How to Keep Volunteers Working in a Church Nursery

If there is any part of a church ministry that always seems to fall short of attracting enough volunteers, it’s the nursery. Many churches have this problem and are not sure how to fix it. There are different reasons for the shortages, which we will discuss here. Fortunately, there are also solutions to be found that will not only staff your nursery every week, but put you in touch with back-up volunteers as well.

Instructions

1. 

   Make an announcement to the congregation that the church ministry is growing and exciting changes are occurring. Mention that volunteers are needed, and that they can sign up at the nursery. You have now established a need and perked the attention of the congregants.

2. 

   Ask each parent who drops off a child in the nursery if she could work in the nursery at least once a month. Chances are, she will agree, since she is using the services of others. If she is hesitant because she thinks she is not qualified, reassure her that it is simple, and all she needs to do is take care of the little ones there. Let her know that there will always be at least one other helper in the nursery with her. Ask if there are any dates she cannot work.

3. 

   Gather the names and telephone numbers of workers and helpers. Begin to create a schedule. Place the workers' and helpers' telephone numbers on the schedule. Place the schedule on the door of the nursery so everyone knows who will be working on a particular Sunday. Give a copy of the schedule to each person who is volunteering. Keep a copy for yourself.

4. 

   Send out reminders at the beginning of each week. This will ensure that the reminder is received well in advance. If, for some reason, the volunteer cannot work that Sunday, he will have time to find a replacement.

5. 

   Send thank-you notes to all volunteers who participate each week. You may also want to give more public recognition to those members. Take one Sunday to acknowledge those who help out. Ask the pastor if it is OK for you to allow those who help out in the nursery to come up on stage for recognition. Do this once every 2 months. Many people feel as though nursery duty is not a ministry. They are deeply mistaken. The nursery service that is provided in a church is a ministry set apart. It is one of the most needed ministries in a church, yet often the least appreciated. A little bit of recognition can go a long way.

Tips & Warnings

• • Tell workers that they need to find a replacement if they are not going to be able to work their scheduled date.

Resources

• Ministry to Children
• Separation Anxiety