Hello incredible team!
We often say that safety is our number one priority. We value the safety of our kids, parents, and volunteers throughout Sunday services.
In the past few years we've grown the security team to be more proactive in allowing the right people in the Family Life Ministries wing. This should only include certified volunteers (you) and parents with children under the age of 12 (that are checking their kids in).
The security team has noticed a few minor items that we could do to help them at their job and ultimately keep our kids safer.
1.) Identify yourself. When you arrive to serve on Sunday mornings please enter through the lobby security check point. The back door in the Family Life wing may not always have a security team member at the door to let you in. Once you get into the lobby please go to the security team member and identify yourself by your name and what area you are serving in.
The security team has your name on a list according to the Sunday and service you are serving in. It's extremely helpful to them if they don't have to ask you who you are and if you're serving while you're trying to get through the door.
So, simply put - please communicate with the security team by identifying yourself when you arrive to serve. Name and where you're serving should be enough.
2.) Badge Visibility. More and more parents are forgetting their stickers or simply not having them ready to show security. When we print off the security badges for parents we need to begin communicating to them, "Please have your badge visible when coming for Check Out."
This will help alleviate some of the unwanted traffic in the hallway and help the lines to move a little faster.
Overall the safety of our kids is most important. Both suggestions from the security team will help to make their job easier and keep our kids safer.
Thanks for all you do. We love you guys much and are glad to be on this journey with you!
Wednesday, February 10, 2016
Tuesday, October 20, 2015
Building Framework
Part of our vision for Family Life Ministries leaders is to "Show FRAMEWORK of a Christ follower."
This speaks of engaging and connecting with kids and parents. Building a foundation in the lives of families will help them connect with Jesus better and impact the world more.
As a newer parent I've learned that I value the truth regarding my daughter. Whenever she spends time with others or we pick her up from a baby sitter the first things we always ask, or at least what's always told to us, is normally about how she behaved.
We want to know was she fussy, did she throw a fit, did she listen well, etc. We're aware that she is often good and sweet, and that she can name lots of animals and often won't stop talking. Those are great things and we love hearing about them from other people.
But, mostly we want to hear about her actual attitudes and behavior to know what we can improve on. If you were to tell me that she was acting poorly or bit you three times these are things we need to work on at home.
In the same hand when she uses her manners and eats decently we want to praise her for being good.
As a leader in Family Life Ministries you can show love through giving parents these tiny details about their kids. They'll appreciate that you paid attention to their kids and care about their family.
If you notice that a kid was really interested in a story or paid attention well let them know. When their kid used their manners or helped a friend out. These are great things parents want to know.
Sometimes communicating bad behaviors can seem difficult depending on the situation and your relationship with the parent. I would advise to simply stick to the facts, don't let your emotions or opinions interfere. Their parenting style may be something completely different than your views on what may work for their kid.
Your role isn't to discipline a child, it's to connect with them and their parents.
The foundations built in this relationship will be truth, trust, and care. Your helping to show that this framework as a Christ follower is valuable in their lives.
We love each of you much and pray that your week goes well.
This speaks of engaging and connecting with kids and parents. Building a foundation in the lives of families will help them connect with Jesus better and impact the world more.
As a newer parent I've learned that I value the truth regarding my daughter. Whenever she spends time with others or we pick her up from a baby sitter the first things we always ask, or at least what's always told to us, is normally about how she behaved.
We want to know was she fussy, did she throw a fit, did she listen well, etc. We're aware that she is often good and sweet, and that she can name lots of animals and often won't stop talking. Those are great things and we love hearing about them from other people.
But, mostly we want to hear about her actual attitudes and behavior to know what we can improve on. If you were to tell me that she was acting poorly or bit you three times these are things we need to work on at home.
In the same hand when she uses her manners and eats decently we want to praise her for being good.
As a leader in Family Life Ministries you can show love through giving parents these tiny details about their kids. They'll appreciate that you paid attention to their kids and care about their family.
If you notice that a kid was really interested in a story or paid attention well let them know. When their kid used their manners or helped a friend out. These are great things parents want to know.
Sometimes communicating bad behaviors can seem difficult depending on the situation and your relationship with the parent. I would advise to simply stick to the facts, don't let your emotions or opinions interfere. Their parenting style may be something completely different than your views on what may work for their kid.
Your role isn't to discipline a child, it's to connect with them and their parents.
The foundations built in this relationship will be truth, trust, and care. Your helping to show that this framework as a Christ follower is valuable in their lives.
