The Secret to a Great Vacation Bible School
6 Ways To Create A VBS Week Children Will Never Forget
With the summer months in full swing, many churches across the country are busy planning and implementing some form of Vacation Bible School (or VBS). Vacation Bible School has been a staple in many churches for over a century. The origin of VBS dates back to the late 1800s and early 1900s, when the original format lasted for six weeks. This program was started to target children in poor urban neighborhoods and give Sunday Bible School teachers more time to adequately teach children God’s word. Today, most VBS programs last only a few days, but they remain a major outreach tool for churches—both big and small.
It’s no mystery that organizing and executing a successful VBS is a major undertaking. It requires planning, financial investments, advertising, decorating, teaching, and several willing volunteers. By the end of VBS week, church workers are exhausted, and the church building often needs a good cleaning. But I assure you—Vacation Bible School is worth it. This is something I wrote about last year, and you can read that post below if you’re on the fence about the value of having a VBS.
I am convinced that churches can still offer a great Vacation Bible School that blesses the congregation and community alike. Having a great VBS is more than flashy decorations—it’s ultimately a combination of planning, purpose, and passion. VBS can help build faith, reach souls, and sow seeds for the kingdom, one summer at a time. Here are six key elements that contribute to a successful and impactful VBS:
1. Christ-Centered Teaching
Vacation Bible School began as a way to teach children God’s word, and that focus should never be forgotten. The primary goal of every VBS should be to teach biblical truths clearly and faithfully, all while pointing people to Jesus. Jesus once told some of his disciples that everything in the Scriptures is ultimately about him (see Luke 24:44). Even as we study memorable Bible characters and stories, we must not let Jesus be forgotten. He is the ultimate hero of the Bible, and all of Scripture is ultimately his story. Therefore, our goal in VBS should be to use age-appropriate lessons to communicate who God is, what Jesus has done, and how we can respond in faith to the work of Christ on our behalf.
2. An Engaging Theme
The Bible is not boring! The writer of Hebrews described God’s word as “living and active” (Hebrews 4:12). It is relevant, applicable, and transformative. Sadly, we can easily make Scripture appear dull or irrelevant by how we communicate it. That’s why it’s important to create a theme that captures children’s attention and helps reinforce the message of Jesus.
The Savior often used this approach in his teaching. Jesus “spoke to the crowds in parables” (Matthew 13:35), using relatable themes to help his audience understand the truths of the kingdom. Similarly, a good VBS theme allows us to connect the Bible to real life in an interesting and relevant way.
3. A Welcoming Environment
Creating a welcoming, clean, and safe environment for Vacation Bible School is crucial. Whether we realize it or not, the church building sets the tone for everything else before a single song is sung or a Bible verse is read. It creates a strong first impression.
During VBS, many churches are able to reach newcomers. That means what visitors see in our buildings may be their first impression of the church. Our guests need to feel welcomed, safe, and assured that we take ministry seriously. If the space is cluttered, chaotic, unsafe, or unclean, many guests will not return.
Take steps to ensure the building is up-to-date, clean, and visually welcoming. Decorate and transform the space into a fun, exciting VBS experience. Prioritize safety with tools like name tags, check-in and check-out systems, clear rules, adult supervision, and well-structured schedules.
4. Organization
Vacation Bible School requires advance planning—often months in advance. That planning includes selecting the date, determining the theme, structuring the schedule, writing lessons, recruiting volunteers, and thoroughly advertising in the community.
When time and preparation are lacking, VBS can become a frustrating burden for the local church. A poorly planned VBS overwhelms volunteers, wastes opportunities, and may result in a week full of snacks and games that’s lacking spiritual substance.
Remember: Vacation Bible School isn’t just another event on the calendar—it’s a mission opportunity for Jesus that deserves prayer, planning, and passion!
5. Membership Involvement
Church workers are the backbone of a smooth and successful Vacation Bible School. Every aspect of VBS requires people who are willing to plan, coordinate, and volunteer their time and talents. This is one of the greatest blessings of having a VBS—it unites the church in service.
We need people to lead singing, teach lessons, help with crafts and games, serve snacks, and so much more. We also need artistic members to decorate and patient helpers to assist the children as they move, play, and learn God’s word. A successful VBS is never a one-person show. It thrives when the church comes together with enthusiasm and a willingness to serve.
6. Follow-Up
In my view, intentional follow-up is one of the most overlooked parts of church outreach. Many churches host events throughout the year, but many often fail to take the essential step of following up.
VBS may only last a few days, but what happens afterward determines whether the seeds planted during that week will grow or be forgotten. VBS has the potential to be a gateway—an entry point for newcomers or the start of someone’s journey to Jesus. That’s why it’s vital to collect attendee contact information and follow through.
Send a personal thank-you note along with information about your church. This shows you care beyond VBS and invites people into deeper connection. Another great idea is to host a VBS Celebration Party to recap the week, share pictures, and enjoy food and fellowship with the children and their families.
Follow-up is where the seeds of VBS are watered—don’t let them go to waste!
Conclusion
Vacation Bible School is more than a fun summer tradition—it’s a powerful tool for strengthening local churches and reaching communities. Yes, it takes planning, time, money, and energy, but the impact is absolutely worth it.
When done well, the things that happen in just a few short days of VBS can have eternal significance. So if your church has never offered a VBS, consider making this the year. And if VBS is already part of your church calendar, commit to doing it better than ever.
Don’t settle for simply having a Vacation Bible School. Commit to having a great one—for the glory of God, the good of the children, and the growth of the kingdom!