Breakouts

Pre Conference

Danielle Bell
ACC
Partnering with Parents
Exploring ways to teach truth at home, how to build the bridge from church
to home, oﬀering Christ-centered training for families at church, and more.

Luke Harding
Gym 211-213
Creating a Leadership Pipeline
Your greatest impact on future ministry will be the leaders you help raise up. This breakout will discuss how to identify, develop, and utilize young leaders within your ministry area.

Shelly Melia
Kids 204
Artificial Intelligence: Shepherding Kids and Parents to Know the Potential and the Pitfalls
This session would talk about the impact of AI on childhood development, learning, spiritual formation, and relationships. The focus is awareness as well as some practical suggestions.

Sandra Peoples
Gym 214-216
Welcoming Every Child: Building an Inclusive Kid Min
Children’s ministries include kids with a wide range of needs including ADHD, autism, learning differences, sensory challenges, and more. This pre-con session will help equip leaders with practical strategies for adapting lessons, managing attention and behavior, and creating a classroom rhythm where every child can learn.

Session 1

Preschool Session 1

Debbie Barrett
Kids 212
Classroom Centers – Why are they important?
How to set up centers in our classroom and use them effectively.

Stephanie Chase
Kids Theater
Bible Alive! Teach – Play – Remember
“Bible Alive!” will equip you with creative, practical tools to bring the Bible to life through storytelling, games, songs, visual aids, and interactive activities for preschoolers. Learn how to make lessons fun, memorable, and impactful so kids not only understand Scripture but remember it long after Sunday ends.

Shelly Melia
Kids 204
Beyond Alpha: Here Come the Betas!
Move over Generation Alpha, the Beta Generation has arrived. This session will unpack new research about Generation Beta and discuss the importance of understanding the parents of Beta. If you enjoy thinking ahead and learning about new trends, this session is for you!

Donna Peavey
Kids 211
Best Practices in Faith Formation for Kids
In a rapidly changing world, nurturing the spiritual lives of children requires creativity, intentionality, and a deep understanding of their developmental needs. This session will explore proven strategies and innovative approaches to children’s faith formation. Participants will engage with current research, share practical tools, and discover age-appropriate methods that foster lasting spiritual growth. Whether you’re a seasoned minister or new to children’s ministry, this session will equip you with insights and resources to inspire faith in the next generation.

Kayla Wescoat
Kids 213
You’ve Only Got 30 Seconds
We know that parents are the primary spiritual influences in their children’s lives. How can we use the 30 seconds that we have with parents at drop-off and pick-up to help equip them to continue the lesson and have faith conversations throughout the week? Many of the curriculum resources we use already have resources for parents. However, how often do those end up on the floor of the minivan on the way home? Let’s teach parents how to use those resources well. We must communicate clearly and consistently with parents as we encourage them to take the lead in discipling their kids.

Children's Session 1

Caitlin Beauplan
Gym 103
Less is More – Building a Ministry Calendar
We live in a society that is fast paced. Our kids and families are pulled in a million different directions. Let’s talk about the ways that we can maximize our ministry calendars without overwhelming our families with countless events and programming.

Pam Copeland
Gym 105
Leading a Child to Christ
There are several different ways of explaining Christ to a child. How do you plant seeds without telling them the answers. Leading a child to Christ is not just about getting baptized, it is about a relationship with Him and a heart change.

Lynn Jordan
Kids 215
Revise, Rethink, Retool: Bible Skills Activities
Conferees will discover ways to create Bible skills games and activities using items they probably already have in leader packs, resource rooms or their recycle bins.

Jana Magruder
Gym 205
Wearing (and Sharing) All the Hats of Kids Ministry
Children’s ministry leaders often find themselves wearing every hat—volunteer coordinator and trainer, content developer and presenter, event planner, tech supporter, and more. This session explores the multi-faceted nature of the role and helps leaders identify their strengths and give practical strategies for managing their weaknesses.

Brandi Melvin
Gym 101
Help! I’m New Here!
This session is designed to give tips and tricks to those who are new in ministry. These tips will help any leader go back to their church on Sunday, more confident and equipped for their role.

Christy Nance
Kids 216
Games and Science
Let’s look at spot-on science activities and games that will drive home your lesson, provide application and reinforce Bible learning.

Carisa Wilsie
Gym 206
Seeing Beyond Their Behavior to Their Experiences
This presentation will explore what is happening with our children that results in challenging behaviors at church. By learning about generational poverty, adverse childhood experiences, and childhood trauma, we can better understand the children who we serve.