We love each of you much and pray that your week goes well.
Tuesday, October 6, 2015
Showing Up
Hello amazing team,
Let me start by saying Family Life Ministries simply does not happen without you.
Joe and I can plan, and create, and design, and work all week long. But at the end of the day - it's not until you SHOW UP that God begins working on hearts and families are blessed.
Ministry is more than just SHOWING UP though. When you arrive to serve in Family Life Ministries you're helping to Impact Future Generations for Jesus and making a difference in little lives and their families. You're serving in a role designed to teach and inspire our most precious people.
But SHOWING UP is often . . . not enough. As leaders your best tool is to be ENGAGED!
When I get home from work as often need 20-30 minutes to relax and regroup. But Piper hasn't seen her daddy all day and rotates around me like the moon around the earth. She follows me as I take off my shoes, as I go grab water, and when I finally sit she's not satisfied with sitting directly next to me. She has to be right on top of me and begging for me to pay her 100% attention.
These are such critical moments in her life. If I chose to ignore her for 5 minutes when she most wants to be near me it can leave a lasting impression on her that I'm disengaged.
Serving is all about ENGAGEMENT. How you respond and communicate to kids may not seem like a big deal at the time. But kids are going to connect with leaders who ENGAGE in them rather than just SHOW UP. When they grow up they may not remember every detail of the lessons you taught or be able to recite the entire "Lord's Prayer." But, they will remember a leader who was kind at all times, when someone was interested in them, and when someone showed them love.
These lasting impression give them the best example of what a Christ follower should be like. They'll base so much of their walk with God on what they experienced in these early years.
When you walk through the doors of Family Life Ministries we're expecting you to ENGAGE.
Families depend on it. Think of this one hour as your chance to leave such an impact in these little lives that they desire to walk closer to God. How do you accomplish that? ENGAGE in them.
Thanks again for all you do. We love you much and pray for you often!
Monday, March 9, 2015
Morning Worship Mondays -Oceans
...because you can never have too much of Oceans by Hillsong United.
Live Session Oceans
There is something so warming about this song that we can't get enough of in our house. Then all of a sudden chills come when you get to this part of the song:
Imagine the difference your week could be if we started our Monday off in the presence of Jesus. He wants to do the day with you! He wants to lead you and take you deeper even while you're at work or folding laundry today.
Just because you're back to your mundane don't push aside that feeling of Jesus being with you. His presence is the same on Sunday as it is right now while reading this post. Invite him in to your Monday and see what happens!
xo Ashley & Ben
Live Session Oceans
There is something so warming about this song that we can't get enough of in our house. Then all of a sudden chills come when you get to this part of the song:
"Spirit lead me where my trust is without boarders
let me walk upon the waters wherever you would call me.
Take me deeper then my feet could ever wander
and my faith will be made stronger
in the presence of my Savior."
Imagine the difference your week could be if we started our Monday off in the presence of Jesus. He wants to do the day with you! He wants to lead you and take you deeper even while you're at work or folding laundry today.
Just because you're back to your mundane don't push aside that feeling of Jesus being with you. His presence is the same on Sunday as it is right now while reading this post. Invite him in to your Monday and see what happens!
xo Ashley & Ben
Monday, February 23, 2015
Morning Worship Mondays
Hey Team!
Because everyone needs a little pick me up on Mondays…..
Because everyone needs a little pick me up on Mondays…..
and what better way then to hear a song about God's love story to us?
Follow the link to hear Lamb of God by Vertical Church Band.
Can't wait to see everyone & your families Friday for our THANK YOU Event and some family trivia at Doubles. Check planning center for more details OR if you still need to RSVP.
Happy Monday!
Tuesday, February 17, 2015
Connecting With Purpose
A new family walked into The Lil Rippers one Sunday morning recently. I could tell the kid was reluctant to come in the room. "Sure it looks fun, but there are a lot of kids, and honestly church is kind of a weird place anyway. I think I'd rather be home having fun on my own."
I could just see the thoughts pouring from his face.
Whenever a new visitor comes through our doors I try my best to meet them and spend a minute or two just introducing myself and the room. But, more importantly is getting to know the kid. It's often so difficult to remember the names of kids, especially when we have 50-60 in one room at times. I'm convinced there are kids who have been attending for several months and I couldn't tell you their names if you paid me. The new Digital Check In system prints off stickers with names thankfully, so that's not really an issue anymore.
