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DIRECTOR GUIDE

Director Guide

Contributors: Melanie Heuiser-Hill, Mary Lindberg, Kimberly Leetch, Venita MacGorman, Tera Michelson, Erin Moore, Christy Olson, Cynthia Fairman Paulson, Justin Rimbo, Cheryl Stearns

Editorial Team: Erin Davis, Jill Carroll Lafferty, Julie O’Brien, Dawn Rundman, Barbara S. Wilson

Design Team: Eileen K. Engebretson, Tory Herman, Alisha Lofgren, Ivy Palmer Skrade

Illustrator: Tory Herman

Unless marked otherwise, scripture quotations are from the New Revised Standard Version Bible, copyright © 1989 by the Division of Christian Education of the National Council of the Churches of Christ in the USA. Used by permission. All rights reserved.

NOTE: Consult Christian Video Licensing International Motion Picture Licensing Corporation (1-800-462-8855 or www.mplc.org) for its umbrella licensing program covering the use of videos/DVDs or video/DVD clips in any public gathering.

Copyright © 2012 Augsburg Fortress. All rights reserved. May be reproduced for local use provided that each copy carry this notice.

Director Guide — 3Spark™ Summer © 2012 Augsburg Fortress. All rights reserved. May be reproduced for local use only.

Contents

INTRODUCING SPARK SUMMER! 5About the Daily Stories and ThemesAbout the BibleAbout the Daily ScheduleAbout PreschoolersAbout the MusicAbout DecoratingAbout the FilesAbout the Spark Summer Community

SPARK SUMMER STORIES 7Noah’s Ark (Genesis 6–9)Jonah and the Big Fish (Jonah 1–4)Walking on Water (Matthew 14:22-33)Woman at the Well (John 4:5-42)Lydia (Acts 16:9-15)

BIG PICTURE OVERVIEW 8Noah’s Ark (Genesis 6–9)Jonah and the Big Fish (Jonah 1–4)Walking on Water (Matthew 14:22-33)Woman at the Well (John 4:5-42)Lydia (Acts 16:9-15)

ABOUT SPARK SUMMER RESOURCES 13Leader GuidesBiblesColoring, Activity, and Family PagesPowerPoint Slides

BIBLES AND SPARK SUMMER 15Spark Story Bibles and Spark BiblesBible BookletsWhen Bibles Are UsedBible Tips

HOW SPARK SUMMER WORKS 16

HOW TO PLAN SPARK SUMMER 17Planning GuideSample SchedulesHalf-day ScheduleFull-day Schedule


Contents (continued)

ABOUT SPARK SUMMER WORKSHOPS 19Art WorkshopGames WorkshopScience WorkshopVideo Workshop

FUNDRAISING IDEAS 20Budget MoneyRegistration FeeDonationsSponsorshipsWater DropsMaterials and Supplies

VOLUNTEERS 21ShepherdsLarge Group Gathering LeaderMusic LeaderStorytelling Skit PerformersSnack LeadersPreschool LeadersWorkshop LeadersSupport StaffHow to Prepare Volunteers

PUBLICITY IDEAS 23DisplayPhone-a-thonPostersRaffleGo OnlinePre-Program and Post-Program Storytelling SkitsRegistrationFeature the Bibles

BACKDROP IMAGES 24

GRAPHICS 36


Introducing Spark Summer!Spark Summer is a flexible approach to planning Bible-focused summer programming for preschoolers through upper elementary kids. You can use Spark Summer for your congregation’s five-day vacation Bible school program, midweek events, summer Sunday school, or other creative ways that fit your congregation’s needs. Spark Summer taps into what congregations love about Spark: easy-to-use leader material, fun activities for kids, and a focus on the Bible. Read on for more about what Spark Summer is all about.

About the Daily Stories and ThemesEach day in Spark Summer focuses on a Bible story about water. Two stories are from the Old Testament, two are from the Gospels, and one is from Acts. Each day also has a theme word to help kids focus on a concept from each story. Look for the theme word to be woven into the activities for the day in all sorts of ways.

About the BibleSpark Summer is centered around placing God’s Word into kids’ hands. Kids will explore the Bible story each day in multiple ways as they meet in small groups with Shepherds, in the Large Group Gathering and workshops, and during snack time. They experience the Bible directly during their small groups, as the Shepherds provide support for exploring the story for the day.

