Each course description provides an overview of the course content and goals as well as an agenda of topics that will be covered. Icons are used to show locations where each course is offered:
The course is offered on campus in Warrenton, MO.
The course is offered online.
The course is offered at various locations across the USA. You can click this link for a list of upcoming courses, locations and contact information.
The course is offered at various international locations. You can click the link for a list of international contacts by region.
The courses offered by the Children's Ministries Institute® (CMI®) are grouped into the following areas:
It is important to begin to instill spiritual truth in the lives of young children. The Teaching Little Kids course gives characteristics of children ages two to seven and practical helps for teaching God's Word in an age appropriate manner. The student will learn how to effectively share the message of salvation so even young children can understand and have opportunity to receive Christ as Savior. Attention is focused on giving students practical hands-on training and experience with young children, thus equipping them to initiate an effective ongoing ministry to the youngest of mission fields.
This module is offered simultaneously with CM202 Teaching Children Effectively Level 1 for those who hold a Level 1 certificate (on campus only).
Agenda: • Understanding Little Kids • Basic Bible Truths for Little Kids • Me, A Teacher of Little Kids? • Literature Survey • Lesson Demonstration • Bible Lesson Preparation and Presentation • Teaching Memory Verses to Little Kids • Making Your Class Personal • Building Self-Worth • Creative Review • Classroom Management • Rhythm, Rhyme and a Solo • Prayer and Little Kids • Starting a Good News Club for Little Kids • What a Character! • Finger Plays and Action Rhymes • Learning Centers • Puppets and Little Kids • Puppet Workshop
This course features opportunities to participate in two class sessions at a local day care facility.
CM202: Teaching Children Effectively™ (TCE™) Level 1
A practical learning experience designed to equip students with basic skills and effective methods to evangelize children and immediately begin a neighborhood or public school outreach ministry. Emphasis is placed on organizing and conducting meaningful classroom activities which can enrich children spiritually. In addition to regular course work, students are required to participate in teaching five children's classes applying the methods learned in the course.
Agenda: • The Child in the New Testament • The Importance of Conversion • How to Lead a Child to Christ • The Importance of the Teacher • Bible Lesson Preparation and Presentation • Counseling the Child for Salvation • Scripture Memorization • The Importance of Reaching the Child in the Neighborhood • The Good News Club® Program • Organizing the Good News Club • Managing Your Classroom • Teaching Children to Pray • Teaching with Music • Visual Communication in Teaching • Encouraging the Newly-Converted Child
In addition, three required practicum sessions conducted during the course provide each student with evaluated experience in applying the theory taught.
TCE Level 2 is designed to provide information and practical methods which will enable the student to effectively guide the saved child in progressive spiritual growth. The course is centered on the principle that true teaching of the Word of God produces change. Students gain skills which will enable them to offer practical help to children as they establish and develop a personal relationship with God. Students are required to participate in teaching five children's classes applying the methods learned in the course to enhance classroom study.
Prerequisite: CM202 Teaching Children Effectively Level 1
Agenda: • General Concepts of Spiritual Development • Bible Lesson Preparation and Presentation • Teaching the Message of Salvation in the Class Hour • Basic Needs of the Child • Teaching Confession of Sin • The Christian Child's Devotional Life • Developing the Child's Appreciation of God • Being a Witness for God • Teaching Missions • Christian Conduct • The Ministry of Teaching • Objectives • Motivating Faithful Attendance
In addition, two required practicum sessions conducted during the course provide each student with evaluated experience in applying the theory taught.
A study of child development and behavior from birth through adolescence as related to the unique problems faced in today's society. Emphasis is placed on the role of the parent/teacher in helping children to develop physically, socially, emotionally, intellectually and spiritually. Students will also learn how to help children who are victims of abuse, divorce, and other dysfunctional situations. In addition, students will learn how to teach children from various religious backgrounds.