Getting to really know a kid or connect with one is another level though. In the situation I mentioned above, which is pretty common, I made it a point to remember this kid's name. I also focused on him and asked specific questions about what he liked to do. "Do you like sports, or movies, have ever tried surfing, do you play video games, what's your favorite thing to do when you get home from school?" These little hints helped to get to know him and once he mentioned ONE small thing I could latch on and just stick to that.
He said he liked skateboarding. I know a thing or two but not expert level info on skateboarding. We chatted about it for a minute mainly focusing on him.
The next Sunday when I saw him in the hall all I had to say was "Hey _____, did you get to skateboard a little this week?" His face lit up. It was screaming "He remembers me!"
Remembering ONE small thing about a kid can change their perspective on leaders, church, you, God, adults, and so much more. It proves that you can be relevant and care about their specific life.
It's part of our VISION to Impact Future Generations. What better way than to actually CONNECT with them?
How many kids do you know? This Sunday memorize one child and one thing about them
Thanks for being intentional every Sunday you serve!
Ben & Ashley Kingdon
I could just see the thoughts pouring from his face.
Whenever a new visitor comes through our doors I try my best to meet them and spend a minute or two just introducing myself and the room. But, more importantly is getting to know the kid. It's often so difficult to remember the names of kids, especially when we have 50-60 in one room at times. I'm convinced there are kids who have been attending for several months and I couldn't tell you their names if you paid me. The new Digital Check In system prints off stickers with names thankfully, so that's not really an issue anymore.
Getting to really know a kid or connect with one is another level though. In the situation I mentioned above, which is pretty common, I made it a point to remember this kid's name. I also focused on him and asked specific questions about what he liked to do. "Do you like sports, or movies, have ever tried surfing, do you play video games, what's your favorite thing to do when you get home from school?" These little hints helped to get to know him and once he mentioned ONE small thing I could latch on and just stick to that.
He said he liked skateboarding. I know a thing or two but not expert level info on skateboarding. We chatted about it for a minute mainly focusing on him.
The next Sunday when I saw him in the hall all I had to say was "Hey _____, did you get to skateboard a little this week?" His face lit up. It was screaming "He remembers me!"
Remembering ONE small thing about a kid can change their perspective on leaders, church, you, God, adults, and so much more. It proves that you can be relevant and care about their specific life.
It's part of our VISION to Impact Future Generations. What better way than to actually CONNECT with them?
How many kids do you know? This Sunday memorize one child and one thing about them
3. Show FRAMEWORK of a Christ follower c. Engage & Connect with kids & parents :: attend events with kids.
Thanks for being intentional every Sunday you serve!
Ben & Ashley Kingdon
Monday, February 16, 2015
Morning Worship Mondays
Didn't you just LOVE the new song our band played on Sunday monring?
I sure did!
Here's the original version of the song, Unstoppable God, by Elevation Church. Just a little Monday morning pick up to remind you that He reigns, UNSTOPPABLE in every moment of your day. Hope you're having a great one!
Unstoppable God by Elevation Church
Ashley & Ben
I sure did!
Here's the original version of the song, Unstoppable God, by Elevation Church. Just a little Monday morning pick up to remind you that He reigns, UNSTOPPABLE in every moment of your day. Hope you're having a great one!
Unstoppable God by Elevation Church
Ashley & Ben
Monday, February 9, 2015
Morning Worship Monday
As Ben and I have been dreaming of our year and the things we want to incorporate and share with you in the next
325 days
7809 hours
468570 minutes
28114192 seconds
left of 2015.
We thought of training, events, success stories, and tips, but something stood out. Worship. Looking back, in times when we've grown deeper in our faith we realized how BIG a part worship played in drawing us closer to the person that Jesus is.
We want to share that with you.
So on some Mondays we will send out Morning Worship Monday posts. You'll never notice the impact "background noise" can make in your day at work in your headphones or at home with the kids until you make that "background noise" worship music.
So, today, enjoy this beautiful song called Jesus We Love You by Bethel Church.
follow this link:
Hoping you have a great day today. Thanks for all you do!
Ashley & Ben
Monday, January 12, 2015
Vision Casting
2015. It's still weird to write, say, and think that this year is already here.
As I look back at the past year I'm impressed by what God did through Family Life Ministries. I feel blessed by what God did in my own personal life. And I'm excited about what God will do over the next 12 months.
