Children’s work

HOW TO RUN CHILDREN’S CLUBS AND MEETINGS
By Steven Walker
Day One Publications. 141 pages. £7.00
ISBN 978-1-84625-060-6

This book is written for any one doing children’s work, or contemplating getting involved. The writer doesn’t just write about the normal mix of ideas with do’s and don’ts, he also includes thoughts on how to function as a team, and how to look after your own spiritual walk within that team. All of this is glued together with appropriate background theology, something I warmly applaud.

In all this theology though, I found it worrying that the Holy Spirit’s role in conversion and conviction of sin was not mentioned at all; hidden in the background maybe, but not mentioned.

The chapters on preparation of lessons, discipline, and child protection are great, although, as the author points out, some of the child protection information is already out of date. But I thoroughly endorse the heart and reasoning behind these chapters.

As I read, I was struck by the flashes of inspiration that contrasted with some areas that seemed a little dated in wording and approach. This was especially true in the chapter on worship. I agree with the heart behind the chapter – good theology and a great tune is imperative, but with so much good children’s music out there, surely the only reason to write your own is if God has given you the gift to do so.

As someone who often works with very street-wise children who have no church back ground at all, I was struck by the fact that there were quite a few ideas and approaches to children’s work I couldn’t use.

If your church works mainly with churched children, then this will be a good resource, but I would suggest you look much further afield than just his recommended material — there is a lot of good stuff out there!

Kay Morgan-Gurr,

Joint General Director of Children Worldwide with husband Steve;

a member of Knighton Evangelical Free Church, Leicester