A training session is an excellent way to overview the VBS program with your volunteers.
- Start with a prayer. Emphasize the importance of spending time in prayer as they prepare for the week of VBS.
- Allow enough time for introductions. Have everyone introduce themselves and share something fun about their summer holidays. Play an ice breaker game to help everyone get to know each other. We suggest you use “Signing the Royal Scroll” from the Games Leader Guide.
- Hand out a program overview and schedule.
- Play the Cool Kingdom Party VBS video. Get the leaders excited for your upcoming VBS.
- Give an overview of the themes and virtues of each day.
- Run through a sample VBS Day.
- Play the action song video I Wanna Say Yes and have everyone join in on the actions.
- Encourage your leaders to listen to the VBS songs at home before the week starts. The leaders can access all the music and videos here. There are two different versions available for all the Cool Kingdom action song videos. The original videos are featured on the DVD. The new videos are only available digitally.
- Explain emergency procedures and fire evacuation plan.
- Have a question and answer period.
- Give station leaders time to meet with their volunteers to organize and prepare their lesson plans.
- Have the skit team practice the skits and distribute the roles for each day.
- Begin decoration prep (ex. group banners).
- End with a prayer.
- Offer snacks and refreshments.
