Roles
| Role | Job |
|---|---|
| VBS director | owns the plan, budget and schedule; the go-to person all week |
| Crew leader (adult) | stays with one group of kids all morning, moves them between stations |
| Crew helper (teen) | assists the crew leader |
| Bible story leader | teaches the day's story at the story station |
| Craft leader | runs the craft station, preps supplies |
| Rec / games leader | runs games, connects each game to the story |
| Snack team | prepares and serves snacks, manages the allergy list |
| Music / worship leader | leads songs and motions at opening and closing |
| Registration & check-out | name tags, check-in, authorized pick-up |
| Safety / first aid | first-aid kit, incident forms, hall monitor |
| Decor & tech | sets, lights, sound, slides |
Ratios
- Preschool: 1 adult per 4–5 kids
- Elementary: 1 adult per 6–8 kids
- Never one adult alone with a child; every room has two adults.
Recruiting tips
- Ask personally, with a specific role and time ("Would you lead crafts 9–12 the week of June 16?").
- Offer short shifts for people who can't do the whole week.
- Invite teens and seniors. Both bring something special.
One-hour training agenda
- Vision & the gospel message we'll share (10 min)
- Daily schedule and rotations (10 min)
- Safety: check-in/out, two-adult rule, bathrooms, allergies, emergencies (20 min)
- Station walk-through (15 min)
- Pray together (5 min)
Frequently asked questions
How many volunteers do I need for VBS?
For 50 kids, plan roughly 7–9 crew leaders, 5 station leaders, 2–3 registration and check-in volunteers, 2 snack helpers, a music leader and a director, about 20 adults plus teen helpers.
Can teenagers volunteer at VBS?
Yes. Teens make great crew helpers, game leaders and actors, but an adult should be the responsible leader for every group.
What training do VBS volunteers need?
A one-hour session covering the schedule, child-safety policy (check-in/out, two-adult rule, bathroom plan), allergy procedures, and how to talk with kids about Jesus.