JamieDoyle(dot)com

Ok – So, Mr. Carrey isn’t holding up his thumb – but this is Rules of Thumb 7 – count the fingers homey!

Here we go: Try to use volunteers as much as possible when teaching – I mean, hey, they’re right there in the room with you… what a great visual aid! Kids always pay attention to their peers – it will also create an attention-getter.

Using helpers from the audience gives others a chance to participate in the lesson. I try to find something that a volunteer could do – even if the lesson doesn’t call for it. here are a few suggestions:

1. Play the part of a charecter in a story.
2. Hold some of the object, pictures, signs…
3. Dress up in garb that relates to the objects (Doctor, Scientist, Hockey Player, Cop, Professional Wrestler, etc).
4. Demonstrate a skill that relates to the lesson (jump rope, sing, play an instrument, make strange noises, quote a verse, recite the books of the Bible, sports related skills – you get the idea) – this could be completly impromptu.
5. Read a Bible verse related to the lesson – race someone else to look up the verse and read it.
6. Interview them like a reporter.

If your lesson doesn’t need volunteers or you cannot think of a way to involove indvidules or a small group of kids, then try to get the entire crowd involved by repeating phrases after you or mimicking actions that are relevant to the lesson – make your lessons great!