Do You Have a KidMin Bin?
The Bin
Purchase a bin that is big enough to contain everything but not so big that it is difficult to carry. Using one bin is always better than two smaller bins because you won't accidentally leave one behind and know exactly what bin your tools and supplies are in if there is only one.
The Content
Must-Haves
Blank Paper
These are a blank canvas for the imagination! Use for colouring, drawing, writing or folding into airplanes.
Pencils, Crayons and Pencil Crayons
These are the least messy writing utensils. Make sure to include a good sharpener as well.
Activities Sheets (or Books)
Pinterest is a Kids leader's best friend. A simple search for "activity sheets for kids" on Pinterest will give you more than you will ever need. Add in specific words like "bible", "preschool", or "crossword" to get ones that fit you perfectly. You can also find activity books for kids at the dollar store.
Colouring Sheets (or Books)
Same as with activity sheets, head to Pinterest and search, "colouring sheets for kids" or pick up colouring books from the dollar store. (note that searching "colouring" and "colouring" will give you different results 😆 )
Classroom Games
Have a list of simple "no-prep" classroom games ready for anyone to lead. Use can use this list HERE
More Ideas
Legos
or any other building toys. You can get these on Amazon or the dollar store.
Playdough
You can purchase playdough or make your own. Search "playdough recipe" on Pinterest to find one that works for you.
Whiteboards
Get personalized-sized whiteboards and some whiteboard markers for reusable fun and creativity. Use for drawing or playing games like tic-tac-toe, hangman or ANY OF THESE.
Bluetooth Speaker
These are great for amplifying music from a phone for background music, a dance party, watching a video or playing a game the requires music.
You can often find these at the dollar store or under $25 on Amazon
Board/Card Games
You will have to learn how to play these games, but they are all super simple! Search "kids board games" on Pinterest or check out some of these:
Dollar Store Toys
Head to the toy aisle at the dollar store and pick out a few things that your kids would want to play with:
Puzzles
Stickers
Small Balls
Slinky
Slime
Kids With Exceptionalities
Consider the variety of needs and families within your own ministry context. Creating tools for kids with exceptionalities communicates value and inclusion to those that would have the need for these resources.
This bin can be used to help kids during the ministry experience, not just "playtime." It is important to mention that while the tools in the bin look like toys, the function of the bin is a “tool bin” rather than a “toy bin.” It is important to treat it as such (and teach kids how to use it as such), so we can best serve all kids and families.
It is important to set up clear rules for how to use these tools and to communicate them to kids and parents. It is so important for all kids – particularly those with exceptionalities – to understand what is expected of them. Kids thrive off rules and need to know that there is consistency with the rules to view them as fair. Here are some suggestions for “non-negotiables.” These non-negotiables will depend on the age and stage of your child, so please modify these guidelines for understanding.
Rule #1: Be mindful. Before you grab a tool, think about whether you need it. If you don’t know, review rule #2.
Rule #2: You can only use a tool to help with focus and attention, or to calm down. Otherwise, it will be taken away.
Rule #3: Don’t use a tool if it distracts others or interferes with the work others are doing. If the tool does distract others or interfere with their work, use a different tool or strategy.
Rule #4: Every time you’re done with a tool, put it back where it belongs.
The Content
Noise Cancelling Headphones
Read why noise-cancelling headphones help and what kinds you can look for
8 Headphones for children with Auditory Processing Disorder - friendshipcircle.org
Fidgets
Read what fidgets are, how they can help and where you can find them
What are they and how can they help? - friendshipcircle.org
Teacher Tip: The Dos and Don’ts of Fidgets for Kids - understood.org
Playdough
Read how playdough can help kids in your ministry and how you can make it yourself
A Recipe For Sensory Success - clhgroup.co.uk
Colouring Pages
Read how Coloring Calms Children with Anxiety and Special Needs - comfortinganxiouschildren.com
Legos
Read how you can use tools such as legos to help kids
5 Steps To Getting Started With Play Therapy - friendshipcircle.org
Timer apps:
Other helpful tools to consider adding to your “Kidmin Bin”