But as I look back it also forces me to look forward as well. I look back to see where I'm coming from to project what the future may look like. When I finally look back on 2015 I want to be able to say "I'm closer to God this year then I've ever been!"
In The Lil Rippers we've been teaching something similar and to be honest it's not an easy task. We have jobs, families, school events, work events, church events, life events (I'm abusing the word events now aren't I?), etc. We're busy people and to take a step back and choose to spend MORE time with God seems impossible.
The truth is giving God MORE doesn't always mean more time, money, or even energy. Sometimes it just means more faith, more trust, more appreciation, or more invite in your life.
Getting closer to God can be as simple as recognizing Him in the small things every day. It could be deciding to pray each day when you wake up and go to sleep. Or it could be finally making that phone call you've been putting off.
At Coastline Community Church we have a 4 part Vision. Part of that Vision is "To Impact Future Generations For Christ." This makes our job simple, everything we do should be to impact future generations. If you walk in the office and catch me responding to an email, see me buying things at Walmart, or hear me talking to someone on the phone - it's because I want to value the time given to me this year to impact future generations.
If I can stick to that one goal throughout the year it makes decisions much easier. If it doesn't align with my the Vision it may not be important enough to pursue.
Further, each ministry within Family Life Ministries has their very own 3 part vision. When it comes to the individual ministries, we focus on those 3 things all year long. You can check out the Vision for volunteers and kids on our blog page under the "Volunteer Vision Plan" tab if you're interested.
As you plan your year or dream of what could be ahead - allow God to speak to your heart and cast Vision in your own life!
James 4:8 "Draw near to God and He will draw near to you."
Proverbs 29:18 "Where there is no vision, people will perish."
We love you each much and are praying for you and yours!
Ben and Ashley Kingdon
Family Life Ministries
As I look back at the past year I'm impressed by what God did through Family Life Ministries. I feel blessed by what God did in my own personal life. And I'm excited about what God will do over the next 12 months.
But as I look back it also forces me to look forward as well. I look back to see where I'm coming from to project what the future may look like. When I finally look back on 2015 I want to be able to say "I'm closer to God this year then I've ever been!"
In The Lil Rippers we've been teaching something similar and to be honest it's not an easy task. We have jobs, families, school events, work events, church events, life events (I'm abusing the word events now aren't I?), etc. We're busy people and to take a step back and choose to spend MORE time with God seems impossible.
The truth is giving God MORE doesn't always mean more time, money, or even energy. Sometimes it just means more faith, more trust, more appreciation, or more invite in your life.
Getting closer to God can be as simple as recognizing Him in the small things every day. It could be deciding to pray each day when you wake up and go to sleep. Or it could be finally making that phone call you've been putting off.
At Coastline Community Church we have a 4 part Vision. Part of that Vision is "To Impact Future Generations For Christ." This makes our job simple, everything we do should be to impact future generations. If you walk in the office and catch me responding to an email, see me buying things at Walmart, or hear me talking to someone on the phone - it's because I want to value the time given to me this year to impact future generations.
If I can stick to that one goal throughout the year it makes decisions much easier. If it doesn't align with my the Vision it may not be important enough to pursue.
Further, each ministry within Family Life Ministries has their very own 3 part vision. When it comes to the individual ministries, we focus on those 3 things all year long. You can check out the Vision for volunteers and kids on our blog page under the "Volunteer Vision Plan" tab if you're interested.
As you plan your year or dream of what could be ahead - allow God to speak to your heart and cast Vision in your own life!
James 4:8 "Draw near to God and He will draw near to you."
Proverbs 29:18 "Where there is no vision, people will perish."
We love you each much and are praying for you and yours!
Ben and Ashley Kingdon
Family Life Ministries
Saturday, October 11, 2014
1Day FUN Day Training!
Hey guys,
Thanks for saving the date! Saturday, October 18th. Look over this flyer for our unique and exciting training event for volunteers and mingle time for the whole family!
Please RSVP via Planning Center.
Can't wait to spend the afternoon with you!
Pastor Ben & Ashley Kingdon
Thanks for saving the date! Saturday, October 18th. Look over this flyer for our unique and exciting training event for volunteers and mingle time for the whole family!
Please RSVP via Planning Center.
Can't wait to spend the afternoon with you!
Pastor Ben & Ashley Kingdon
Wednesday, October 1, 2014
Big News For The Fall Season!
