2011-2012 awana handbook (parents) - clover...

1 588-6855 or www.ridgedale.org Revision 2011.08.02

AWANA Ridgedale Baptist Church

Our Goal & Prayer: Our goal is to reach boys and girls with the gospel of Christ and train them to serve him. Our prayer is for all children and youth throughout the world will come to know, love, and serve the Lord Jesus Christ.

2011-2012


AWANA contents

2011-2012

3

4 - 6

7 - 8

9 - 12

13 - 17

18 - 19

Parent Commitment

Welcome & Expectations Parents & leaders

Club Night

Guidelines, Calendar Leadership Directory

& Store

Puggles, Sparks, Truth and Training

Club Information

Safety & Security Parent Commitment Form


Dear Parents and Guardians of Awana Clubbers, We are thrilled to have your child participate with us in the Awana ministry! Awana is a rewarding and enriching experience in Christian education and we are sure you will receive an exciting report from your child on the activities. The purpose of the Awana ministry is to reach boys and girls with the gospel of Christ and train them to serve Him. The word Awana is an acronym based on 2nd Timothy 2:15: Approved Workman Are Not Ashamed. We encourage you to support your child’s continued participation. Each weekly club meeting is composed of three main elements – Game Time, Handbook Time, and Council Time. Your child will enjoy the active Awana Games, uniquely created around the Awana circle. During Handbook Time, leaders work with small groups of clubbers listening to Bible verses the boys and girls have learned as well as assisting them with their handbooks. Your child will begin to gain a valuable understanding of spiritual truths in this way. Awards are earned for passing sections in their handbook and to motivate further achievement. During Council Time your child will be exposed to messages from God’s Word delivered by exemplary speakers. You, also, have a critical part to play in this training of your child. In order for your child to get the most out of the Awana program, your partnership with us in helping your child to learn and achieve is essential. Please read the this manual which has been prepared to help clarify our expectations and to provide basic information about our program. If you have further questions, please talk to our Commander John Lowery or one of your child’s leaders. After you have read this manual we ask that you sign the back page and return to the club secretary. Thank you and welcome. Sincerely, John Lowery Awana Commander Ridgedale Baptist Church

Parents AWANA

2011-2012 Commitment

Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not turn from it.

-Proverbs 22:6


Welcome to AWANA According to the most recent research, a child’s moral development begins as early as 2 years old. That moral compass is well established by age 9, and what they believe is all but set in stone by age 13.

AWANA 2008-2009

Creating a healthy partnership By choosing to allow your child to participate in Ridgedale Baptist Church's AWANA program, you are choosing one of the best programs to systematically prepare your child for spiritual success. But no church program can accomplish such grand aspirations by itself. We can only be successful when we partner with you, the parents. During the course of the average year, the church, the family, and the world have the following opportunities to influence the average child:

52 hours - church 1,460 hours - family 7,248 hours - world

What kind of eternal impact are you making on your children? Are you trusting the church to independently develop in your child a moral framework and a purpose for living? Are you counting on a public, or even private, education system to do it for you? At this point you are probably saying to yourself, "Of course I'm not leaving my child's spiritual health up to somebody else." But do your actions honestly match your well -meaning thoughts? When was the last time you turned

off the television to read your child a Bible story? When was the last time you did more at Sunday lunch than ask your child, "So what did you learn today?" When was the last time you actually took the time to either teach your child something new from the Bible or show him how to apply a biblical principle to his life? AWANA gives you the opportunity each week to 1) help your children memorize life changing scripture; 2)

plant that scripture firmly in their hearts through review and repetition so that it is more than just in short term memory, recited for a prize; and 3) model for them through your own actions what a difference that scripture can make in their own lives. Will you accept the invitation to be a parent partner? Or will you continue to simply have well meaning thoughts?


