Sunday School Report Card

Perhaps you're thrilled with your church's Sunday school program. Or maybe you've wondered how to help it be even better. The following questions can help your children's ministries improve their weak spots and maximize their strengths.

For each of the 15 statements below, give an A through F grade. You could also share this list with your church's Christian Education director or Sunday–school superintendent for use as an evaluation tool so that all parents can offer feedback for the leaders of children's ministries.

My church:

[ ] Understands the stages of development and creates a classroom environment appropriate for my child's age group or grade level.

[ ] Recruits the best qualified and appropriately gifted people to serve as teachers.

[ ] Screens, equips, and provides training for teachers and other workers to ensure my child's safety and security.

[ ] Gives teachers resources, equipment, and other tools appropriate for my child's age or grade level.

[ ] Teaches that the Bible is God's Word and holds it up as the true guide for life; helps my child apply the Bible and its lessons in practical ways.

[ ] Teaches age–appropriate material about basic doctrines (such as baptism, communion, salvation, giving, service to others, etc.) in a manner consistent with our church's beliefs.

[ ] Teaches that God gives all individuals—including children—spiritual gifts for serving one another and to build up the church; provides meaningful opportunities for children to use their gifts in serving others.

[ ] Provides a worship time that reflects the styles and values of my church.

[ ] Teaches the importance of worshipping God individually and together at church.

[ ] Stresses the importance of discipleship by encouraging my child to grow closer to God, to truthfully live more like Jesus, and to help others do the same.

[ ] Encourages my child to pray individually and also offers group prayer times.

[ ] Provides times when my child and others can make a personal commitment to Jesus without pressure from peers or teachers.

[ ] Spends time praying for unchurched friends and family.

[ ] Provides me with tools to reinforce lessons throughout the week.

Naturally, no church can do all of this perfectly, but these questions can offer a great starting place for making your church's children's programs a vital part of your Christian community.

Brad Lewis, a member of the CPT Advisory Board, lives with his wife and two sons in Colorado Springs.

Been There? Do This

Even if your church offers a Sunday school class on parenting or other intentional meeting times for moms and dads, there can never be too many opportunities for parents to come together for mutual prayer, support, and encouragement. This can be especially true for parents with particular struggles, such as a special needs child or a family crisis. Consider coordinating parenting support groups for:

Parents of teens abusing alcohol or drugs.
Parents of children with ADD/ADHD.
Single parents.
Step–families/blended families.
Parents of children with disabilities.
Homeschooling parents.
Grandparents in parenting roles.
Adoptive/foster families.
Parents with discipline challenges.
First–time parents.
Grieving families.
Mothers experiencing postpartum depression.

The goal isn't necessarily to create a large group. If even just a few people meet together, you can focus on developing transparent relationships with people who can enter into your life as a parent.

Read more articles that highlight writing by Christian women at ChristianityToday.com/Women