As leaders, we have the amazing opportunity to guide kids into healthy relationships — with God and with one another. That’s why we use the Code. The Code is our simple way to remind kids how to build relationships that build disciples.
First, we teach kids to Respect Everyone, Everywhere. Respect is modeled in the way we treat kids, parents, and teammates. We show them how to use kind words, how to keep hands and bodies to themselves, and how to offer love and forgiveness when mistakes happen.
Second, relationships grow in trust. That’s why we remind kids to Be Trusted and Trustworthy. You can model this by keeping group conversations safe. Encourage kids to listen well, and remind them that what’s shared in small group stays in small group.
Third, kids need help focusing. We guide them to Focus on What They Should Focus On. That means leading one conversation at a time, minimizing distractions, and pointing kids back to the group when they get off track. Your presence and attention set the tone for how they’ll respond.
And finally, we help kids Be Responsible for Their Attitude and Actions. When a child makes a mistake, walk them through owning it, asking forgiveness, and trying to do better.
This is a Biblical model of conflict resolution, and you get to demonstrate it in real time."
Leaders, when you live out the Code and guide kids through it, you’re not just managing a group, you’re modeling discipleship. The Code gives you language and tools to build safe, Christ-centered relationships where kids can grow in faith.
First, we teach kids to Respect Everyone, Everywhere. Respect is modeled in the way we treat kids, parents, and teammates. We show them how to use kind words, how to keep hands and bodies to themselves, and how to offer love and forgiveness when mistakes happen.
Second, relationships grow in trust. That’s why we remind kids to Be Trusted and Trustworthy. You can model this by keeping group conversations safe. Encourage kids to listen well, and remind them that what’s shared in small group stays in small group.
Third, kids need help focusing. We guide them to Focus on What They Should Focus On. That means leading one conversation at a time, minimizing distractions, and pointing kids back to the group when they get off track. Your presence and attention set the tone for how they’ll respond.
And finally, we help kids Be Responsible for Their Attitude and Actions. When a child makes a mistake, walk them through owning it, asking forgiveness, and trying to do better.
This is a Biblical model of conflict resolution, and you get to demonstrate it in real time."
Leaders, when you live out the Code and guide kids through it, you’re not just managing a group, you’re modeling discipleship. The Code gives you language and tools to build safe, Christ-centered relationships where kids can grow in faith.
Posted in IK New Leader