Parent Expectations “Repeat them again and again to your children. Talk about them when you are at home and when you are away on a journey, when you are lying down and when you are getting up again.” Deuteronomy 6:7

Busy Schedules Families' schedules are busier than ever. School, church, sports, homework, music lessons. Even vacations seem like a lot of work these days. For many families, the truth is that they just don't seem to have time to sit down and study God's word together. Even the church seems to continually pull families in different directions. Rest assured that Ridgedale is cur-rently working to end this cycle. We want to return to a model that more closely resembles God's original intention that families be the incubators of a child's faith. To that end, I personally promise you the parents that AWANA will not schedule a single event that is "for kids only." Parents are always wel-come and encouraged to partici-pate. In return we expect parents to place a high priority on the family church partnership and do their part. Work with your children dur-ing the week to prepare at least 2-3 sections in their AWANA hand-books. This will ensure that they will complete their handbooks on time and will receive their special rewards. God has clearly prescribed a par-ticular pattern for family life. There is a natural rhythm to life that families often disregard to

their own detriment. God has given parents four time periods that naturally occur during the course of the day which they can use to create teachable mo-ments with their kids: 1) getting up 2) travelling on the road 3) sitting at home 4) going to bed Parents , make the de-cision today that you will utilize each of the-se God-given time pe-riods to make a differ-ence in the spiritual health of your child. Greet your child each morning with a simple phrase like "God has given us this day to live for Him." Slip a short note in their lunch box telling them how much you love them. You might even write their memory verse for the week on the note. As you drive your kids to and from school, practice, and lessons, you can choose to use that time to listen to positive Christian radio,

discuss the events of the day, or practice the recitation of memory verses. Set aside at least one evening each week where the whole family has dinner together and discusses life issues. Even 3 year olds can learn the life changing quality of respect and honor at the dinner ta-ble. Finally, don't send your children to bed, take them. Even if they are too old to tuck in, they are never too old to hear your wise instruc-tion about the days events. You might even consider using this time to read or review a Bi-ble story. Leave your sons ready to dream about defeating the dragon and bringing salvation for the bride. Kiss your daughters and e n c o u r a g e t h e i r dreams of a handsome prince riding a great white horse, ready to bring her to his beautiful mansion he prepared just for her.


AWANA 2011-2012

Leader Expectations “And you yourself must be an example to them by doing good deeds of every kind. Let everything you do reflect the integrity and seriousness of your teaching.” -Titus 2:7

Standards of Excellence AWANA has few requirements of leaders; however, the expectations set by the program are expected to be upheld with consistency and excellence. The following characteristics are those for which we expect our leadership to labor. Requirements: 1) A leader must have a personal relationship with

Jesus Christ. 2) A leader must have a desire to work with and a

compassion for children. 3) A leader must agree with the AWANA Doctrinal

Statement as found in the Training Manual. 4) A leader must consistently attend at least one hour

of church other than AWANA each week. We EXPECT our Leaders to... be on time. be examples. follow the rules. display a proper attitude before the clubbers

and other leaders. pray for our Club on a regular basis. realize AWANA is not just another program, but it

is a ministry of the church and a place of service to God.

participate in ongoing training opportunities as they are offered.

share the gospel with children on a regular basis. be involved in regular scripture memory, utilizing

curriculum like The Bible Based Leader.

Relationship

Honor

Consistency

Accountability


Club Night Since 1950, AWANA has grown from a one-church program into a ministry that includes more than 6,500 churches in the United States and another 1,300 in more than 80 countries worldwide. Local churches reach hundreds of thousands of young people every week by using the AWANA program. The goal of AWANA is to reach boys and girls with the gospel of Christ and to train them to serve Him.

High Expectations We are glad that you have decided that Ridgedale Baptist Church is a place where your children can grow in the Lord. We are sure that our AWANA club will be a place of learning and excitement that will have a positive influence on your children. The AWANA program is divided into several age groups that range from two years old through fifth grade. A typical night is divided into five parts :

Opening Ceremony Handbook Time

Game Time Council Time

Closing Ceremony A W A N A o f f e r s s e v e r a l opportunities for your child to grow spiritually through Scripture memorization and a basic unders tanding of b ib l ical principals and doctrines. AWANA also provides an opportunity for children to learn to compete as a team and not just as individuals. They will learn to win and lose with a proper attitude of fair play and sportsmanship. We ask for your support in encouraging your child to

c o m p l e t e t h e i r handbook materials prior to each club week. This way we will have the time to show them how to apply what they learn to their everyday lives. We wou ld a l so a p p r e c i a t e y o u r p u n c t u a l i t y i n dropping off and picking up your children. Club starts promptly at 6:30pm, so please have your children at club no later than 6:30pm in order for them to c h e c k - i n b e f o r e Opening Ceremony.

Club officially ends at 8:00 pm. Closing Ceremony begins at 7:55pm. Again, we thank you for the opportunity to work with and minister to your child.