About the Daily ScheduleSpark Summer follows a schedule that is illustrated on page 16 of this Director Guide. Kids gather in small groups with their Shepherds, then move into the Large Group Gathering where they’ll sing, watch a skit, and learn more about the story and daily theme. Then kids rotate through the workshops of Art, Games, Science, and Video. You plan when they will enjoy an easy-to-serve snack. Kids finish the day in small groups with their Shepherds.

About PreschoolersSpark Summer is for preschoolers too! Each day, the Spark Preschool content provides enough activities for preschoolers to explore the story in a safe, self-contained setting. After playing in story-related centers, they can join the big kids during the Large Group Gathering. When they return, they gather for storytelling and then explore the story through options for art, games, music, and snack.

About the MusicInstead of providing a CD of prerecorded music, Spark Summer offers suggestions for each day so that you can choose music that fits your church’s traditions and interests. When planning the music for the Large Group Gatherings, you can choose from options such as camp songs, hymns, spirituals, global songs, and other tunes that kids love to sing. These song suggestions will include music from the Spark Songbook and Spark Song CD. Spark Summer also provides new verses for “Spark My World,” which can be found on the Spark Song CD and in the Spark Songbook, so you can sing about each day’s story.


About DecoratingSummer programming (especially VBS) often means decorating the church to reflect the theme and the characters. With Spark Summer, the amount of decorating is up to you. This Director Guide provides several images for backdrops. You may consider supplementing these with decorating supplies in the Spark colors of red, orange, and yellow. Or you could explore the water theme in your decorating through lots of blues and greens, wading pools, droplets, and other aquatic ideas.

About the FilesAll Spark Summer content for leaders is available electronically instead of print to allow for easy sharing and customization. Each day has several files for that story. Files are available as PDFs or in Rich Text Format (rtf) to let you customize for your setting. Look through the files you need, send files to volunteers, and download files such as the PowerPoint slides to your laptop to create presentations.

About the Spark Summer CommunityGo to the Spark Sunday School page on Facebook to connect with other congregations using Spark Summer. You can share ideas with other leaders, post pictures of your decorations, and ask questions as you plan your Spark Summer program.


Spark Summer StoriesTake a look at the stories and themes for Splash in God’s Word.

Noah’s Ark (Genesis 6–9)

Promise

Jonah and the Big Fish (Jonah 1–4)

Tell

Walking on Water (Matthew 14:22-33)

Trust

Woman at the Well (John 4:5-42)

Ask

Lydia (Acts 16:9-15)

Welcome


Big Picture OverviewUse this chart to see the workshop activities for Lower Elementary, Upper Elementary, and All Kids. You can also check out the snack option for the day.

Noah’s Ark (GENESIS 6–9)

Lower Elementary Upper Elementary All Kids

Art WorkshopROCKING THE ARK: Kids create ark pictures and add paint by rocking paint-covered marbles on their papers.

DRIP-DROP FLOOD!: Kids use corn syrup mixed with paint to create flood pictures.

A FLOOD AND A PROMISE: Kids create spin-art flood and promise plates.

Games WorkshopARK ANSWERS: Kids work in teams to answer questions about the story.

NOAH SAYS: Kids play a Simon Says-type game, letting Noah or Mrs. Noah use a Bible to help.

KNOWING NOAH: Kids get to know the story of Noah’s Ark better by finding verses in the Bible.

ARK ACTIVITY CENTER: Kids move like animals around the room and try not to run into each other.

ANIMAL SAILING: Kids sail the Bible from person to person without letting it fall.

HAVE YOU “HERD” THE

ANIMALS?: Kids pretend to be Noah or Mrs. Noah and herd the other kids as animals onto the ark.

Science WorkshopWHAT “WOOD” KEEP NOAH

SAFE?: Kids experiment with wood blocks to determine the best kind of wood to build an ark.

THE BUDDY PROMISE: Kids learn about characteristics of different animal groups and play a game to find their animal match.

REMEMBERING GOD’S PROMISE:

Kids learn tricks for memorizing and practice memorizing parts of the story.

Video WorkshopNOAH’S EXCELLENT ADVENTURE:

Kids watch excerpts from Mars Needs Moms or Brother Bear and learn that even though people don’t always keep their promises, God does. They may watch videos of amazing catches.

THE GODLY WORKOUT: Kids watch excerpts from Prom or Chicken Run and learn that God always keeps promises, even when people don’t. They may watch videos of flooding.

GOD KEEPS PROMISES WITHOUT

DOUBT: Kids watch excerpts from Soul Surfer or Finding Nemo and learn that God keeps promises even when others are doubtful. They may watch videos of wedding vows.

