St. James Kids
September
@Home edition
You can't influence someone you don't know.
Kids know more about you than you know about them.

People are wired to pay closer attention to someone who has power over their world. Think about it. You know more about the President than he knows about you. As kids grow up, they depend on the adults in their world to get food, take them places and pay for their stuff.

It just makes sense for them to pay attention to what you like (so they can sweet talk you later) or listen to what you dislike (so they don't accidentally make you mad.)

Probably why marketing execs spend 15% of their budgets on target audience.

Kids get this intuitively. They want to have influence with you, so it's in their nature to study you. As an adult, you don't need kids they way they need you. You have to be far more intentional about knowing them if you want to have influence.

If you're still reading, you care about the future of kids. BUT, if you want to shape their future, they need to know they matter to you.

As Rita Pierson reminds us above, "Kids don't learn from people they don't like."

It's also true that kids don't learn from people who don't like them. They will never feel like you like them if you don't know them. What we don't know will ultimately sabotage our mission.

As we get "Ready to Launch" into a new school year and new routines, consider getting to know some of your kids peers. Message me to help lead Sunday school, or help with Tween Time or our newest venture for kids K-2nd, AMP. or if you have a different or new idea.

You won't have to create lessons. No, just get to know kids.

You'll find yourself pretending, ensconced in fantasy play, and talking about imaginary experiences. You'll find yourself in a battle for your attention, your focus & your approval. You'll find kids excited about what you are excited about. You'll find kids that can’t wait to show you how strong, smart or fast they are.
 
What happens in Tween Time, or Kindergarten Small group on Sunday morning, may be just as important as what happens in "Big Church," but I'm not so worried about what's important as I am as what's impactful.

It's my joy to serve you and your family!
Sean Dunbar
Do you know the importance of connecting kids with caring adults to help create an everyday faith?

Chances are, it’s also at least a part of your purpose...
ATTN: 3rd - 5th GRADERS
TWEEN TIME STARTS SEPTEMBER 8th
6:00 - 7:30 on the Mountaintop
Need parents to help me lead Tween time!
Most Fun you'll ever have serving in church!
Starts 9/8.
Introducing AMP
Arts. Music. Play.
Wednesdays, 6-7;30 pm
Starts 9/22.
Spread the word, were back!

Starts 9/26. 4pm. Great Hall
On the horizon... 
SAVE THE DATE:
Biblical Based.
UMC Theology.
Conversation Starter.
December 3-5, 2021
5th & 6th Grade
UPWARD CANCELLED
We were looking forward to hearing all the laughter and buzz of families gathered in the CLC on Saturday mornings. I am devastated to announce that after great consideration, St. James Covid leadership has decided cancelling Upward Sports this fall is in the best interest for the health and safety of our staff, members, and community. We miss you, and we’re looking forward to a time when we can connect in person again. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to contact us.
SEPTEMBER
ELEMENTARY THEME Vision Casting
God took the initiative by sending Jesus to show us how much He loves us and fix the relationship between us. When we see a need and choose to do something about it, we reflect God’s image in us. Through our initiative, others can see the reality of God’s love for them.

As kids discover more about how we can reflect God’s character through taking initiative, they’ll spend the month studying the life of Nehemiah. Nehemiah’s life is a perfect example of someone who heard about a need, decided to check it out, trusted God, and dropped everything to finish the project. We can’t wait to see how God helps your kids discover how they can show initiative in their lives.
SEPTEMBER
PRESCHOOL THEME Vision Casting
Many of us remember a special toy or plush friend from our Toy Box that gave us comfort and companionship when we needed it. It’s part of growing up. We were made to want someone with us. And that Someone is Who we will be talking about this month. He is the only One who can truly always be with us.

We will say countless times this month, “God is always with me.” We want our preschoolers to believe it with all of their hearts. With this truth as a foundation, they can be brave and wise. They can have courage and strength.

Then, when the times comes that their favorite toy, blanket, or pillow cannot be with them, they will know that there is Someone who loves them and will always be with them. No matter where they go or what they do God is always with them . . . and you.

Register at www.stjameslr.org
in the menu bar at top of page


VIRTUAL SUNDAY SCHOOL

The Parent Cue App cues you to have simple and meaningful faith-moments with your kid that will fit seamlessly into the daily rhythm of your life. 
The secret to being the parent you want to be is to pay attention to your daily and weekly rhythm. Chances are, your family has a rhythm that’s entirely your own. Maybe you sing in the morning. Maybe no one speaks before 11am. Every family is unique! Each week, the parent cue app will send “cues” to help you make the most of some of your typical family moments: Like morning time, drive time, meal time, or bedtime. It’s okay if one of these times isn’t a good fit for you. Simply use whatever works in your family routine, and then use it . . . routinely.
We are here for you and with you.

Peace be with you!

Sean Dunbar
Director of Children’s Ministry
St. James UMC
321 Pleasant Valley Dr.
Little Rock, AR 72212
(o) 501.217.6744
(c) 501.351.1496
Facebook: stjameslrkids
Instagram: @stjameskids