Kidology University - Equipping Leaders, Empowering Ministry
Kidology's Online Children's Ministry University* is the most affordable and comprehensive online training program for children's ministry leaders. Built on the largest digital collection of kidmin resources from the first children's ministry website—Kidology.org, founded in 1994—The Kidology University (KID U) delivers practical, easy-to-understand training to equip both lay and professional leaders for success in ministry.
THE REALITY: Most children's ministry leaders are part-time. Many found themselves in charge after expressing concern for their church's children's ministry. Many lack formal training and face challenges like limited time, flexibility, or the budget to pursue it. Traditional education and even more affordable certificate programs, while valuable, are often prohibitively expensive.
THE SOLUTION: The Kidology University* offers a flexible, engaging online experience designed to equip you for success in children's ministry. Through a combination of on-demand videos, live interactions, practical assignments, insightful reading, and group discussions, you’ll progress at your own pace. The program features 12 comprehensive modules, all aimed at helping you become the best leader you can be. (See complete overview here.)
THE OFFERING:
The Kidology University offers two levels of access to suit your needs:
- Kidology ALL ACCESS Membership AUDIT ACCESS
- Included free with a Kidology ALL ACCESS Membership, this level provides free access to video trainings and training notes for self-study at your own pace, with no additional cost.
- You are not required to complete assignments or end-of-unit assessments.
- Think of it as auditing a class: you benefit from the instruction, but no credit or certification is provided for completing the course.
- However, you also miss out on the personal coaching and interactive experienced outlined below available through enrollment.
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Kidology University ENROLLMENT
- Enrollment opens the door to a personalized experience and exclusive benefits, while remaining highly affordable.
Requirements:
- An active Kidology ALL ACCESS Membership is necessary. (Check the scholarship page for discounts available to students, missionaries, and small churches.)
- A one-time enrollment fee of $240 provides lifetime access.**
Benefits:
- Membership in the exclusive KID U Facebook Group, where you can interact with Karl Bastian (Kidology’s founder and lead instructor), fellow students, and guest instructors. This access continues even after graduation.**
- Monthly KID U Coaching Zoom Calls, offering exclusive guidance and encouragement on practical topics often determined by students.
- At least one personalized Coaching Call with Karl Bastian to discuss your ministry or other topics, with a 50% discount on future coaching calls.
- Invitation to the Coaching Summit in Colorado.
- A Graduation Certificate upon course completion and letter of recommendation from Karl Bastian you can add to your résumé.
- Access to future KID U units for ongoing education in children’s ministry as they are added.**
- Additional perks and surprises reserved exclusively for enrolled students—because we like to keep a few things under wraps!
- ** Access remains as long as your Kidology Membership is active.
THE BOTTOM LINE:
You’re already part of Kidology.org for its creative ideas, curriculum, training tools, recruiting resources, family ministry ideas, event planning guides, Gospel tools, and countless other resources. Now, for the cost of enrollment, you can earn your Children’s Ministry Certificate from The Kidology University.
- If you’re currently a Kidology PLUS Member, you’ll need to upgrade to ALL ACCESS and then enroll in The Kidology University.
- If you’re already a Kidology ALL ACCESS Member, all you need to do is enroll today.
Why require enrollment when courses are free for ALL ACCESS Members?
While ALL ACCESS Members can access courses for self-study, enrollment creates a more structured and supportive experience. Practically, it helps us know who our students are. But more importantly, we recognize that self-study is easier to start than to finish. Enrolling provides the encouragement and accountability needed to see it through.
As an enrolled student, you’ll gain:
- Access to the Facebook Group for encouragement, reminders, and connection with other students.
- Invitations to Coaching Zoom Calls to guide and inspire you throughout your journey.
- A personalized Coaching Call with Karl Bastian, giving you tailored advice for your ministry.
- Additional reminders and support to help you stay on track and finish strong.
- The joy of celebrating your success with a community that’s cheering you on!
So what are you waiting for?
Upgrade if needed, and then ENROLL TODAY!
What students are saying about Kidology's online training and why we know you will find KID U an essential investment in your leadership:
Kidology's training transformed how I lead my ministry. I went from feeling overwhelmed to feeling equipped and confident. Every module is packed with practical tools I use daily.
Sarah T., Children's Ministry Director, Grace Community Church
Karl's creativity training changed my entire outlook on how I approach ministry. I didn’t realize how much untapped potential I had until Kid U helped me unlock it. Now, I’m solving problems in ways I never imagined!"
Mark R., Volunteer Leader, City Lights Church
Karl's coaching gave me a clear vision for my ministry and the tools to make it happen. His leadership training is second to none, and my team is thriving because of it.
Jessica B., Kids Pastor, New Hope Fellowship
I always thought theology was too complicated for me to teach kids, but Karl makes theology accessible and understandable by breaking it down beautifully. Now I can confidently explain even deep truths to preschoolers and preteens alike.
Dan M., Family Pastor, Cornerstone Church
"From organizing my office to planning VBS, Karl has made me an organized leader and completely changed how I manage my ministry. I’m more efficient, and my stress levels have dropped dramatically.
Rebecca C., Children’s Coordinator, First Baptist Church
Karl taught me how to effectively recruit and build a team that sticks around. I went from struggling to fill spots on Sundays to having a waiting list of volunteers!
Tom W., Children’s Ministry Director, River Valley Church
"I used to copy what other churches were doing, but "Coach Karl" taught me how to tailor ministry to meet the unique needs of my congregation. The results have been incredible.
Angela M., Kids Ministry Leader, Harvest Church
Kidology's outreach and discipleship training is a game-changer. I’ve seen kids bring their families to church because of the strategies I learned on Kidology. It’s amazing to watch lives change.
Kevin J. Kids Pastor, Faith Community Church
Karl and Kidology don't just give you tools—they give you confidence. Whether it’s teaching kids or leading a team, I feel equipped to handle whatever comes my way."
Emily S., Volunteer Leader, Hillside Bible Church
Events used to scare me! Now I feel like a pro! From planning timelines to marketing, I’ve learned how to execute big events with ease and excellence."
Rachel L., Children’s Ministry Coordinator, Crossroads Church
We can't wait to hear how KID U impacts your life and ministry!
* NOTE: The Kidology University is not an accredited institution and does not offer college credit. However, it provides real, practical training designed to equip you for ministry. Upon completion, you’ll earn a graduation certificate you can proudly display—one that demonstrates your commitment to self-study and thorough preparation. Pastors and ministry leaders will recognize and respect the effort you invested in completing this educational endeavor.