SnackYO-BOWS WITH PROMISE PUNCH: Kids enjoy colorful yogurt in tubes and colorful punch as they remember God’s promise.


Jonah and the Big Fish (JONAH 1–4)


Art WorkshopFISH FRAMES: Kids create fish-shaped frames and place pictures of themselves in the bellies of their fish frames.

TELLING BOX: Kids decorate a box in which they can keep things that help them tell about God.

TOWN AND COUNTRY MURAL:

Kids work together to create a mural retelling the story of Jonah and add their own people to tell God’s story.

Games WorkshopSTUCK IN A FISH: Kids pretend to be Jonah in the belly of the fish and try to figure out the action that will let them get out so they can go tell God’s story.

MOUTH MATCHING: Kids play a Memory-type game to learn more about Jonah’s story.

WHALE BLABBER: Kids talk in whale-speak and try to guess what part of the story is being told.

SPARK BIBLE BALL BALANCING

BONANZA: Kids try to balance a table tennis ball on a Bible and discover that opening the Bible can help.

PICTURE TAG: Kids tell the story of Jonah by working in teams to draw pictures.

CATCH AND RELEASE: Kids play a game of link tag and work together as a big fish to catch Jonah.

Science WorkshopSTOMACH SPEAK: Kids learn about the digestive system and what our stomachs tell us.

GOD CAN TELL: Kids learn about casting lots and experiment with probability and chance.

TELL ME AGAIN: Kids direct each other to a special spot to practice listening skills.

Video WorkshopGOD’S GOT THE GOODS ON YOU: Kids watch excerpts from Cars 2 or The Lion King and learn that telling important things can make a big difference. They may watch videos of whale “singing.”

GOD SAYS, “GO AND TELL!”: Kids watch excerpts from Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Rodrick Rules or The Muppets Take Manhattan and learn about the importance of telling God’s story. They may watch videos of bare-handed catches.

I CAN TELL SOMETHING

IMPORTANT: Kids watch excerpts from The Secret of Moonacre or Chicken Little and learn about characters who tell important things. They may watch videos of smart fish.

SnackBIG FISH FUNNELS WITH JONAH JUICE BAGS: Kids look for graham cracker bear-shaped “Jonahs” in a sugar cone filled with fish and enjoy ocean-themed juice bags together.


Walking on Water (MATTHEW 14:22-33)


Art WorkshopWHERE’S JESUS? BINOCULARS: Kids create Jesus binoculars to help them see lots of places they can trust Jesus.

WATER WALKING GRAPHIC

NOVEL: Kids work together to create a graphic novel retelling the story of Walking on Water.

WALKING-WITH-JESUS

MAGNETS: Kids create foot-shaped magnets to remind them they can trust and walk with Jesus.

Games WorkshopWATER JUMP: Kids help each other jump from one wooden block to another, being careful not to touch the water (floor).

JUMPING PEOPLE: Kids jump clothespins onto a target.

WATER WALK: Kids work in teams to transfer water from one bowl to another.

BACK TO BACK: Kids work in pairs to practice trusting each other as they stand, sit, and crouch back-to-back.

FEAR FREEZE: Kids play a game of freeze tag in which they get frozen by fear, but Jesus releases them from their fear.

PICTURE THAT!: Kids take turns drawing something that makes them afraid while everyone else works together to guess what it is.

Science WorkshopGUESS WHAT I SEE!: Kids focus on a picture and do their best to recreate it from memory.

THE FORCE OF BUOYANCY: Kids experiment with buoyancy to learn about what makes boats float.

WATER BUGS: Kids experiment with water tension and create bugs that will float on water.

Video WorkshopI CAN BE TRUSTED: Kids watch excerpts from Rango or Tinker Bell and learn about the amazing things that can happen when we trust each other. They may watch videos of walking on water competitions.

ORDINARY EXTRAORDINARY:

Kids watch excerpts from Paul Blart: Mall Cop or Sky High and learn about the importance of trusting each other and trusting Jesus. They may watch videos of Rube Goldberg machines.

WE CAN LEARN TO TRUST:

Kids watch excerpts from Hoodwinked Too! Hood vs. Evil or Mulan and learn about trusting even when it’s not easy to do. They may watch videos of extraordinary musicians.

SnackWATERMELON BOATS WITH SEA SODA: Kids rock their watermelon boats in shallow water and enjoy their boats and a sparkling blue drink together.


Woman at the Well (JOHN 4:5-42)


Art WorkshopBIBLE TIMES WATER JARS: Kids create an antique-looking water jar and remember that the woman at the well had to fetch all her water with a water jar.

