My favourite links
Some incredible folks and resources have helped me in my teaching journey.
Here's a list of my favourites:
The Bible Project
A deep understanding of the Biblical story is essential for any good lesson - even when teaching kids! We need to consider the historical background, biblical context, author's perspective, various interpretations and more. Thankfully the crew over at the Bible project makes learning and study easy. Their videos, podcasts and articles are always at the top of my resource list when I start preparing to teach a new story.
Key Ministry
The point of children's ministry is to show the great big welcome of God to every child. Every kid requires our intentional thought, connection and care. Key Ministry promotes meaningful connection between churches and families of kids with disabilities for the purpose of making disciples of Jesus Christ. Follow them on Instagram as well for regular dialogue and posts about inclusion.
Meredith Miller
A friend recommended this author to me and said "I think she may be a kindred spirit." Reading her book felt like the best kind of coffee visit with a friend. I've since followed her substack newsletter, love her Great Big Bible Story Walkthrough (particularly love her Commentary & Context pages) and continue to find her offering fresh perspective, wisdom, encouragement and easy to use resources for faith development.
Bible Gateway
A well known resource that gives me the Bible constantly at my fingertips! As a teacher, I most appreciate the ease of reading multiple translations when studying a story and sharing it with kids. Hearing different words helps me pay attention. My go-to translations include NIV (it's the words from my childhood), NRSVUE, International Children's Bible and The Message.
rotation.org
I'm not currently leading a true rotation ministry but this approach has influenced so much of how I teach. You can read more about my experience with rotation ministry in my diary. This site provides a ton of ideas and lesson plans. Many free and extras available for a very low membership fee. This site is volunteer run, filled with a dedicated crew of people who care for kids and their faith journey and also operates as a public forum with some great chat board.