What is "Rotation" Sunday School

We utilize the workshop rotation method to teach our children about Jesus and give them a strong foundation in the bible. We began using this method in September 2002 and we hosted a training workshop for churches across New England in January 2004 that highlighted this method. The students and the Parent staff at Bethany Covenant Church have both benefited from the rotation model.
The Workshop Rotation Model, also popularly known as WORM, focuses on teaching utilizing a variety of different methods that take into consideration the different ways we all learn. Some of us remember well what we say or read and write (verbal), some learn better when we are actively involved (physical), others are analytical and want to know how and why (logical). There are also those who are learn best when they interact with others (interpersonal), or when they are viewing, or creating something (visual). Then there are those who learn the most when the explore an idea or project independently (reflective) and those who remember well what was presented to them musically (musical). Each person learns utilizing all of these methods but have strengths and weaknesses. Workshop rotation model helps us to address the strengths and reduce weaknesses. One great benefit is how very few behavior issues have been seen at BCC since we began this program.
Utilizing this method we organize our teaching to use multiple workshops for learning a bible story. The same bible story is learned over a three to four week period but each week it is presented in a different format; drama, cooking, art, Science, storytelling, puppetry, games and drama are all used.. The story and the accompanying bible memory verse are emphasized each week to maintain a connection through the rotation.
Some of the rotations we have taught include Abraham and Sarah, Isaac, Jacob, Joseph, Ruth, Gideon, Joshua, Josiah , Hezekiah, Miracles, Parables, The 12 disciples, The Resurrection, and the Christmas story using this method. Each week the students go to a different room depending on the rotation.

If your child has any food allergies please let us know.

One strength of this program is our Shepherd team. These committed volunteers devote one term to one year getting to know their “flock” of children. They make relationships that last long past Children’s Ministry and into youth ministry.

Parent responsibilites

*Parent Responsibilities and Expectations
Serving:
All families that are members of Bethany Covenant Church are expected to be part of our cooperative program. Please see attached form “Children’s Ministry Programs” for more details.

If you have a child(ren) participating in more than one program, you will be expected to serve in more than one program.

All volunteers working with children are expected to complete necessary paperwork for a background check. We will provide this to you if you are new or your previous paperwork is more than 5 years old.

If you cannot serve at this time or should not be around children, please speak confidentially with Kelly Tibbitts.

Supporting:
 Express interest in your child’s class! Your child will come home with papers and crafts relating to the Bible lesson they just learned. This is material for you to see what they are learning and to use it in discussion and application throughout the week.

 Express appreciation to your child’s volunteer teachers! All teachers spend time throughout the week preparing for Sunday morning and weekly events. They love to serve; however, it’s nice to receive recognition as well.

Communicating:
 Please keep open communication with Kelly Tibbitts! Just like at school, there are personal family or developmental issues that may affect your child at church. We want to be able to provide the most appropriate environment and support for your child. If you also have any concerns, ideas, etc. about Children’s Ministry please let Kelly know.

Children's Activities at Bethany Covenant Church

Bethany offers lots of programs for children. Besides Sunday morning, please join us for the following:
• Covenant Kids – Kids in grades 7 or older may join a team that will use their gifts in Children’s church. Contact Kelly to apply to be part of this team.
• Club 56 – Kids in grades 5 & 6 meet Sunday morning at 9 and 10:30 and meet one Friday a month for discipleship, food and fun.
• Music – On Wednesday nights from October- April, Bethany has Carolers (Grades K-2), Choristers, (Grades 3-6), Alpha Bells (Grades 1-3), & Beta Bells (Grades 4-6).
• Preschool – The Lamb’s Workshop is a Christian Preschool and Kindergarten at Bethany. Please visit their website at www.lambsworkshop.com.
• Tuesday Morning – Bethany has a Women’s Bible Study and offers a children’s program for babies through Kindergarten.
• Other special children events include:Christmas event, Teddy Bear Picnic, Easter Sunday Morning program, and VBS.