Preteen Session 1

Jeremy Carroll
Gym 203
Engaging the Unengageable Preteens
Preteens are often considered unengageble and distant. This is likely because of their life stage and development. Let’s take a deep dive into who preteens are and how best to reach them.

Ally Freeman
Gym 204
Preteen on Purpose
Preteens are in one of the most defining seasons of their spiritual and personal development—and they need ministry that’s designed just for them. In this workshop, we’ll dive into how to build intentional, purposeful preteen experiences that speak to where they are developmentally, emotionally, and spiritually.

Courtney Ingram
Gym 207
Preteens, Belonging & Jesus
A PB&J sandwich can be made a multitude of ways, but it is classic and nostalgic because of its’ consistent simplicity. Preteens aren’t looking for a club sandwich approach to church, they’re seeking basic needs and wants. We will slice through what Preteens say they simply expect out of their church these days.

Disability Ministry Session 1

Karan Brunette
Gym 210
Sensory Processing Disorders in Young Children
This session will provide information on brain processing and how sensation impacts the circuitry and neurochemistry for children with disabilities and adverse childhood experiences. Examples of sensory materials and activities will be discussed that can be used to deescalate the behavior of children when they are triggered and become dysregulated. Toys and materials will be available for participants to view and explore.

Sandra Peoples
Gym 214-216
Supporting Families Affected by Disability
Families of kids with disabilities need more than Sunday morning inclusion. They need community, care, and consistent support. In this session we will discuss how to partner with parents, communicate with compassion, and create systems that help families feel seen, heard, and valued in every season of life. Discover practical ways your ministry can become a trusted source of hope and encouragement for the whole family.

Family Session 1

Taylor Garmon
Gym 208
@ THE DINNER TABLE
Parents are the primary spiritual teachers of their families. Equip families to have practical and simple gospel-centered conversations during dinner.

Martha Harvey
Gym 209
Worship in the Home: Creating a Culture of Faith Beyond Sunday
Family worship doesn’t have to look like a sermon; it looks like real life. Yet for many families, worship in the home feels out of reach. In this session, we’ll explore why family worship matters, why it’s often missing, and how ministry leaders can champion it with practical, doable ideas that make faith formation part of everyday life.

Shelly Melia
Kids 204
Beyond Alpha: Here Come the Betas!
Move over Generation Alpha, the Beta Generation has arrived. This session will unpack new research about Generation Beta and discuss the importance of understanding the parents of Beta. if you enjoy thinking ahead and learning about new trends, this session is for you!

Leadership Session 1

Billy Hardesty
WC 1-2
The Hidden Life of a Healthy Leader
Behind every strong, lasting leader is a hidden life of habits, rhythms, and spiritual practices that no one sees but everyone feels. We’ll explore how the private world of a leader shapes the public fruit of their ministry. You’ll discover how emotional health, spiritual depth, personal boundaries, and sustainable rhythms protect you from burnout and empower you to lead with clarity, joy, and endurance. Whether you’re feeling stretched thin or simply ready to grow, this session will equip you with practical tools and biblical wisdom to strengthen the parts of your life that matter most. Come learn how to cultivate a hidden life that honors God and supports a lifetime of faithful leadership.

Luke Harding
WC 3-4
The Art of Delegation
A vast majority of ministry involves delegation! In this breakout, you will learn how to effectively delegate, receive delegation, and why this skill set is so crucial to ministry and influence.

Emily Smith
WC 5-6
Band-Aids, Boo-Boos, & Safety Aids!
Kids like to wiggle, giggle, and squirm, and with this comes boo-boos. Let’s explore safety aids inside and outside the classroom so they can wiggle, giggle, and squirm, in a kid-safe environment.

Session 2

Preschool Session 2

Debbie Barrett
Kids 212
Guiding Preschool Behavior in the Classroom
Learning to set boundaries and guide preschoolers as they explore, learn, and grow in the classroom.

Caitlin Beauplan
Gym 103
Building Foundations Through Baby Dedications
Baby Dedications are a great way to build a foundation and partnership with parents as they launch into parenthood. Discover the various components that you could utilize in a baby dedication from orientations, programming, resources and more to find a good fit for your ministry.

Ally Freeman
Gym 204
Tiny Disciples
Even the youngest hearts can begin to know and follow Jesus! This breakout focuses on how to teach toddlers about God in ways that are simple, memorable, and developmentally appropriate. You’ll discover practical strategies for storytelling, worship, and hands-on activities that help little ones connect with God’s Word. Whether you’re guiding their first prayers, introducing Bible stories, or creating a nurturing space for spiritual growth, this session will equip you to raise tiny disciples with big faith.

