Bible School?

Dear Church Leaders, 
 
By now, we hope your church has had some discussion about your annual VBS  and what that might look like. We wanted to send out a list of things to consider as you plan a virtual VBS and for the process of reopening Sunday School in the new program year. 
 
Here are some preliminary questions or things to think about as you move forward:
 
Do you know the CDC Guidelines as they might apply to your gathering in-person for Sunday School? If continuing to meet online or for virtual VBS/youth, have you checked the social media and online guidelines from the Diocese of Oklahoma for children and youth? 

Safety in your congregation for in-person gatherings with children/youth - Will the children need to wear face masks? What room space will you need? What will the cleaning procedures be? 

Have you talked to your parents? What do they think they are able to do in terms of commitment? What would be their expectations? How are they feeling? 

Have you given yourself permission to skip VBS or re-vision what it may look like? What about changing your model for Sunday School. You have permission to take it easy on yourself, your families, and the activities you offer! 

You may be considering a virtual VBS program/Sunday School - what model are you planning on? Meeting together in Zoom? Pre-recording? We recommend pre-recording content that is accessible for families on their own time schedule but also incorporating some level of meeting together for worship or social time. 

Do you usually write your own VBS? Skip it this year! There are quite a few resources available and set out below.

Resources for materials:
 
Please remember where you get your curriculum matters! Curriculums may look good on the surface but the theology and language of faith is troublesome once you have purchased it. Please be careful and if you are unsure about recommended companies or specific curriculums please contact Sabrina Evans or Kate Huston.
 
Children’s Story Books – Pick your own story and tie it into scripture.
 
The Very Best Day written by Roger Hutchison is designed to work with The Way of Love. Download the lesson plan that includes discussion questions and activities for churches and families. A selection of coloring pages from the book are also available.

COMPASSION CAMP is centered on compassion for others, us, and the world. This at-home/virtual VBS is geared toward K-5th graders, plus activities specifically for preschool-age children.