VBS Teacher's Methods & Materials for Vacation Bible School

People generally attend Vacation Bible School with the expectation of a fun time. Don’t expect students to come to the Bible class segment from an activity like games or recreation and sit glued to their chairs with eyes fastened on the teacher. It too should be fun, exciting, and challenging. No dull lectures or boring stories should be allowed in Vacation Bible School. A VBS teacher’s methods and materials will tend to make the difference. Teaching comes to life through the use of engaging visuals and creative methodology.

Key Words for Teachers of Vacation Bible School Classes

Already short attention spans can become even more of an issue in a “what’s next” atmosphere. Whether in anticipation of games, snacks, crafts, etc., or just coming in from such activities, students need to be engaged to keep their attention. While the following words should be part of any Bible teaching, they become especially key words for teachers in VBS:

active participation
student-oriented methods
collaborative interaction

Tips to Guide a VBS Teacher’s Methods and Materials

At minimum, follow the suggestions in the teacher’s manual. Major curriculum publishers of VBS materials tend to design lessons conducive to a fun-filled atmosphere. This can be difficult for teachers who might be taken out of their comfort zones but is vital to keeping students’ attention. Be willing to try a new approach to teaching.

Don’t be afraid to get creative in coming up with some your own ideas if they enhance the lesson and don’t take away from the truths to be learned. Perhaps you may just need to tweak the curriculum a bit to adapt it better to your particular setting and students.

Use the visuals provided with the curriculum but also think through ways you can make the lesson even more visual. Perhaps your church can’t afford some of the supplemental teaching materials. Think through how you can replicate the ideas with your own resources. You may need to think outside of the box. And, don’t forget to use your own body and voice in animated ways. A dull teacher can turn an otherwise exciting lesson into a boring experience.

Training Resources:

The following training resources aren’t specifically geared to the VBS setting but could prove useful for teachers who might seek to enhance the methods and materials they use.

Check out the Tips for Choosing & Using Audiovisuals Worksheet.