Timeline
| When | To do |
|---|---|
| 6 months out | Pick dates, theme and director. Reserve rooms. Set a budget. |
| 4 months | Choose five Bible stories and memory verses. List stations. Start recruiting. |
| 3 months | Assign station leaders. Plan crafts, games and snacks for each day. |
| 2 months | Open registration. Promote it in church, at school pick-up and online. Gather decor supplies. |
| 1 month | Print everything. Hold volunteer training (safety, schedule, gospel conversations). |
| 1 week | Decorate. Prep craft kits per day. Print name tags and the schedule. |
| After | Thank-you notes, follow up with new families, write down what to change next year. |
A daily schedule that works (9:00–11:45)
- 9:00 Registration & crew check-in (coloring page or word search at the tables)
- 9:15 Opening: song, skit, today's big idea
- 9:35 Rotation 1, Bible story
- 10:00 Rotation 2, crafts
- 10:25 Rotation 3, games
- 10:50 Rotation 4, snack
- 11:10 Closing: music, memory verse, gospel, prayer
- 11:40 Pick-up (check kids out to their authorized adults)
Plan each day on one page
For each day write down: Bible story · memory verse · big idea (one sentence) · craft · game · snack · take-home sheet. If every volunteer can see that one page, VBS runs smoothly.
Free printables for each day
Every Bible story on VBS HQ has a word search (with answer key) and is getting a coloring page, craft and lesson. Pick your five stories and print a set for each day.
Keep it safe
- Use a check-in/check-out system, name tags, and an allergy list at the snack station.
- Two adults in every room. Background checks per your church policy.
- A first-aid kit and a clear plan for bathroom trips.
Share the gospel simply
On one day (often day 4 or 5), explain the gospel clearly: God loves you · everyone has sinned · Jesus died for our sins, was buried and rose again (1 Corinthians 15:3–4) · we obey the gospel by repenting, being baptized in Jesus' name for the remission of sins, and receiving the gift of the Holy Ghost (Acts 2:38). Pray with the kids, have trained adults available to talk, and let parents and your pastor know who wants to be baptized or filled with the Holy Ghost. Speak the truth in love and never pressure a child.
Frequently asked questions
How much does a DIY VBS cost?
A small DIY VBS for 30 kids can run on $150–$400, mostly snacks and craft supplies. Printables from VBS HQ are free, and decorations can come from cardboard, paper and borrowed items.
How many volunteers do we need for VBS?
Plan one adult crew leader per 6–8 kids (one per 4–5 preschoolers), plus a station leader for each rotation (story, crafts, games, snack, music) and a registration and safety team.
How many days should VBS be?
Five days is traditional, but three-day and one-day VBS events work well for small churches. Pick the length your team can do with joy.
Do we need background checks for VBS volunteers?
Yes. Follow your church's child-protection policy. Most churches require background checks and training for any adult working with children, and never leave one adult alone with a child.