Agenda: • Age-Group Characteristics/Personality Development • Teaching Little Kids • Teaching Adolescents • Children at Risk • Teaching Children from Different Religious Backgrounds
This course features a field trip designed to give the student an opportunity to observe children of different age groups, identifying their specific characteristics as discussed in class.
An advanced study of the doctrine of redemption and contemporary methods and strategies for evangelizing and teaching today's child. The course is designed to provide students with a variety of effective tools that can enhance evangelistic skills in children's ministry. The course also helps students define their theology of childhood conversion through an in-depth study of pertinent Scriptures and an examination of current philosophies regarding children and salvation.
Prerequisite: CM202 Teaching Children Effectively Level 1
Agenda: • Theology of Child Conversion • Apologetics for Children • Developing Biblically Focused Kids • Counseling the Child • Methods of Evangelism • Evangelistic Outreach Ministries • Doctrine of Redemption • Learning Styles • Visual Communication in Evangelism
Several optional workshops will be offered during this course. As well, students will be involved in practical outreach ministry to children through Party Clubs.
A course designed to equip students with basic skills for planning and conducting dynamic training for adult learners in various aspects of children's ministry. Students will learn how to conduct training in a variety of settings including seminars, workshops, conferences and ongoing training will be discussed.
Agenda:
Role of the Instructor • Image • Spiritual Development • Balancing Personal Life and Ministry
Spiritual Dynamics in Christian Education • Training with a Purpose • Beginning and Finishing Well • Making Your Class Come Alive • Getting Your Students Involved • Inspiring Your Audience • Understanding Adult Learning • Giving an Effective Demonstration • Organizing a Teacher Training Seminar • Research and Study • Orientation and Demonstration Classes
This course features a devotional series for the student on the victorious Christian life as well as selected lessons from the video series, The Seven Laws of the Learner, by Bruce Wilkinson. In addition, various practicum sessions conducted during the course provide each student with evaluated experience in applying the theory taught.
TT401: Instructor of Teachers Course (IOT) Level 1
A course focused on equipping committed Christians with basic spiritual and educational principles they will need to present Teaching Children Effectively Level 1 courses under the auspices of Child Evangelism Fellowship® (CEF®).Emphasis is placed on the role of the instructor of teachers, under the control of the Holy Spirit, as an instrument to produce change. To qualify for a credential authorizing them as Level 1 instructors of teachers for Child Evangelism Fellowship, students must successfully participate in teaching one Teaching Children Effectively Level 1 course under supervision.
Prerequisite: CM202 Teaching Children Effectively Level 1
* This module is held simultaneously with TT301 Dynamics of Teacher Training during the regular on campus CMI session. Entrance into TT401 is by approval of the academic committee. In addition, students who desire to enroll in TT401 must be 21 years old and have a "B" average in TCE level 1.
Agenda:
CEF Instructor of Teachers • Orientation • Introduction to CEF • The Instructor and His Task • Preparing a Devotional • How to Motivate People to Have a Good News Club • Implementing and Following Up TCE Level 1
Technical Preparation • The Teaching-Learning Process • Writing Objectives • Developing a Class Session • Writing Effective Lesson Plans • Preparing Introductions and Conclusions • The Use of Illustrations in Teaching • Demonstrations in Teacher Training • Student Practicums in Teacher Development • Evaluation Techniques • Visual Aids Workshop
Orientation and/or Demonstrations of TCE Level 1 Subjects • Scripture Memorization • How to Lead a Child to Christ • Bible Lesson Preparation and Presentation • Counseling the Child for Salvation • The Child in the New Testament • Teaching With Music/ Discipline • Managing Your Classroom • The Importance of the Teacher • The Importance of Conversion • Teaching Children to Pray • The Good News Club Ministry • The Importance of Reaching the Child in the Neighborhood • Encouraging the Newly Converted Child
This course also features a devotional series for the student on the victorious Christian life, as well as a seven part video series, The Seven Laws of the Teacher, by Howard Hendricks. In addition, various practicum sessions conducted during the course provide each student with evaluated experience in applying the theory taught.