MARBLEIZED MATS: Kids use water and spray paint to create place mats.

UNEXPECTED CHANGES: Kids decorate a water droplet picture with crayon shavings and watch how their picture changes when it’s ironed.

Games WorkshopFUN FACTS: Kids get to know each other better by finding out fun facts about their classmates.

SINK OR FLOAT: Kids work in teams to find five items that will float in water.

BIBLE TRIVIA BEANBAG TOSS: Kids work in teams to correctly answer Bible trivia and get the beanbag in the hoop.

LIVING WATER RELAY: Kids work in teams to take water from the well and fill up their jugs.

WATER FROM THE WELL: Kids work in teams using turkey basters to move water from the well to their water jar.

STORY CARDS: Kids work in teams to put the story cards in order.

Science WorkshopLIVING WATER CHANGES: Kids use colored water to dye a white flower and learn about how living water changes us.

HOW MANY DROPS?: Kids see how many drops of water can fit on several different kinds of coins before the water crosses the boundary of the coin.

FROM DIRTY TO CLEAN: Kids create a water filter from a recycled bottle and watch as dirty water becomes clean.

Video WorkshopEXPECT THE UNEXPECTED: Kids watch excerpts from Veggie Tales: Princess and the Pop Star or The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh and learn what can happen when we talk to God. They may watch videos of water fountain surprises.

ASK GOD: Kids watch excerpts from Letters to God or Happy Feet and learn that God answers when we ask. They may watch videos of improv comedy.

JUST ASK: Kids watch excerpts from Breaking the Press or Charlotte’s Web and learn that God hears us when we pray. They may watch videos of sports victories turned messy.

SnackGELATIN WELLS WITH LIVING WATER DRINKS: Kids float raisins in sparkling, flavored living water and enjoy blue gelatin cups together.


Lydia (ACTS 16:9-15)


Art WorkshopBAPTISM CARDS: Kids use baptism symbols to create cards to give to people baptized at church.

BAPTISM POUCHES: Kids make purple fabric pouches to give to people baptized at church.

BAPTISM GIFTS: Kids dye purple fabric welcome signs to give as baptism gifts at church.

Games WorkshopWELCOME TO GOD’S FAMILY:

Kids play a game to welcome each other into God’s family.

GOOD LISTENERS: Kids practice their listening skills by leading each other around the room while other kids distract them with noise.

FOLLOW THE LEADER: Kids play a circle game and follow a leader without disclosing who the leader is.

YES OR NO: Kids play a trivia game in teams to help remember the story.

PICTURE RELAY: Kids work in teams to draw Lydia’s story from memory.

LYDIA RELAY: Kids do a relay in teams and model Lydia’s beautiful purple cloth.

Science WorkshopCOLORS OF WELCOME: Kids make fabric dye and use it to create a welcome banner.

THE KEY TO ME: Kids learn about dichotomous keys and determine a key for themselves.

WELCOME AT THE RIVER: Kids experiment with water to determine how much water they use each day.

Video WorkshopWE WELCOME: Kids watch excerpts from Veggie Tales: The Little Drummer Boy or Thomas and Friends: Percy Takes the Plunge and learn about welcoming others. They may watch videos of families welcoming babies.

BE A WELCOMING LEADER!: Kids watch excerpts from The Blind Side or Journey to the Center of the Earth and learn about ways to welcome people to God’s family. They may watch videos of people being welcomed at airports.

A GOOD LEADER IS WELCOMING:

Kids watch excerpts from An American Girl: Chrissa Stands Strong or Pooh’s Heffalump Movie and learn about characters who are good at welcoming. They may watch videos of flash mob welcomes.

SnackPURPLE DYE-SICLES WITH WELCOME WATER: Kids enjoy purple frozen treats and a drink of water as they welcome each other.


About Spark Summer ResourcesTake a look at the resources you’ll need for Spark Summer. You’ll distribute some to volunteer leaders and others to kids and families.

Leader GuidesYour leaders get everything they need in guides that walk them through how to be Shepherds and leaders for Large Group Gatherings (including music and skits), the four workshops, snack time, and Preschool. Here is a description of each type of Leader Guide.

Shepherd Guides are for each Shepherd, the leader who is with a small group of kids throughout the day. Shepherd Guides provide specific activities for welcoming kids and exploring the day’s story in their Bibles. Shepherds also receive tips for transition time activities and conversation starters as they travel to the workshops. Finally, Shepherds wrap things up with kids using the Send content in their Shepherd Guides.

