Thursdays Are For Training – Don't Forget the Details

The countdown has started, and for many churches VBS begins in five short weeks. Once workers are enlisted it is important to make sure each one receives training that not only relieves fear and anxiety, but insures the week is a winning experience for everyone involved.
A necessary aspects of training is covering the all-important details that are unique to your VBS – the who, what, when, where, why, and how of the week. While these details may seem like common sense information that every worker should naturally know, if not stressed and complied with by every worker they can quickly sink the week.
This information is often conveyed by a fact sheet or handbook, but they also need to be covered during your training session. In fact, they need to be presented in multiple ways including written and verbally.
While some details apply to specific teams like the registration or snack teams, other details, such as the following, need to be covered with every worker no matter his assignment.

• Reimbursement policies for supplies purchased by individual workers.
• What time doors will be open each day for workers who wish to arrive early to make room preparations.
• The time workers are expected to arrive each day, as well as the time they are released to depart.
• Where to park and which building entrances to use.
• Appropriate attire.
• Food and beverage policies that cover what can and can not be served to kids, as well as workers carrying hot beverages in rooms with kids present.
• How to respond to medical situations and emergencies.
• How to respond to disciplinary situations.
• How to respond if a child becomes unaccounted for during the day.
• When and how rotations are expected to happen.
• How to share the Gospel and the procedures for responding when someone makes a profession of faith.
• Arrival and dismissal procedures for kids and parents.
• Worker responsibilities during Worship Rally, Family Celebration, and other large group activities.