Hi Family Life Ministries Team,
Fall is here! Think cool(ish) breezes, fun holidays, and family time. We love this time of year in the Kingdon household and wait on every opportuntity to throw on a fire in the fire place. Sometimes we cheat and just turn the AC down, shhh don't tell!
We have some exciting things happening in our ministries and wanted to give you an idea of what's to come:
In November we're rolling out an all new DIGITAL Check In! This software will boost our safety, efficiency, gather info, and will help track attendance. Each classroom will dawn a crisp IPAD and badge printer. The only thing missing is you!
We want you to have a first look at the software and get a chance to familiarize yourself with Check In. Even if you find yourself a little less tech-savy than your 3 year old neighbor, you can still work this simple to use system!
On Saturday, October 18 we are hosting a training day to talk all things FLM. This will be a crucial event to attend if you or your children serve in FLM. We'll cover topics like Dress Code: You're on the floor, twirling with kids, picking things up, so things need to be covered up! We'll talk training like: Check in Systems, how to keep kids attention, and making an impact.
A formal invite for this event is to follow. It's going to be a GREAT time to learn and get to know one another!
Then, on Friday, October 24 we will have a Family Life Ministries event to invite all families with children ages 0-12 try out the system. We'll also enjoy a movie and popcorn together! A formal invite to all families will follow.
You are such a fantastic team! Thank you for taking the time to strengthen our ministries through training! You are making an impact!
Pastor Ben & Ashley Kingdon
Tuesday, September 9, 2014
Welcome Wes & Cathy
Hello FLM Team!
Thank you for making safety in our wing such an IMPORTANT part of our Sundays! You are all so incredible about going out of your way to make sure our kids stay safe and protected in our classrooms during check in and check out!
Since you are always on guard for people walking our hall once service starts we wanted to let you know of two key people who you may see roaming often.
Wes & Cathy Matejka have recently stepped up to quarterback for Coastline's "I Heart My Church" Ministries such as Parking lot, Ushers, Greeters, Welcome Tent, New Believers, and Security Team. We try to keep the foot traffic to a minimum for the kids protection (and focus) once service has started but you will see Wes and Cathy hustling through our hall at some point making the I Heart My Church Ministries run smooth. Just keeping you in the loop!
If any of you would ever like to step up and take a more lead role in Family Life Ministries please listen to the call on your heart and speak up! There are always more opportunities to dive in to a bigger role suited for for! Just contact Ben or myself with your thoughts.
Thanks again for your keen eye for safety as we shepherd this little flock together!
1Peter 5:2 "Be shepherds of God's flock that is under your care, watching over them - not because you must, but because you are willing, as God wants you to."
With Love,
Ashley Kingdon
Ashley Kingdon
Saturday, August 9, 2014
Volunteer and Family Party!
Our Summer Blockbuster is almost over so mark your calendars one last time for the summer!
Can't wait to relax with you and your family!
See you there!
Ashley & Ben
Friday, May 30, 2014
CANCELING June 7th - Blockbuster Training
Hi incredible team,
You guys are making a difference. If you didn't get a chance to join us for the FLM Volunteer Thank Event at Galaxy Skateway be sure to pick up your gift this Sunday from The Lil Rippers room.
As you may be aware, Ashley's mother is currently in the hospital again in Memphis, TN. She's in a critical condition and the situation is getting worse by the day. The doctors are urging that family come and visit soon as she is coming to the end of her story.
You may see us in and out of town throughout the next few weeks or months, but please keep communications with Ashley & myself unless noted otherwise later.
Along with this, we are CANCELING the JUNE 7th Blockbuster Training Day. We will reschedule this date to a later time and update you as soon as plans are made. We are so looking forward to prepping all of us for ministry as a team! So sorry we must post pone.
Join us in prayer for Ashley's family as they discuss hard choices with her mom and enjoy the remaining time they have together.
Thanks for your hard work, understanding, patience, and simply who you are. We appreciate you banding together on our behalf and for FLM.
We love you guys much and are praying for your families!
Pastor Ben
Wednesday, May 14, 2014
Save The Date & Last Spring Blockbuster Notes
There are only TWO more Sundays in our SPRING BLOCKBUSTER! What a great Spring we've had! Here are three announcements you will want to know about!
//First…
It's time to party! Our End of Spring Blockbuster Party is Sat. May 24th at Galaxy Skateway from 1PM - 3PM! All of our Family Life Ministry Volunteers and their families are invited to a FREE night of skating. Come celebrate another awesome 3 months of serving the great kids at Coastline.