Large Group Gathering leaders plan the time when kids of all ages come together to hear the Bible story, sing songs, watch the skit, and give an offering. You can choose a different offering each day or choose one offering for the entire program. One option is to collect money to fund your denomination’s initiative to eliminate malaria. Make the connection to water by telling kids how mosquitoes need standing water to breed. ELCA Malaria Campaign, the United Methodist Church’s Imagine No Malaria, or PC-USA’s NetWorkers ministry are all denominational programs.

Workshop Guides are for leaders of the Art, Games, Science, and Video workshops. Each guide provides one or two engaging activities for three age groupings: Lower Elementary, Upper Elementary, and All Kids.

Snack Guides for the snack planner contain everything this leader needs to plan and serve an easy, no-prep snack connected to the story.

Preschool Guides for the leaders of young children provide lively ideas for play centers, a dynamic storytelling activity, and several options for music, games, art, and snacks.

Bible Backgrounds help your leaders prepare by exploring each Bible story.

BiblesYou can purchase full-length Bibles for kids or opt for the booklets that contain all the content you need to Splash in God’s Word during Spark Summer.

Spark Story Bible is a vibrant storybook for preschoolers and lower elementary kids that is packed with 150 kid-friendly retellings of Bible stories.

Spark Bible is an NRSV translation of the Bible for upper elementary kids. Packed with feature content, maps, tips on using the Bible, and more, this Bible is a great way for kids to enter into reading God’s Word for themselves. The colorful stickers in the back of the Bible give kids a great way to mark their Bibles their way.

Spark Story Bible Booklet contains the five stories from Spark Summer so that kids can follow along during storytelling time with their Shepherds.

Spark NRSV Bible Booklet gives upper elementary kids a chance to read the actual Bible texts for the Spark Summer stories. There are also tips on using their Bibles, and each pack of five booklets comes with five sticker sheets so kids can mark their Bible booklets.


Coloring, Activity, and Family PagesFor each story, you’ll find a number of additional pages for leaders, kids, and families. Here is a brief description of each one:

Coloring Pages feature artwork from the Spark Story Bible. Shepherds can use them with Lower Elementary kids, and they’re used in each day’s Coloring Center in the Preschool Guide.

Activity Pages feature word games, puzzles, and other activities you can use to fill a few minutes and reinforce the story. Three Activity Pages are available for each story: Lower Elementary, Upper Elementary, and All Kids.

Family Pages help kids take the story home by providing families with a quick look at the day’s story, a prayer, conversation starters, and fun at-home activities to try together. Shepherds hand out the Family Page during the Send part of their time together with kids.

PowerPoint SlidesUse the PowerPoint slides during the Large Group Gatherings so kids can see and sing along as they splash in God’s Word.

Spark Story Bible Slides are PowerPoint slides that show the art from the Spark Story Bible. You can choose to project the story during your Large Group Gathering. Each story has two versions: one with the text and one with no text. Project the art to help storytelling come to life!

Spark Lyrics are available as PowerPoint slides so that you can project lyrics from songs on the Spark Song CD to help kids sing along. Check out the story-specific lyrics for each day when you sing “Spark My World.”

Create a PowerPoint presentation with Spark Story Bible images and information about your program to share with the congregation before Spark Summer. Show the presentation before and after worship times. They’ll see the stories in action and learn about registration, dates and times, and other important information.

Recruit someone to create a PowerPoint presentation with photos from the week. You can also report on numbers of kids and volunteers, show how many Bibles were distributed, and report on the final offering amount.


Bibles and Spark SummerSpark Summer gets God’s Word in kids’ hands! Whether you purchase a full-length Bible for each kid or order the Bible booklets, Spark Summer will get kids splashing in God’s Word. As part of their Spark Summer experience, kids will spend time in the Bible each day as they explore stories about Noah, Jonah, Jesus and Peter, the woman at the well with Jesus, and Lydia.

Spark Story Bibles and Spark BiblesOne option for Spark Summer is to purchase a Spark Story Bible or Spark Bible for everyone who attends. The Spark Bibles and Spark Story Bibles are great gifts that will last long after the summer months are over. If your congregation already uses these Bibles in Spark Sunday School, many kids will already have them and can bring them each day. Present kids who are guests during Spark Summer with their own Bible at the beginning of Spark Summer. Let them know the Bible is theirs to keep when Spark Summer is over.

