 |
 |
      |
CHILDREN'S MINISTRY
Do You Need a Preschool Support Committee?
by Sharon White
Does your church have trouble coordinating its preschool activities? Is there confusion about what is expected of teachers and workers in the preschool department? Does the preschool department need a central person or group responsible for ordering supplies, providing training, organizing fellowships, etc.? If the answer to these questions is “yes,” your church may benefit by forming a Preschool Support Committee. The duties of such a committee vary among churches, and should be determined when the committee is being formed. Responsibilities may include:
Coordinate all church preschool activities—Most churches have more than one preschool class meeting in the same room at different times. A preschool support committee can keep schedules running smoothly through proper planning and organization.
Prepare and distribute preschool guidelines/policies—A written set of guidelines/policies is crucial for organization. Each church needs to carefully study and choose guidelines/policies that best fit its particular program. If you know of any churches with strong preschool departments, call to see if you may obtain copies of their guidelines/
policies. If a policy is in use and available, you may be able to adapt it to fit your particular program. Include a section in your guidelines addressing hygiene, sanitation, and care concerning preschoolers with contagious diseases.
Order supplies—A committee or sub-committee can select and order supplies. Normally bulk buying is less expensive. Also purchasing by one central group can decreases duplication.
Select and train paid preschool workers—Some churches employ preschool workers. Often the committee who helps select these workers train them.
Provide a forum for discussion and problem solving of preschool issues—An organized committee can create an appropriate place to deal with problems and difficulties arising in the preschool department.
Plan and organize parent/teacher/child fellowships—Preschool programs benefit from increased communication and fellowship between children, parents, and teachers. Many churches plan fellowships with families and teachers to give the opportunity to get to know each other and discuss items of interest. These fellowships could include activities or entertainment. Also, consider hosting a teacher appreciation activity to boost morale and instill appreciation.
Provide training and educational opportunities for parents and teachers—This function could include obtaining speakers/teachers for in-church training or publicizing training opportunities away from the church.
As you form a Preschool Support Committee, it is best to represent as many areas and ages as possible. Of course staff should be members, but include representatives from Sunday school, music, missions, and any other organized activity your church offers, including weekday education if applicable. Parents of preschoolers should also be invited as members. Meet monthly or quarterly, or as often as necessary.
As with all church committees, the duties and responsibilities given to the Preschool Support Committee should be determined by the needs of the church. When the committee has the best interests of preschoolers at heart, its efforts will continue to improve the preschool department, which in turn will benefit the children.
|
|
|
|
