Helpful Hints
- Read through each of the leader guides so that you have a good understanding of the daily lesson plans and activities at each station. This will also help you determine who to consider asking to be your main station leaders.
- The password to access the digital program was emailed to the person who ordered this VBS. It has all the videos, clipart, piano sheet music, t-shirt graphics, lesson plans, program overview, and all other necessary downloads for you and your leaders.
- Make any necessary changes to the program in order to best suit your VBS needs.
- Request that all kids be dropped off on time every day so the program can begin on schedule.
- The kids can receive a Great Journey Mini Map to collect stickers or stamps as they check-in each day and “venture” through each season of the church year.
- Give the children and station leaders a five minute signal (by ringing a bell) before the station changer so they can begin to prepare or finish up what they are working on.
- On the first and last day of VBS, consider extending the day an extra 15 to 30 minutes to allow more time for the opening and closing assemblies (and closing celebration). Decide if you want to have a closing Mass.
- Give Great Journey coins (color - B&W) as a reward for great behavior, winning a game, answering questions, cleaning up, etc. Kids can redeem their coins for cool prizes.
- At the end of each day, hand out (or email) the Take Home Sheets. Download the files and make any text changes. This is a great way for parents to connect with their children’s experience of VBS.
Dealing with Emergencies
- Have a few first aid kits available.
- Have the registration forms accessible for each child’s parent contact information.
- Be sure to note allergies or medical conditions of children reported on registration forms. Make sure snack leaders are aware of any food allergies.
- Make a fire evacuation plan and make sure everyone is aware of it. Discuss the procedure on the first day during the opening assembly.
- For the safety of all children, ensure that each child is signed in when they are dropped off and signed out at the end of each day.
Cat.Chat is not responsible for any injury or accident that may occur during any of the suggested activities, snacks, crafts or games.