*Please tell the front desk you are here with Coastline for your free ticket and skate rental. Next, find Ben & Ashley upon your arrival for your thank you gift!
//Secondly…
We are about to jump into our SUMMER Blockbuster for June, July, August 2014! If you haven't already sent in your vaca and o-o-t dates please do so soon as we are creating the blockbuster this coming week for your review.
//Lastly!
We have an event coming up that's a first of it's kind!!
Make every effort to attend this mandatory training event for all FLM volunteers. We will be giving you tools & training to make your volunteering experience successful and exciting!
We will have inflatables, lunch, sno cones, and supervision outside from 10AM -1:30PM in the circle drive for you and your family to enjoy!
There will also be a list of breakout training classes for you, the volunteer, to attend per ministry you serve. If you're not in a class feel free to hang outside with your family & mingle with other volunteers until your next class begins.
The breakout class schedule will be posted along with more information & a formal RSVP soon. Until then, please SAVE THE DATE!
P.S. Thank you for your support and prayers for our family! We LOVE doing life with you!
Ashley & Ben Kingdon
//First…
It's time to party! Our End of Spring Blockbuster Party is Sat. May 24th at Galaxy Skateway from 1PM - 3PM! All of our Family Life Ministry Volunteers and their families are invited to a FREE night of skating. Come celebrate another awesome 3 months of serving the great kids at Coastline.
*Please tell the front desk you are here with Coastline for your free ticket and skate rental. Next, find Ben & Ashley upon your arrival for your thank you gift!
//Secondly…
We are about to jump into our SUMMER Blockbuster for June, July, August 2014! If you haven't already sent in your vaca and o-o-t dates please do so soon as we are creating the blockbuster this coming week for your review.
//Lastly!
We have an event coming up that's a first of it's kind!!
Family Life Ministry Breakout Training Day
Please save the date for Sat. June 7th from 10AM - 1:30PM at Coastline
We will have inflatables, lunch, sno cones, and supervision outside from 10AM -1:30PM in the circle drive for you and your family to enjoy!
There will also be a list of breakout training classes for you, the volunteer, to attend per ministry you serve. If you're not in a class feel free to hang outside with your family & mingle with other volunteers until your next class begins.
The breakout class schedule will be posted along with more information & a formal RSVP soon. Until then, please SAVE THE DATE!
P.S. Thank you for your support and prayers for our family! We LOVE doing life with you!
Ashley & Ben Kingdon
Tuesday, April 8, 2014
Moving Up & Moving On
::Moving Up::
Our Coastline kids get so excited at their birthday. Not only do they get a party & presents at home but many parents have mentioned that their 5 year old talks non stop about moving up into Lil Rippers!
When a child moves up into "the big kid class" they get a really cool moving up gift that has a t-shirt, cd, info letters, and some toys!
The first couple weeks can be scary or overwhelming but as leaders in any class it's our job to help the kids feel welcome and meet new friends. Match up two kids and ask them to sit together or to show their new friend things around their cool new room! A little attention goes along way.
Logan Benton just moved up into little Rippers in March when he turned 6 years old. He was an outstanding kid in Treehouse- helping the younger 4 & 5's but now he's a little fish in a big pond and he can't get enough of it! Mom says it's so different waking him up for school vs. waking him up for church!
You are making church FUN and EXCITING for kids of all ages! Thank you for your efforts in being yourself and a little goofy to make kids feel at home in God's house! It wouldn't be the same with out you! You are creating a legacy through FLM!
::Moving On::
Let me take another moment to share what a great job Susan Zipperer did while I was away on maternity leave! Things kept going without a hitch thanks to her leadership and your dedication to FLM. So great to know that I work with such a valuable team that the wheels keep turning without me. Thank you Susan and everyone else for supporting Ben and I during my time off to be with little Piper!
I'm officially back, working Sunday, Monday, and Tuesdays. Please resume contacting me with any Early Childhood things. You'll see Susan around as she resume volunteering with the Lil Rippers. I know those kids missed her too!
Here's Susan with her Thank you flowers from the team!
… & incase you haven't met our baby, Piper Emmalene Kingdon, here's a blog post of her from Lil Rippers volunteer Angel Gray from AngelGrayphotography.com
Piper Kingdon on the blog
Our Coastline kids get so excited at their birthday. Not only do they get a party & presents at home but many parents have mentioned that their 5 year old talks non stop about moving up into Lil Rippers!