An advanced Instructor of Teachers course to prepare volunteer and full time Child Evangelism Fellowship instructors of teachers to conduct Teaching Children Effectively Level 2 courses. Experienced instructors explore methods proven successful in training adults to guide saved children in spiritual growth; they receive opportunities to enhance their teaching skills through classroom instruction and practicums. To qualify for a credential authorizing them as Level 2 instructors of teachers for Child Evangelism Fellowship, students must successfully participate in teaching one Teaching Children Effectively Level 2 course under supervision.
Prerequisites:
CM202 Teaching Children Effectively Level 1
CM203 Teaching Children Effectively Level 2
TT401 Instructor of Teachers Course Level 1 Hold a Level 1 Instructor of Teachers credential
* Entrance into this course is by approval of the academic committee.
Agenda: Instructor Development • Orientation • Leading a Class Session • Conclusions with Impact • Developing Appropriate Lesson Plans • Mission of the Instructor • Evaluation Techniques • Methods of Teaching • The Art of Asking Questions • Communicating Effectively • Teaching-Learning Process • Visual Aids that Enhance Learning • Implementing TCE Level 2
• Child Evangelism Fellowship Update
Orientation and/or Demonstrations of TCE Level 2 Subjects • Concepts of Spiritual Development • Bible Lesson Preparation and Presentation • Teaching Missions • Objectives • Basic Needs of the Child • Christian Conduct • Ministry of Teaching • Being a Witness • Developing a Child's Appreciation of God • Teaching Confession of Sin • Motivating Faithful Attendance • The Christian Child's Devotional Life • Teaching the Message of Salvation in the Class Hour • The Child in the Old Testament
This course also features a devotional series for the student on qualities of a leader. In addition, various practicum sessions conducted during the course provide each student with evaluated experience in applying the theory taught.
This course will be offered online at a future date.
This course is designed to equip students with basic skills to develop a dynamic children's ministry program in the local church or parachurch organization. Attention is given to ministry management, volunteer recruitment, event planning and programming.
Agenda: • Developing a Prayer Program • Developing a Ministry Plan • Building Your Ministry Team • Event Planning • Safety Issues in Children's Ministry • Effective Ministry Management • Promoting Your Children's Ministry
LD401: Distinctives of Child Evangelism Fellowship
This course examines the history, philosophy and policies of Child Evangelism Fellowship. The requirements and process for becoming a member of the CEF staff in the USA or internationally will be discussed. This course reveals CEF as a worldwide mission organization with a vital influence in developing children's workers and leaders to be involved in reaching the world's most forsaken mission field with the Gospel.
Agenda: • Historical Development of CEF • Getting to Know CEF • Committee/Director Relationships • CEF Around the World • Taking a Look at CEF Literature • CEF - Ministry Opportunities/Ministry Staffing Program
This course is a study of fundamental principles and skills basic to the successful development of a children's ministry in Child Evangelism Fellowship, the local church, or other mission organizations. This course is designed for leaders who desire involvement in a dynamic ministry under the direction of the Holy Spirit.
Agenda: • Developing a Prayer Program • Raising Personal and Ministry Finances • Developing Church Partnerships • Promotion and Marketing • Writing and Designing Effective Newsletters • Designing for Media • Strategic Planning • Building Your Ministry Team • Developing CEF Ministries • Managing Your Office
*A similar module (LD 400) is available online, but CEF staff must take the on campus course as it is focused more specifically on CEF ministries.
LD403: Leadership Essentials (Previously Dynamics of Christian Leadership)
This course is focused on the student as a leader in children's ministry who is constantly growing and maturing in his or her walk with the Lord and with others. The course examines biblical principles for leadership and the personal qualities essential for a good leader. Through the DISC inventory, students will gain insights into the behavioral patterns that shape their leadership styles. In addition, emphasis is placed on interpersonal relationships, conflict management and communication skills necessary for effective ministry.