Bible BookletsBible Booklets are alternatives to the full-length Spark Story Bible and Spark Bible for kids. The 32-page Spark Story Bible Booklet is for Preschoolers and Lower Elementary kids. Each booklet contains the vibrant Spark Story Bible content from all five stories in Spark Summer. There is also a page at the back for kids to get autographs from their Spark Summer friends.

The 24-page Spark NRSV Bible Booklet for Upper Elementary kids includes the pages from the five stories in the Spark Bible so kids can read the stories from the Bible. Kids will also find a few pages with tips on finding passages and marking their Bibles. Each booklet also comes with a page of Spark Bible Stickers so kids can add stickers to the passages.

When Bibles Are UsedKids will spend time in their Bibles during the Gather and Send parts of each day with their Shepherds. Younger kids will explore the colorful, vibrant stories from the Spark Story Bible. Older kids will read the story from the pages of the Bible and will mark up their Bibles. Kids also will explore the Bible story when they attend the Large Group Gathering, explore the workshops, and enjoy their snack.

Bible TipsIf you are using the full-length Bibles, plan a place for each small group to store their Bibles when they are not in use, such as a bookcase, shelf, or plastic bin. Make sure kids’ names are on the presentation page in their Bibles. You may also want to place their name on a sticky note and attach it to the front of each Bible so you can see each Bible’s owner at a glance.

If you are using the booklets, have kids write their name on the cover so Shepherds can easily pass out the booklets each day. Shepherds could carry the booklets around throughout the day in a bag or backpack or leave them in their small group meeting spot.

If your church has a sewing group, consider asking them to make Bible covers for each child’s Bible. You can find several patterns online by searching for “Bible cover patterns.” Plan a time when kids can customize their covers with iron-on letters or fabric paints.


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How Spark Summer Works


How to Plan Spark SummerThis section makes it easy to keep track of and plan all the parts of Spark Summer.

Planning GuideUse this chart for ideas on when to start planning Spark Summer.

2-3 months before

• Download the Spark Summer files and review the files for each day• Check out Spark Summer tips on the Spark Facebook page• Begin recruiting volunteers to be Shepherds, Workshop Leaders, Large Group Gathering Leaders, Bible

Storytelling Skit performers, and Music Leaders• Begin collecting supplies and materials• Begin advertising within your church community• Begin fundraising• Begin enrollment

1-2 months before

• Map out your facility and where Spark Summer activities will happen• Put announcements in community resources• Finalize volunteers• Contact volunteers and provide them with necessary materials• Continue collecting supplies and materials• Create backdrops• Plan your Spark Summer schedule• Monitor enrollment• Order Spark Story Bibles or Spark Story Bible Booklets and Spark Bibles or Spark NRSV Bible Booklets

3-5 weeks before

• Assign Shepherd Groups, Shepherds, Workshop Leaders, and all other volunteers• Line up a few extra volunteers who can step in as needed• Recruit a volunteer to take pictures• Send letters of welcome• Provide all volunteers with necessary information• Finalize registration materials• Confirm all spaces and equipment for Workshops, Large Group Gatherings, Snack, and Preschool

1 week before

• Finalize Shepherd Groups and make a plan for placing walk-in kids• Assign meeting locations for Shepherd Groups• Connect with all volunteers• Organize Storytelling Skit rehearsals• Answer any final questions• Set up for Spark Summer


Sample SchedulesSpark Summer is designed to be flexible for planners and fun for kids and leaders. Whether your congregation has a long tradition of summer programming or wants to start something new, there is a Spark Summer plan for you.

Half-day Schedule

9:00-9:15 Kids arrive and meet in small groups with their Shepherd

9:15-9:30 Large Group Gathering

9:30-10:00 Workshop

10:00-10:30 Workshop

10:30-10:45 Snack


11:15-11:30 Kids gather in small groups with their Shepherd and are sent home

Full-day Schedule

9:30-10:00 Kids arrive and meet in small groups with their Shepherd

10:00-10:30 Large Group Gathering



12:00-12:30 Lunch

12:30-1:15 Workshop

1:15-2:00 Workshop

2:00-2:30 Snack

2:30-3:00 Choose an All-Kids activity from one of the workshops, gather again for more singing, or have a free play time

3:00-3:30 Kids gather in small groups with their Shepherd and are sent home


About Spark Summer WorkshopsAs you plan for Spark Summer, choose from four different workshops that kids will participate in each day. Use one, two, three, or all four, depending on your Spark Summer schedule. You can use the same workshops each day, or vary them to include all your favorite activities.

