multi age classroom

Tips for Teachers of Multi-age Classes

General Tips: Ask yourself “How can I make this activity more challenging/simplified?” Use a “buddy system” – pair older ages with younger ages. Prepare the activity at different stages to match the abilities of the learners. Use art as a way to encourage youngsters to express their ideas. Use curriculum matching the age of the majority of the enrolled children….

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water table

Discipline and Forgiveness

I was leading a conference in Tyler TX about guiding behavior in the preschool classroom.  I set the scene with Cameron, an expressive three year old coming in the room and playing at the water table when suddenly he began splashing the water. I explained to this room of experienced teachers the correct way to deal with the situation and…

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Student Leader Application

Each summer I am rounding up workers for different events and when enlisting those workers I want to give consideration to youth volunteers or as they prefer student volunteers.  I have had some youth workers that were awesome and were able to lead Bible studies, guide children in VBS crafts, give an impressive devotion at camp and most could even…

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Podcast: Millennial Parents with Allison Kizzia

In this episode of Mr Marks Classroom Podcast we will hear from Allison Kizzia, Childhood Ministry Specialist for the Arkansas Baptist Convention, concerning ministry with Millennial Parents.

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spring game mat

Spring Activity for Giant Game Floor Mat

It is time to “think spring” and prepare a new game for the Giant Game Floor Mat. The game mat can be used during springtime to remind boys and girls of God’s plan for the seasons. Use the game mat in learning centers and in group time. Spread the game mat on the floor or hang on the wall using…

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You are Making a Difference!

Some of you might already know this story but it still reminds me of the importance of leading children to Christ and the short time we have together.  I picked up Nathan and Nicholas for Bible Drill on Wednesdays.  These twin boys were quick to tell me that they enjoyed going to the church and their dad was in jail. …

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spring play dough

Spring Play Dough Tipsheet

  Another season—another idea for play dough: Spring Play Dough. After experimenting with using powdered tempera to add color to the basic play dough recipe, the next plan was to create springtime colors. Initiate conversation about springtime by reading Psalm 74:17—God made summer and winter. Comment that God also made spring and fall. Talk About the current season—spring.   Supplies for Spring…

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girl ipod

How Parents Get Robbed

Our drive to the church on Sundays and Wednesdays was always a guaranteed time of meaningful conversation.  Since our mealtimes together are fewer at least we still had the time in the car for meaningful conversation.  We talk, laugh and practice our Bible Drill verses, but not now.   My preteen daughter always joined in our talk time or reviewing…

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New Logo

Heart Of the Child Conference

Only 5 More Days to Register for the Heart of the Child Conference   Preschool & Children’s Leadership Conference       Click Here to Register Along with over 40 faculty who are experts in the area of Childhood Ministry this years conference will feature: Thom Rainer:  President and CEO of LifeWay Christian Resources. Jim Wideman:  Internationally recognized voice in children’s and family ministry….

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Community Questions: Building Relationships With Kids

Evaluate if your preschoolers through preteen age children are absent from your presence as well as your conversations.  Maybe it’s because of our choice to work later, kick back in the recliner and watch all the shows we have recorded or steal away with our computer or iphone as you sit and enjoy the wireless router recently installed.  As I…

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