Vacation Bible School provides many churches with great opportunities to reach new families during the summer. Most families love finding things for their children to do in the summer and VBS seems to be one of those activities that doesn’t scare un-churched families away. Retaining visitors is an important part of planning for a successful VBS.
So, you have a successful Vacation Bible School, but how do you follow up and make sure to maximize all the work poured into a great week does not go wasted? The key is understanding that VBS is not just an event, but is purpose driven.
Here are a few tips to consider to help your church retain those families who attend your Vacation Bible School:
1) Make sure that you gather proper contact information at registration. This will be vital to proper follow up once VBS concludes.
2) If you have a family night to conclude your VBS, make sure your pastor and/or staff are visible and meeting the new prospective families.
3) Consider having an adult VBS (Bible study) while the children are participating in their VBS program. Many parents drop their kids off for VBS; this option keeps them on campus.
4) Make sure to promote other children’s’ activities and ministries for the rest of the summer and into the fall. Getting the kids excited about coming back is key.
5) First impressions are important. If your VBS is done with excellence, parents will notice. This goes a long way in connecting with them after VBS is done.
6) Create a welcome packet that can be delivered to the home after VBS. This can include various information about the church, but make sure to include a welcome gift as well. This is viewed as just a touch that shows you care and you hope to see them again.
7) Don’t forget that the element of prayer is essential to success before your VBS and afterwards as well.
These steps executed properly will help your church see how important VBS is and hopefully strengthen the overall ministry of your church.
Do you have any you’d like to add? If so, do so in the comments section below.