Art WorkshopKids will connect to each day’s story and characters through an art project in the Art Workshop. Projects are easy to prep and fun to create. No two projects are alike! In Spark Summer Art, kids are invited to exercise creativity to create a unique project connected to the day’s story and theme.

Games WorkshopKids will connect to each day’s story and characters through one or two games in the Games Workshop. Each Games Workshop includes two games: one high-energy game and one low-energy game. Do one or both, depending on the amount of time and space you have. In Spark Summer Games, kids will move and play in teams or individually as they learn about the day’s story and theme.

Science WorkshopKids will connect to each day’s story and characters through a science lesson in the Science Workshop. Each science lesson is unique and can include an experiment, a project, fun facts, and more. From testing the hardness of wood to learning about the digestive system, kids will enjoy learning about science as they explore the day’s story and theme.

Video WorkshopKids will connect to each day’s story and characters through watching videos in the Video Workshop. Two movie clips are suggested each day. Each clip features characters that represent similar characteristics or struggles as those in the Bible story. In a new feature for Spark, suggestions for online video content are provided. Use these suggestions if the leader can show videos on a laptop, tablet, or smart phone. (You’ll need Wi-Fi access or a wireless hotspot to do this.)


Fundraising IdeasHere are a few tips, tricks, and ideas for filling in where money falls short in your Spark Summer: Splash in God’s Word program. Think about what you need most—donations of materials, time, or money—and then try a few of these “fun-raising” ideas to meet your goals.

Budget MoneyIf you haven’t already, create a proposal to present to your church council or finance team. This is a good place to start. Perhaps there is some extra money allotted for youth or children’s expenses that could help fund Spark Summer this year.

Registration FeeMinimal registration fees can go a long way in helping you fund Spark Summer. Many churches charge $5 a kid or $15 a family to help offset the cost of supplies and programming.

DonationsBelieve it or not, people want to give money to support children’s ministry. Invite your congregation to support your Spark Summer program. Staff a table during fellowship time each Sunday leading up to Spark Summer, or request to take a special Spark Summer offering during the service.

SponsorshipsSponsorships are a great way for members of your congregation to take responsibility for a portion of your VBS program. People will love the opportunity to be the Snack Sponsor, Decoration Sponsor, or other kind of sponsor. Sponsors are also a great way to help out kids who might not be able to afford a registration fee.

Water DropsCreate a splashy Spark Summer Backdrop (from the backdrops provided on pages 25-35 of this guide) to display in a common area of your church. Invite members of your community to purchase water drops that will be added to the background. Sell drops for a few dollars apiece and allow purchasers to add their name to the drop and tape the drop to the wall.

Materials and SuppliesWhether it’s science supplies or skit props for the Large Group Gathering, members of your church community will be glad to throw something in their shopping cart and drop it off to help out with Spark Summer. Get an inventory from your Workshop, Music, and Storytelling Skit leaders on what’s needed. Write each item on an individual tag. Make tags available to the congregation on a small tree or other display in your common area. Invite members to take a tag with them, and then return the item along with the tag.


Volunteers

Shepherds Kids start each day at Spark Summer in their Shepherd Groups of five or six kids. Each Shepherd Group is led by a Shepherd. Shepherds use the Shepherd Guide to introduce the story at the beginning of the day. They travel with their groups through all activities from the Large Group Gatherings to the Workshops and beyond. Shepherds should be ready to be a friend to kids, lead discussions and help answer questions, encourage team building and interaction, and help with any disciplinary issues that arise. Each Shepherd receives a Shepherd Guide that will help them Open the Bible each day, provide transition tips, and help start fun and meaningful conversations.

Large Group Gathering LeaderThe Large Group Gathering Leader introduces the story and theme every day in the large group. This leader should be full of enthusiasm and comfortable in front of a large group of kids. In some churches, this person will also double as the Music Leader. The LGG Leader also coordinates the Storytelling Skit Performers, props, and costumes.

Music LeaderThe Music Leader leads everyone in singing during the Large Group Gathering. The Music Leader will select from the suggested songs in the Large Group Gathering Guide and prepare one to three songs for the group to sing together. The Music Leader should be skilled at teaching music and enjoy working with large groups of kids.

Storytelling Skit PerformersThe Storytelling Skit Performers will perform the storytelling skit each day during the Large Group Gathering at Spark Summer, as well as the Pre-Program Skit and the Post-Program Skit before and after your Spark Summer program. Skit Performers will work with the Large Group Gathering Leader. Skit Performers could be middle school or high school youth, parents, or other leaders who are comfortable speaking in front of a group. Skit Performers should be energetic and enthusiastic and enjoy performing.