Children’s Illness (church wide children’s policy) Children will be removed from the classroom and asked to be picked-up if they show the fol-

lowing symptoms: Temperature of 100 Vomiting Diarrhea Unexplained skin rash Green mucus discharge from the nose Nits in hair Red eyes with a mucus discharge

If your child displays (or has in the past 24 hours) a temperature of 100 degrees or over, cur-rently has an earache, sore throat, upset stomach, diarrhea, unexplained rash, persistent cough, yellow or green drainage(2nd instance of the day) crusty, matted or oozing eyes or a communicable disease such as chicken pox, staph infection, strep or impetigo, please Do Not Bring Them To AWANAs.

Children must be fever free for 24 hours, without medication, before they can return to Awanas.

If your child develops sickness with our without a fever, while here, they will be isolated from other children in the office until you (or someone on your emergency list) can pick them up. After receiving the call to pick-up your child, come as quickly as possible. Please leave a number where you can be reached during the day with child’s leader if different from your regular emergency numbers.

Medications During Awana programming, leaders and/or staff of Ridgedale Baptist Church will not adminis-ter any medication to children.

Are You Ready What to Wear

Your child should wear their designated uniform each club night. Wearing your club uniform, your child receives points each night.

For your child’s safety tennis shoes are required to be worn for Game Time.

Crocks, flip-flops, sandals, are shoes that are NOT appropriate as injury during games can occur. Children will not be able to play without proper footwear.

What to Bring Good Attitude Bible Handbook Pencil or pen Proper shoes


Clubber Guidelines

“Do what is right and good in the LORD’s sight, so all will go well with you…”

- Deuteronomy 6:18a

Discipline In the event discipline is required, we have a procedure which will be used by all clubs. If a child is disrespectful or is disruptive to the club, the following procedure will occur: 1) A “1” count will be given for the

first offense. 2) A “2” count will be given for the

second offense, and the child will be counseled by a leader outside the club room and then returned to club.

3) A “3” count is given and the child is taken by the leader to their parent or guardian or the parent or guardian is called.

4) If the clubber has to be taken to the parent or called for a second time, a meeting must occur with the administrative and family pastor before the child will be allowed to come back to club, and one or both parents may be required to attend club with the child.

It is our prayer that no situation will have to be resolved in this manner, but in fairness to all clubbers and leaders, the above will be enforced as necessary.

Roadmap to Success 1) Sections must be passed in order. 2) Silver & Gold level sections (T&T) may be done

later. 3) If you do not bring your handbook to the weekly

club meetings, sections may not be passed or checked off by your club leader.

4) To complete a handbook in one year, a child should have two to three sections ready to be completed when they arrive each week.

5) Clubbers are not allowed to work ahead of the book meant for their age group. If children finish a book before the year is over, they may only go to another book if one is available for their age.

6) Clubbers must pass an entire section during one session. They may not quote one verse and then look at the book before saying another verse in the same section.

7) Leaders may only give two helps per section. A help is defined as three words or less or any other hint.

8) Generally, if a leader has to teach a section to a clubber on club night, that section is not ready to be passed.

9) Clubbers are encouraged to pass sections flawlessly.

10) Awards are given the week a child earns them. 11) Awards will not be given if the clubber is not

wearing a uniform. 12) Athletic shoes are required for Game Time.


AWANA Calendar & Dues

Dues Twenty five cents $.25 is due each night of club. If parents feel they cannot bear this financial burden, please see our Awana Commander or Administrative and Family Pastor. No child will be turned away! There are no club fees for 2011-2012. (New for 2011)

2011-2012

Aug. 17 First Night of Awana Jan. 4 NO Awana Aug. 24 Jan. 11 Crazy Sock Night Aug. 31 Crazy Hair Night Jan. 18 Sept. 7 Jan. 25 Measles Night* Sept. 14 Measles Night* Feb. 1 Sept. 21 Feb. 8 Sept. 28 Sports Night Feb. 15 Hearts Night*

Oct. 5 Feb. 22 Oct. 12 Bubble Gum Night* Feb. 29 Flash Light Night Oct. 19 March 7 Oct. 26 Trunk-or-Treat March 14 Nov. 2 March 21 Spring Break (NO Awana) Nov. 9 Can Do Night (bring food needy) March 28 Nov. 16 April 4 Easter Egg Hunt Nov. 23 Thanksgiving Week (NO Awana) April 11 Nov. 30 April 18 Inside Out Night Dec. 7 Bible Hero Night April 25

Dec. 14 May 2 Ark Night Dec. 21 Decorate a Leader Night* May 9 Dec. 28 NO Awana May 16 Award Ceremonies 6:30 – 8:00

* Events will happen during club. No preparation needed prior to club.