Agenda: • The Leader's Devotional Life • Principles of Christian Leadership • The Christian Worker • Personality Insights/Spiritual Gifts • Time Management • Communication Principles • Interpersonal Relationships • Managing Conflict
This FREE 25 minute seminar is designed to provide biblical and historical evidence that children can be saved by taking a look into the following four areas: Jesus’ teaching, personal testimonies, perspectives from theologians and Christian leaders and research studies and statistics. At the end of the seminar, students will understand that children can be saved and be convinced of the importance of sharing the Gospel with children so that they can come to know Christ as Savior while they are young. Enroll Now!
The Gospel: Prepared for a Child's Heart
This FREE 30 minute seminar is designed to give a brief overview of the message of salvation truths that need to be understood in order for a person to be saved. Time is then spent teaching simple ways to explain each aspect of this message to a child. Practical methods and guidelines are given for presenting this message during the class hour. At the end of the seminar, students will be ready and able to clearly present the message of salvation to the children God has placed around them. Enroll Now!
Inviting Children to Receive the Savior
This 20 minute seminar is designed to equip students to effectively give an invitation for salvation. Students will learn both the necessity and principles of giving an invitation. A five step process will be taught and demonstrated. By the end of the seminar, students will be able to use this proven method to help them clearly present an invitation and invite children to receive the Savior! NOTE: This seminar builds on principles taught in both Can Children Be Saved? and The Gospel: Prepared for a Child’s Heart seminars. Viewing those free seminars prior to this one will allow students to build on the foundation that was laid in them.
Counseling a Child: The Art of Asking Questions
This 25 minute seminar is designed to teach students how to lead a child to the Lord Jesus Christ for salvation. Important principles are shared as well as many questions given to help determine the child’s understanding and readiness to receive the Lord Jesus as Savior. What does a child need to understand to be ready to receive Jesus? What does a teacher do with a child who does not seem ready? How is God’s Word used to counsel a child? These are a few of the questions that will be answered in this seminar. At the end of the seminar, students will be equipped with information to help them counsel children to receive the Lord Jesus Christ as Savior. NOTE: This seminar builds on principles taught in both The Gospel: Prepared for a Child’s Heart and Inviting Children to Receive the Savior seminars. Viewing those seminars prior to this one will allow students to build on the foundation that was laid in them.
Discipline: Tips for Influencing Classroom Behavior
This 20 minute seminar is designed to inform the teacher of positive practices that will help diminish problems during class time. These practices will be beneficial for anyone teaching children, including parents. At the end of the seminar, students will know how to practice effective discipline.
Understanding Age Group Characteristics
This 20 minute seminar is designed to teach specific characteristics of five age groups ranging from babies to young teens. Physical, mental, social and spiritual characteristics vary for each age group. Understanding these characteristics will help students in preparing lessons, planning activities, and having realistic expectations of what a child is able to do or understand according to his age. At the end of the seminar, students will be equipped with information to help them more effectively work with children of any age.
Teaching Young Christians to Grow
This 20 minute seminar is designed to equip students to disciple children in their spiritual growth. What is discipleship? How can I help a child understand his new life in Christ? How do I encourage a child to develop good practices of reading the Bible and praying? These are a few questions that will be answered. At the end of the seminar, students will have valuable information to help them teach young Christians to grow in their relationship with the Lord Jesus Christ.
Teaching Preschoolers to Know and Love God
This 30 minute seminar is designed to provide preschool teachers with valuable information to be considered as they prepare for and teach their class. Parents of preschoolers may also benefit from this seminar. What are preschoolers like? Can a preschool child really be saved? What are important characteristics of a preschool class session? How do you teach preschoolers? These questions will be answered during this seminar. At the end of the seminar, students will be equipped with information that can help them become a more effective preschool teacher.
Getting Kids Involved in Missions
This 35 minute seminar is designed to encourage and equip students to teach children how to be missions minded. The preparation, purpose and program for teaching missions is clearly taught. You will learn the four aspects of missions to teach children. At the end of the seminar, students will have valuable information that can help them develop an exciting missions emphasis for the children they teach.