Donna Peavey
Kids 211
Building Spiritual Foundations through Social and Emotion Development in Preschoolers
Preschoolers, from birth through age five, experience rapid social and emotional growth that shapes how they relate to others, manage feelings, and understand themselves. These developmental milestones deeply influence their spiritual formation. In this session, ministry leaders will explore key stages of social and emotional development, learn practical strategies to nurture healthy relationships, and discover ways to integrate spiritual truths into everyday interactions.

Delanee Williams
WC 5-6
Thought Igniting Prayer For Preschoolers
Preschoolers can talk to God. In this session, we’ll discuss the importance of prayer, how to teach preschoolers to pray, and share practical ideas of using prayer in the classroom with preschoolers.

Children's Session 2

Jeremy Carroll
Gym 203
The Power of Belonging
Helping kids know they belong isn’t just about fun and friendships—it’s about opening their hearts to Jesus. In this breakout, we’ll explore how a strong sense of belonging builds trust and lays the foundation for faith. You’ll walk away with practical tools to make your ministry a place where kids feel at home and encounter the love of Christ.

Stephanie Chase
Kids Theater
Heart Connection: Sparking a Love for God & His House
Reignite your passion for reaching the hearts of kids. Kids today crave connection more than ever. Learn how to truly connect with kids and create relationships that make kids light up when they walk in the church doors and lean in when God’s word is shared.

Pam Copeland
Gym 105
Thriving and Not Just Surviving Children’s Ministry
Honest conversations on how to ride the waves of highs, lows and burnout in Ministry. Let’s talk about ways and strategies to find longevity in Ministry as a children’s leader and to be encouraged as you serve children and parents.

Lynn Jordan
Kids 215
Connecting How We Teach With How They Learn
Conferees will be introduced to eight kids with different learning styles and discover a variety of ways to reach, teach, and guide behaviors specifically appropriate for each child’s needs.

Jana Magruder
Gym 205
Serving Every Generation from the Kids Minister Seat
From Boomer and Gen X volunteers to Millennial and Gen Z parents, to Gen Alpha kids and Beta babies, all the generations are represented in children’s ministry. Learn more about the strategic opportunity for kingdom impact across every generation that can truly align the heart of the church around the mission of the gospel.

Christy Nance
Kids 216
Make Sunday School More Fun
Small changes can make a HUGE difference for you and the kids! Add some variety to Sunday morning activities and space with simple steps that add pizzazz to your classroom.

Preteen Session 2

Billy Hardesty
WC 1-2
When Karla Becomes Karl: Navigating Gender Confusion in Preteen Ministry
“When Karla Became Karl” is designed to help preteen ministry leaders navigate the growing challenge of gender confusion with biblical clarity and Christlike compassion. Using a real-world scenario of a preteen who begins identifying as another gender, we’ll explore how to respond with truth without losing tenderness, how to protect the discipleship environment while still loving the child in front of us, and how to communicate wisely with parents.

Courtney Ingram
Gym 207
Launch & Lead–Mission Minded Preteens
Preteens aren’t confident in who they are yet, but we can help empower them for what God has commanded them to go and do. Let’s propel Preteens to not just do missions projects, but to truly live out a missions lifestyle before they even enter the Student Ministry.

Kayla Wescoat
Kids 213
Leading Preteens to Lasting Faith
The preteen years are a pivotal window in a child’s faith journey. This is the age where kids are asking big questions, developing their identity, and shaping rhythms that will impact their walk with Jesus for years to come. In this breakout, we’ll explore why preteen ministry deserves our full attention and how leaders can guide kids to know Jesus personally, discover their unique gifts, grow in spiritual habits, and join God’s mission.

Disability Ministry Session 2

Karan Brunette
Gym 210
Engineering the Classroom with Visual Supports to Maximize Engagement of Children with Disabilities
This session will describe and provide examples of visual strategies used to maximize the participation of all young children in a learning environment. The strategies will include visual schedules, task sequences, self-regulation cues, escape communication, emotion cards, etc.

Sandra Peoples
Gym 214-216
Creating an Inclusive Children’s Ministry: Models and Methods
Build a children’s ministry where every kid can belong and thrive! In this session, you will discover practical models for inclusion, creative adaptations for teaching, and effective behavior support techniques that help every child succeed. Walk away with fresh ideas and confidence to create a Christ-centered ministry that welcomes all kids and families.

Carisa Wilsie
Gym 206
How to Navigate and Respond to the Big Behavioral Health Challenges of Adolescence
Adolescence is a challenging time in development. This presentation will focus on the science behind brain development and the key to adolescent development of identity formation. Discussion will focus on how to support youths during this time. Participants will also learn about how to approach conversations with teens about mental health.