No Awana On These Nights

October 26 November 23 December 28

January 4 March 21

April 4


AWANA Directory

2011-2012

Staff

Ridgedale Baptist Church

Pastor:

Mark McGill

Admin. Family Pastor: Chris Cate

Youth Minister:

Doug Grimm

5632 Nickle Road Knoxville, TN 37921

865.588.6855 www.ridgedale.org

Pastor Mark McGill [email protected] Admin. Family Pastor Chris Cate 865.254.5789 [email protected] Awana Commander John Lowery 865.604.7865 [email protected] Lead Secretary Judy Rogers 865.584.8964 [email protected] Puggles Director Vickie Owens 865.684.7626 [email protected] Cubbies Director Julie Beaird 865.556.7425 [email protected] Sparks Director Dawn Silvey 865.405.4524 [email protected] T&T Director Troy Kinnaird 865.405.3027 [email protected] Games Director Dustin Terry 865.591.2950 [email protected]

www.ridgedale.org


AWANA AWANA

2008-2009

Store This is the day the LORD has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.

-Psalm 118:24

Clubbers can earn 27 points each evening for bringing their Bible, wearing their uniform, bringing their club book, paying their dues, and a t t e n d i n g S u n d a y School. Clubbers can then earn up to as many points as they wish by completing sections during handbook time. Ten points per section. These points can be used in the Awana store to purchase various items. The Awana store will be open during club each evening. Clubbers will need to earn 150 points for their first visit to the store. Clubbers are welcome and encouraged to save their points. Clubbers may turn in ideas for things to be bought for the store.

Points to be Earned Each Night Each club member can earn points each evening they are in attendance: Attendance 5 points Bible 5 points Uniform 5 points Club Book 5 points Dues 5 points Sunday School 2 points Completed Sect. 10 points Bring a friend 25 points

Points Are Awarded Each Night

Attendance

Bible Uniform

Club Book Dues

Sunday School


The teaching for the Awana Puggles program is built around four prospects: God made everything God saw that it was good God is love Give thanks.

The four precepts are spread across 32 teaching cards for lesson times. These large, colorful cards, illustrate a simple lesson for toddlers to understand. Each week features a theme around one of the precepts and related core verses: Genesis 1:1, John 1:3, Isaiah 42:5, Genesis 1:10, 1 John 4:15 and Psalm 105:1. Take-home cards help parents reinforce lesson concepts in simple ways throughout the week. They also encourage the whole family to learn about God together.

What’s A Puggle? A.) A baby platypus B.) A very, very funny word C.) Program for pre-Cubbies

The Answer: All of the Above!

Puggles is the Awana program for children who miss the Cubbies cutoff date. Leaders and parents work together to reach foundational truths about God! Your children will be excited to attend church and enter Awana like their older siblings and friends.


Cubbies journey through their handbooks together, one section per week. The Cubbies curriculum features two handbooks written in a fun, storybook style that appeals to preschoolers. The handbooks contain 24 Bear Hug sections along with six optional special-day sections. Each section combines basic Scripture memory with parent-child activities to help a child grasp a simple biblical truth. Two extra-credit handbooks containing additional memory verses and character-building activities are also available. Before starting a handbook, newcomers to Cubbies are taken through an introductory brochure that gives parents and children a brief overview of the program and presents God’s plan of salvation at a preschooler’s level. In addition, all memory verses are presented at a level appropriate for 3- and 4-year-olds. For example, John 3:16 reads: "For God so loved the world, that He gave His only Son …"

Jumper Celebration Handbook Curriculum Outline

Lord, You are very great 1. God, the Creator, loves me Story time: David, the shepherd Lesson aim: God created the heavens and the earth Memory verse: 1 John 4:8 2. God, the Creator, is everlasting Story time: Creation Lesson aim: God created the light Memory verse: Genesis 1:1 3. God, the Creator, knows everything Story time: Creation Lesson aim: God created the sky, the land, seas and plants Memory verses: Ecclesiastes 3:11; Psalm 96:4 4. God, the Creator, is the source of all light Story time: Creation Lesson aim: God created the sun, moon and stars Memory verses: Psalm 136:3,7-9

5. God, the Creator, has all power Story time: Creation Lesson aim: God created birds, fish and animals Memory verse: John 1:3 6. God, the Creator, created me Story time: Creation Lesson aim: God created people to love Him Memory verse: Psalm 139:14 Lord, Your Words are very great 7. The Bible is God’s special book Story time: The Bible is God’s special book Lesson aim: The Bible is God’s Word (letter) to me Memory verse: 2 Timothy 3:16


Jumper Outline Continued . . .

