VBS MIXED-AGE GROUPS
Why mixed-age groups?
Kingdom Rock VBS may be a little different than what you are used to. Elementary kids will be in mixed-age groups with other children going grades 1-5 (ages 4-5 will be mixed groups for the preschool portion of Kingdom Rock). These small groups, called Crews, are lead by adults who love children and love God.
The most important factor in making this program successful is your attitude. If your child has doubts, reassure him or her that this is a great opportunity to try something new. Your support will speak volumes to the children we are serving.
Mixed-age Crews are an important part of Kingdom Rock for four BIG reasons:
1. Kids develop new friendships. Studies show that children learn as much or more when they are linked with kids of different ages. Many of us assume that age-based groups are the way to go because that is our only experience. Encourage your child to try something different. He or she might be surprised!
2. Older kids shine! Parents are continually surprised that after a few days of VBS, their older children LOVE this new-found role. Suddenly, they are the "cool" big kid with younger children looking up to them. Plus, they are serving and demonstrating Christ's love when they help the younger kids.
3. Younger kids are cared for. Sky is carefully designed for multi-age groups. That means games are noncompetitive, team-building activities. In fact, many games are designed to highlight the importance of small kids.
4. Bible lessons are more memorable. Since Sky doesn't rely on traditional teaching methods (fill-in-the-blank puzzles or word searches), kids experience Bible stories in powerful, life-changing ways.Then, Crew Leaders gather with the kids for small group discussion with questions that apply to every child but reach them at different levels. For example, when a Crew Leader asks, "When are you glad that God watches over you?" A younger child might respond, "During a scary storm." An older child with more experience with life's challenges may say, "When my friends say mean things."
Millions of children have experienced the multi-age "family" approach with surprise and delight at the outcome.
