Kidologist's Zone

Can kids really come to faith in Jesus? Should they be baptized—and if so, when? In this encouraging and practical article, Pastor Karl Bastian explores what Scripture says about childlike faith and salvation, clarifies the role of baptism in a child’s spiritual journey, and shares wise counsel for guiding both parents and children. Through a touching story of one young girl’s determination to obey Jesus, Karl reminds us that when a child is truly ready to be baptized, they’ll express that readiness with clarity and conviction. You’ll come away equipped to celebrate genuine faith in children while helping them take meaningful steps of obedience—at the right time and for the right reasons.

In a world that glorifies hustle, rest can feel like a luxury—or worse, laziness.

Children’s ministry is the perfect place for big dreams!

As ministry leaders, we need to treat praise like a relay baton, not a trophy.

Do everything as if for the Lord. 

We are never more like Christ than when we choose to forgive.

Being teachable doesn’t mean you’re unsure of your calling. 

Download this guide to help your volunteers pray with kids.

Listening is more than a ministry skill — it’s a spiritual posture.

When you consistently teach from the Bible, you’re not only shaping young minds, you’re shaping their habits.

You never know how much someone needs encouragement until you take the time to ask.

The health of a ministry begins with the health of its leader.

"Read the Bible" - Let's admit it, sometimes that is easier said than done!

“Pray first.” It sounds so simple—yet when the demands of ministry and life pull us in a hundred different directions, that single command can transform our day.

12 Commitments for a Ministry that Pleases the Lord

We are entrusted with the incredible privilege of loving and leading God’s precious children. Some may need a little extra care and support due to special needs or behavior challenges.

Support parents in guiding their children toward a biblical perspective on challenges. 

Children are not merely the future of the church; they are a vital part of it now.

Let’s be honest. Kids Ministry is TOUGH. Yes, it is full of joy, but it seems equally loaded with challenges.

Here’s a basic list of Questions for a Children’s Pastor, designed to assess their theological understanding, pastoral calling, ministry philosophy, and practical approach to children’s ministry. These questions ensure that the candidate is spiritually prepared and doctrinally sound for the role. Adapt, add or edit according to the needs of your unique ministry. Can also be used for Ordination.

7 lessons Karl has learned that can help you sustain your ministry without losing your soul, your family, or your joy.

A fun interactive team game that illustrates reaching others to rescue them by sharing the Good News of Jesus!

5 practical applications that can inspire us to be “Honest Abe’s” for the children of this generation.

Josh McDowell’s story is compelling. A former atheist, he set out to disprove Christianity.

Pastor Karl Bastian, children's pastor and founder of Kidology.org - and graduate of Moody Bible Institute of Chicago, Illinois, was honored in the Moody Alumni Magazine in the Winter 2025 edition.

Why did Pastor Karl start his UN-Conference called Yosemite Summit for men in children's ministry?

Dwight L. Moody is a name that stands tall in the history of evangelism.

A Mini Lesson on the Armor of God featuring an Activity Sheet with BOTH a male and female soldier in the Armor of God and the armor listed (out of order) so the kids have to draw a line to match the armor name with the correct armor on the Soldier of God.

Corrie ten Boom's story is a powerful reminder of what it means to live a life of faith, courage, and conviction.

Tina Houser was one of the most creative and prolific content creators I have ever known.

Henrietta Cornelia Mears was one of the most influential Christian educators of the 20th century, shaping the future of Sunday School and profoundly impacting children’s ministry.

Albert Einstein is widely regarded as one of the greatest scientific minds in history. Could you be nurturing the next great mind?

Kidology started in 1994 while the Internet was still a mystery to most people. There was no eBay, PayPal, YouTube, or Google, and Amazon had just barely launched.

As you think about your gifts this season, I encourage you to prayerfully consider the ministries that are making a difference for Jesus.

Table Talkers are the perfect solution to kickstart family conversations and incorporate spiritual growth into everyday life.

This is Karl's version of the beautiful fable of The Three Trees. Ideal for Christmas or Easter.

Take your kids to Narnia and back!

A fun, interactive activity where kids physically vote on how hard it is to wait on different things they have to be patient for.

The Ultimate Toolbox for Children’s Ministry is packed with practical, organized, and ready-to-use tools. It is NOT just another book — it’s a lifesaver.

Try this simple, interactive, and educational way to help kids stay focused on the Reason for the Season!

Explore the critical "Why, What, When, Where, Who, and How" of event planning.  

How can we encourage our kids to ask questions and truly grasp what they’re reading in the Bible?

Did you know that on-going training not only helps retain volunteers but also empowers them to serve more effectively?

We must get outside the walls of our church to reach those who won't enter the walls of our church!

This is a fun activity for little learners to practice washing feet. 

There's a way to get MORE done in LESS time!

Learn helpful tips to better communicate with parents in your ministry!

How do we reach out to children with special needs and behavioral challenges in our ministry?

"Happy Birthday, Pastor Karl, from your AI Friend!"

In children’s ministry, crises are a guarantee. It's not if, but when.