8. The Bible teaches me that God’s promises are true Story time: Noah builds an ark Lesson aim: God always keeps His promises Memory verse: Psalm 119:160 9. The Bible teaches me to trust God Story time: Moses leads God’s people Lesson aim: I can trust God Memory verse: Proverbs 3:5 10. The Bible teaches me that I should learn about God Story time: Josiah’s men find God’s Word Lesson aim: I can learn about God at church Memory verse: Psalm 33:4 11. The Bible teaches me to pray Story time: Daniel and the lions’ den Lesson aim: I can talk to God Memory verse: Psalm 55:17 12. The Bible teaches me about God’s Son Story time: The announcements to Mary and Joseph Lesson aim: God promised to send a Savior Memory verse: 1 John 4:10 Lord, Your works are very great 13. Lord Jesus, You deserve our honor Story time: The wise men honor Jesus Lesson aim: I can honor the Lord Jesus every day Memory verse: Matthew 2:10 14. Lord Jesus, You tell me to love others Story time: Children come to see Jesus Lesson aim: The Lord Jesus loves me Memory verse: Mark 10:14 15. Lord Jesus, thank You for being my friend Story time: Matthew invites friends to hear Jesus Lesson aim: I can love others Memory verse: 1 John 4:11 16. Lord Jesus, thank You for Your care Story time: Parable of the lost sheep Lesson aim: Jesus takes care of me each day Memory verse: 1 Timothy 1:15

17. Lord Jesus, thank You for Your great and marvelous works Story time: Jesus calms the storm Lesson aim: The Lord Jesus does might works - Memory verse: Matthew 8:27 18. Lord Jesus, thank You for dying for me Story time: The good news of the Lord Jesus Christ Lesson aim: The Lord Jesus died to take the punishment for my sin Memory verses: Romans 3:23; Romans 5:8;1 Corinthians 15:3 Lord, Your love is very great 19. Lord Jesus, You teach me that You are always with me Story time: Paul and Silas in prison Lesson aim: The Lord Jesus is with me all the time Memory verse: Matthew 28:20 20. Lord Jesus, You teach me to share Story time: Jesus feeds the 5,000 Lesson aim: The Lord Jesus teaches me to be kind - Memory verse: John 15:12 21. Lord Jesus, You teach me to love others Story time: The good Samaritan Lesson aim: The Lord Jesus teaches me to help others Memory verse: Galatians 5:14 22. Lord Jesus, You teach me to obey Story time: David and Goliath Lesson aim: The Lord Jesus teaches me to obey my parents Memory verse: Ephesians 6:1 23. Lord Jesus, You are making a home for me in heaven Story time: The Good Shepherd Lesson aim: Jesus is in heaven right now, preparing a place for me Memory verse: Psalm 23:1 24. Lord Jesus, You teach me to serve You Story time: Paul sends Timothy to Thessalonica Lesson aim: The Lord Jesus teaches me to serve Him Memory verse: Psalm 100:2


Sparks Curriculum Basics

Sparks curriculum is comprised of three handbooks: Hang Glider, Wing Runner, and SkyStormer Each handbook communicates spiritual truths through memory verse drills, crafts, activities and review of key doctrine, Bible facts and verses. All three handbooks follow a nature motif, starting with Hang Glider and ending with SkyStormer. Over the three years, Sparkies will survey the main people and events of the Bible. Not only will they learn specifics, but they will also see how the Bible fits together as God’s plan to save the World through Christ. Before working in a handbook, newcomers to Sparks complete an entrance booklet that introduces them to the program and begins teaching them basic Bible truths.