When a child moves up into "the big kid class" they get a really cool moving up gift that has a t-shirt, cd, info letters, and some toys!
Experience ADVENTURE In serving
a. Experience fulfillment & growth through serving. ::Find Purpose :: Legacy
The first couple weeks can be scary or overwhelming but as leaders in any class it's our job to help the kids feel welcome and meet new friends. Match up two kids and ask them to sit together or to show their new friend things around their cool new room! A little attention goes along way.
Logan Benton just moved up into little Rippers in March when he turned 6 years old. He was an outstanding kid in Treehouse- helping the younger 4 & 5's but now he's a little fish in a big pond and he can't get enough of it! Mom says it's so different waking him up for school vs. waking him up for church!
You are making church FUN and EXCITING for kids of all ages! Thank you for your efforts in being yourself and a little goofy to make kids feel at home in God's house! It wouldn't be the same with out you! You are creating a legacy through FLM!
::Moving On::
Let me take another moment to share what a great job Susan Zipperer did while I was away on maternity leave! Things kept going without a hitch thanks to her leadership and your dedication to FLM. So great to know that I work with such a valuable team that the wheels keep turning without me. Thank you Susan and everyone else for supporting Ben and I during my time off to be with little Piper!
I'm officially back, working Sunday, Monday, and Tuesdays. Please resume contacting me with any Early Childhood things. You'll see Susan around as she resume volunteering with the Lil Rippers. I know those kids missed her too!
Here's Susan with her Thank you flowers from the team!
… & incase you haven't met our baby, Piper Emmalene Kingdon, here's a blog post of her from Lil Rippers volunteer Angel Gray from AngelGrayphotography.com
Piper Kingdon on the blog
Tuesday, March 18, 2014
Looking Sharp
Hello Fantastic Family life Ministries Team!
Don't you love going into stores in the early morning? Everything is freshly stocked and all the labels are pointed in the same direction as if they prepared the store just for you to come in and pick up your items!
Now, coming in at 6PM when everyone is off work and rushing to get home is another story. You have to reach your hand in the back of the rack just to find the right can of tomatoes! Where it the pristine look of this place! I shop in a barn! Ok, so maybe that's just me but this can be true sometimes of our Family Life Wing.
We all take great effort to prepare Sunday for our kids and volunteers to come in and things be nice, ready, and set out for you. The 8:30 service looks like a new building! Those poor 11:30 volunteers and church goers have no idea what the building looked like at 8:30 this morn. How the halls, bathrooms, toys, and teacher cabinets were pristine and stress free…
Let's continue to strive to show our fellow FLM team members and the families who attend later services that we prepared and expected them!
-After a bathroom break check that the counters are soap-spill free and floors don't have tissue scraps all over.
-After your service tidy your room and toys to show the parents we intend to keep your kids as tidy as our room looks!
-Check your cabinet and check in counters before you leave so the next volunteers can come in stress free and find the glue, pens, etc where they belong.
Simple acts of service show our church and fellow volunteers that we are taking seriously the calling God has placed over us in this community and that we will do everything to our best so that God can ultimately save and change a life in service that day!
Thank you for your amazing attention to detail!
Ashley & Ben Kingdon
Tuesday, March 4, 2014
March 90 Second Ask
Thanks for joining us for the end of Winter Blockbuster event at The Oaks Theater. As the Lego Movie repeats over, and over, and over - you guys make "Everything Awesome!"
Experience ::ADVENTURE:: in serving //recruiting others
Leading others to experience the adventure is an important part of serving! We are asking you for the month of March to participate in at least ONE "90 Second Ask"
We are starting a great new volunteer 10 step program which will help people sign up easily, interview with me or Ben, find a role that fits, and be trained in "Real Time" on Sundays while in a service.
Thanks for joining us in the "90 Second Ask" Task for March!
Ashley & Ben
Leading others to experience the adventure is an important part of serving! We are asking you for the month of March to participate in at least ONE "90 Second Ask"
What is the 90 Second Ask?
· A new way for volunteers to invite others to serve at FLM.
Why are we asking you to participate in the 90 Second Ask?
· Every Volunteer/ Leader is an inviter.
· As Coastline attendance increases we need more volunteers to fill roles at each service.
· People like to be invited to join a ministry by a friend or acquaintance.
· Coastline has a role that fits all volunteers from teaching, assisting, loving on babies, leading games, connecting with parents, etc.
Who Can You Ask?
- Parents of kids in your room.