Family Session 2

Taylor Garmon
Gym 208
FAMILY MINISTRY = RELATIONSHIPS
Transform your family ministry from a weekly to-do-list to building a thriving community.

Martha Harvey
Gym 209
Beyond Drop off and Pickup: Reaching Parents in Today’s BUSY World
Family ministry isn’t just about sending resources home, it’s about relationships. Learn how to create thoughtful, effective touchpoints that move your ministry from “drop-off and go” to “discipling together.” You’ll leave with practical strategies, ready-to-use ideas, and digital rhythms that make partnering with parents doable, even in the busiest weeks.

Carisa Wilsie
Gym 206
How to Navigate and Respond to the Big Behavioral Health Challenges of Adolescence
Adolescence is a challenging time in development. This presentation will focus on the science behind the brain development and the key to adolescent development of identity formation. Discussion will focus on how to support youths during this time. Participants will also learn about how to approach conversations with teens about mental health.

Leadership Session 2

Danielle Bell
ACC
Leading When You’re Not in Charge
You don’t have to sit in the senior pastor’s chair to make a lasting impact for God’s Kingdom. In this breakout, we’ll explore what it means to lead from the middle and serve faithfully, influencing others and advancing your church’s mission from a supporting role. We will explore together how God utilizes middle leaders to unify teams, lead up, down, and across, communicate mission, and expand ministry for His glory.

Luke Harding
WC 3-4
Hiring, Firing, and Staff Evaluations
This breakout will equip you in leading paid staff positions. Whether you are a lead pastor, kids minister, weekday preschool director, or a Christian business person. Leading paid employees is not easy. This breakout will give you practical skills for leading with clarity, kindness, and Christlikeness, while also maintaining high standards for employment, ministry, and team culture.

Brandi Melvin
Gym 101
Surviving & Thriving When Church Hurt Hits
Being hurt in ministry can come out of nowhere and leave you feeling done with ministry. This session helps to encourage, uplift and help those get back to fulfilling the calling God has placed on the lives of believers.

Chuck Peters
Gym 211-213
10 Attributes of an Unshakable Ministry
The best ministries remain unshaken when unexpected trials arrive (COVID-19 anyone?). We need to be intentional to build our ministries on unshakable ideas that will help them remain strong no matter what circumstances come. This session covers 10 areas to evaluate in your shakability factor and strengthen your ministry.

7:30 Saturday: Family Ministry Breakfast

Dr. Nurse Mama (Jessica Peck)
Student Building
Emotional Emergencies: Mental Health First Aid in Children’s Ministry
Children today are facing increasing mental health challenges, and ministry leaders are often the first to notice when something isn’t right. In this practical, faith-informed session, you’ll learn how to recognize signs of emotional distress, respond with confidence and compassion, and offer hope rooted in both clinical connections and biblical truth. Equip yourself to be a safe, supportive presence for kids and families struggling with anxiety, trauma, depression, and other mental health needs.

12:15 Saturday: Mega Breakout Sessions

Stephanie Chase
Kids Theater
Give Kids Clarity in the Chaos
In a world buzzing with confusion, lies, and half-truths, kids are facing hard topics about identity, marriage, & purity – and now is the time to equip them with solid answers! In this power packed session, you’ll learn how to help kids recognize the truth, overcome the world’s mixed messages, and boldly share what they believe and why.

Dr. Nurse Mama (Jessica Peck)
Worship Center
Risky Business: Managing Exposure and Preventing Harm
This session takes a rapid-fire look at today’s emerging risks and digital exposures, where children are engaging in risk-taking behaviors at younger ages. This session equips ministry leaders to support parents in guiding their children with developmentally appropriate strategies, positioning them as trusted experts. Through the lens of relationship-based “lighthouse parenting,” leaders will learn how to set safe boundaries, reduce harm, and foster trust while keeping connection at the heart of protection.

Shelly Melia, Donna Peavy, Karen Kennemur
ACC
Children and Salvation Panel
Join the panel of childhood education professors as they unpack insights from their newly released book on children and salvation. They will explore how kids understand the gospel, what helps and hinders their response to Jesus, and how churches and parents can faithfully nurture genuine faith without pressure or confusion.

Chuck Peters
Gym 214-216
Ministry at the Speed of Culture
The culture is changing fast around us, and it has a strong pull on our kids. Sadly, the velocity of the culture is always away from God. In this compelling session we will discuss the importance of maintaining our focus as we minister to today’s kids in high-speed world..