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

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

Fidgets

Playdough

Colouring Pages

Legos

Other helpful tools to consider adding to your “Kidmin Bin”

Previous
Previous

10 Classrom Games Anyone Can Lead

Next
Next

Curriculum Showcase