- The person who sits next to you in the service.
- A person in your small group or circle of friends.
How do I perform the 90 Second Ask?
- First - Your personal passion – This will take 30 seconds.
- Let the person know your passion for FLM.
- Second - Personal Affirmation – This will take 30 seconds.
- Let the person know what gifts you see in them and how they could use those gifts.
- If you are speaking with a parent complement them on bringing their child to Coastline.
- If you are speaking with someone who you sit by in the service ask them to pray and fill out a connect card.
- Third – Invite them to explore a specific area – This will take 30 seconds.
- If you know them suggest a role they may want to consider.
- Encourage them to fill out a connect card on the “Plug Me In” side to get more info
We are starting a great new volunteer 10 step program which will help people sign up easily, interview with me or Ben, find a role that fits, and be trained in "Real Time" on Sundays while in a service.
Thanks for joining us in the "90 Second Ask" Task for March!
Ashley & Ben
Tuesday, February 11, 2014
Open invitation to impact
Each Sunday Parents are trusting us as a church to keep their children safe, happy, and learning for an hour and 10 minutes. What a privilege that is!
Ben and I are so grateful that our team gets it. You all are so excellent at remembering the small and repetitive details that keep our children safe.
Here's a few highlight reminders about safety in FLM:
-Our numero uno policy- No child is ever alone with a volunteer. This means an adult 18+ and another volunteer must be present anytime children are present.
-Check in safety Check for security badge numbers, names, and Lil Rippers stamps to match. This world is getting scarier and just because people are moms and dads doesn't make them safe. Those numbers need to match before a child leaves your care.
-Bathroom procedures- brush up on your very important bathroom procedures and other policies in the volunteer packet posted on our secure volunteer site!
All in all, God gave us a great opportunity, parents are in trusting us, and children are counting on us to not only show them their first impression of our Savior but to keep them in a safe environment while we do so.
Thank you all for being so efficient in our efforts for safety at Coastline!
Ashley and Ben Kingdon
//Side Note
-Spring Blockbuster is coming at you this week! Yeah!
We have an open invitation to impact these children.
We need to GUARD that God given opportunity and continue our rapport with parents.
Ben and I are so grateful that our team gets it. You all are so excellent at remembering the small and repetitive details that keep our children safe.
2. Impact with INTENT Through training
a. Guard the opportunity to plant a seed (safety/ distractions)
Here's a few highlight reminders about safety in FLM:
-Our numero uno policy- No child is ever alone with a volunteer. This means an adult 18+ and another volunteer must be present anytime children are present.
-Check in safety Check for security badge numbers, names, and Lil Rippers stamps to match. This world is getting scarier and just because people are moms and dads doesn't make them safe. Those numbers need to match before a child leaves your care.
-Bathroom procedures- brush up on your very important bathroom procedures and other policies in the volunteer packet posted on our secure volunteer site!
All in all, God gave us a great opportunity, parents are in trusting us, and children are counting on us to not only show them their first impression of our Savior but to keep them in a safe environment while we do so.
Thank you all for being so efficient in our efforts for safety at Coastline!
Ashley and Ben Kingdon
//Side Note
-Spring Blockbuster is coming at you this week! Yeah!
Tuesday, February 4, 2014
Spring Blockbuster Roles
Hellooooo Team!!
Our first Official Blockbuster is almost over. Say goodbye to Winter & HELLO SPRING!
Our Spring Blockbuster will be months of March :: April :: May
We are creating the spring blockbuster next week to post for your review. This will include the one rotation for all three months.
Please take this week to look ahead at your Spring Calendars and decide at what capacity you can serve our awesome Coastline Kids. Consider your Spring Break and Easter plans so there can be very little updates to the rotation month to month.
Want to serve two Sundays a month (if you don't already), move to a teachers role, or lead more games in Lil Rippers?
We want to know! You have a whole week to discuss with God & your family what your Spring serving God looks like. We are praying for you too!
//Side notes:
1. Save the date for our FLM Winter Blockbuster Thank You Party on Friday the 28th. More details to follow!
2. You should've received an "e-vite" for a Sip and See hosted by volunteer Katie Mulvhill. It's Sat the 15th 11AM - 2PM and it's a come and go/ meet and greet at our home to meet our soon coming baby girl, Piper since Sundays are so busy! We'd love if you could swing in. If you didn't receive this e-vite e-mail us for details.
Talk with you soon!
Ashley Kingdon
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)