Snack LeadersSnack Leaders will prepare and serve the low-preparation snacks each day at Spark Summer. Snack Leaders should know a lot about where to find things in your church kitchen! Snack Leaders can be put in charge of purchasing, preparing, and serving the snack each day.

Preschool LeadersSpark Summer provides separate activities for preschool kids each day. Preschool Leaders are in charge of leading preschool kids through the stories and activities for each day of Spark Summer. Preschool Leaders should be comfortable leading young kids, enthusiastic, and energetic. Preschool Leaders should love to play and sing. There should be at least one Preschool Leader for every five preschool kids.


Workshop LeadersAt Spark Summer, kids will learn about the daily story and theme through hands-on activities at the Art Workshop, Games Workshop, Science Workshop, and Video Workshop. Enthusiastic workshop leaders who love to work with kids are key to making the story come to life in each of these workshops. Workshop leaders will be responsible for collecting and preparing all materials and supplies for each day’s workshop. Workshop leaders should practice and/or preview all activities before kids arrive to ensure that they’re ready to lead during Spark Summer. Workshop leaders should be adults or youth who are organized, responsible, and particularly interested in leading activities that are specifically designed for their site.

Support StaffAn eye for getting things done and a willing attitude are characteristics of the best support staff members. Support staff assist activity site leaders with the planning, preparation, implementation, and clean-up of site activities. They can also help the Shepherds with the Shepherd Groups, especially if the number of kids in the group grows because of increased attendance.

How to Prepare VolunteersYour volunteers may have a range of experience leading kids, whether it’s in a large group, small group, or educational setting. Be sure to check in with volunteers regularly to see how prepared and comfortable they feel performing their Spark Summer role. Consider holding a Volunteer Training two or three weeks prior to Spark Summer. Training should give volunteers a background of Spark Summer, an overview of each day’s theme and story, and an understanding of how your Spark Summer will be set up. This is also a great time to offer some tips and tricks for working with kids and to cover all needed boundaries and safety training.

For part of the training, try walking through Spark Summer content for one of the stories. This will help all volunteers experience how the story is presented to kids. It also gives an idea of each day’s flow and shows how leaders can use extra ideas to fill time or expand on the story.


Publicity IdeasGetting the word out about Spark Summer is the best way to make it a success. Select from this collection of ideas or create your own. Any way you do it, make sure that Spark Summer is on everyone’s minds and calendars.

DisplayCreate a display using photographs of your kids from Sunday school or a summer program from a previous year. Pique interest in the week by displaying art projects, science materials, and Bibles or Booklets that will be used during Spark Summer. Use the display to generate interest in volunteering and registering.

Phone-a-thonRecruit youth and adults who are willing to hold a phone-a-thon. Call members and friends of your congregation, local day care centers, and even other churches to personally invite them to your Spark Summer program.

PostersHave a Spark Summer poster-making session in Sunday school. Supply poster board, paints, markers, magazines, scissors, and glue. Encourage kids to sign their names and display the finished posters around your church building.

RaffleHold a raffle for a few Spark Bibles and Spark Story Bibles. Every kid gets to put his or her name in the drawing one time. Kids can add their name again when they register for Spark Summer and every time they invite new friends.

Go OnlinePromote Spark Summer on your church’s Web page. Use graphics or backdrops from pages 25-38 of the Director Guide and pictures from past summer programs. Provide a downloadable registration page. If your congregation uses Facebook to connect and communicate with people, let people know about Spark Summer, but also ask questions about their own summer experiences as kids. Post questions such as “What do you remember about VBS when you were growing up?” or “What is your favorite camp song to sing in the summer?” and watch the comments that are posted.

Pre-Program and Post-Program Storytelling SkitsGenerate excitement about this year’s Spark Summer program by performing the Pre-Program Storytelling Skit during worship. Use the Post-Program Storytelling Skit to wrap up your week of Spark Summer and to make sure everyone in the congregation knows how much fun was had.

RegistrationSet up a registration area in your narthex, and staff the area before and after worship during the weeks before Spark Summer. Advertise your registration process in the bulletin, newsletter, and web page.

Feature the BiblesEncourage members to sponsor a Spark Summer kid by purchasing a Bible or booklet for him or her. Or create a display that shows how many Bibles you need to purchase. For each donation, color in part of the display.

Augsburg Fortress Fortress OR ... Games, Science, and Video. ... and download files such as the...

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Transcript of Augsburg Fortress Fortress OR ... Games, Science, and Video. ... and download files such as the...