AWANA 2011-2012

The Awana club for children in kindergarten through second grade builds on the material taught in our preschool club. The aim of the curriculum is to take youngsters a step deeper into God’s Word while giving unsaved boys and girls regular opportunities to hear the gospel and come to faith in Jesus Christ. After being immersed in solid foundational teaching at the preschool level, boys and girls frequently come to an understanding of their need to trust Christ as their personal Savior while in Sparks. Immersing kids in God’s Word The Sparks program is firmly grounded in Scripture. The three handbooks feature: * Basic truths about God, Jesus Christ, salvation and the Bible * An increased emphasis on Scripture memory over our

preschool materials. In three years, a child will learn and review 68 verses, many of which cover salvation and key Christian doctrine

* Clear and consistent presentation of the gospel Message Fun learning = results Sparks club meetings combine learning with fun to create an atmosphere of irresistible excitement for churched and unchurched kids alike. Club meetings are divided into three segments: * Bible teaching, worship, award presentations and the

gospel message * Small group interaction and completion of Bible based

lessons * Age-appropriate games on the Awana game circle Along the way, Sparky, the friendly firefly, encourages boys and girls to learn verses and complete assignments throughout the three handbooks.


AWANA 2011-2012

Truth & Training: A Study in Apologetics

The name Truth & Training reflects the passion of Awana to teach third- through fifth-grade boys and girls the truth of God’s Word and to train them to follow Christ in their daily lives. Our goal is that many of today’s young people will become tomorrow’s church leaders. T&T is the program that trains the leaders of tomorrow — today. Exciting features to get kids excited about God’s Word T&T is equipped with a variety of dynamic tools to accomplish this mission:

Four handbooks of increasing difficulty which teach children that life’s ultimate adventure is a personal relationship with Jesus Christ

A cast of fun characters that boys and girls learn from and follow on interesting journeys

in the handbooks Weekly meetings that expose children to the gospel message, Scripture memory, Bible

study, awards, team-oriented games and gut-busting fun A Bible-centered curriculum that helps kids build a firm foundation for their faith, hide

God’s Word in their heart and apply the truths of Scripture to their daily lives Interactive CDs that use exciting high-tech games

to teach and reinforce key biblical truths

Evangelism and discipleship go hand in hand in our third- through fifth-grade program. By the time a child has completed T&T, he will have:

Learned and reviewed approximately 310 verses Studied dozens of passages from the Old and New

Testament Regularly heard and read the gospel message Discovered the Bible’s response to questions like

“How does God want me to live my life?” and memorized verses to back up these answers

T&T Curriculum Basics

Each of the four handbooks in our Truth & Training clubs investigates four questions. Eight answers from the Bible are provided for each question. Children will learn all eight answers to each of the questions and verses to back up these answers. The handbooks also include Bible studies and activities that allow children to delve into the subject matter. Besides this curriculum, children can complete more challenging extra-credit sections throughout each handbook to earn special awards. Before beginning work in a handbook, newcomers to T&T must complete a short booklet that explains God’s plan of salvation.


Dropping Off and Checking In Registration begins each Wednesday at 6:15 pm. To maintain a safe environment for all children participating in Awana, we require our parents to walk clubbers to the check in area each evening. Parent will sign their child in and then take their child to the appropriate room or to the worship center. No child should ever run free throughout the building.

Picking Up No child will be released to anyone other than an approved parent/guardian unless club directors are given a permission slip from the child’s parent authorizing them to do so. All of these provisions are in place to protect your child and assure the very best experience during our club night. When picking up, parents are asked to sit with their child or sit in the seating area during the closing ceremonies.

Background Checks The adult leaders who volunteer on our Awana Ministry team have a completed background check on file. In the event that a background check is in progress for a new leader, this person will be supervised and accompanied by a person who has a completed background check.

Safety AWANA

2011-2012 Commitment

But if anyone causes one of these little ones who believe in me to sin, it would be better for him to have a large millstone hung around his neck and to be drowned in the depths of the area.

-Matthew 18:6


AWANA Parent Commitment

2011-2012

I am the parent of: ______________________________________________________________ I will

have my child attend Awana regularly, so he/she will get the most out of it.

encourage my child to achieve in handbook and other club activities. make every effort to have my child brought to Awana on time and

picked up promptly. support the Awana leadership in club guidelines and standards of

conduct. _____________________________ __________________ Parent/Guardian Signature Date


AWANA Meeting Times

The Awana ministry of Ridgedale Baptist Church is held on Wednesday night from 6:30 – 8:00 pm. Check-in time begins at 5:45. We will begin with the opening flag ceremony promptly at 6:30 pm.

Awana Schedule

5:45 – 6:15 Wednesday Night Family Dinner (an additional fees may apply) 6:30 – 6:45 Opening Ceremony 6:45 - ?? Handbook Time Game Time Council Time

Please see your child’s Director for a specific time schedule.

Awana Club Age Groups

Usually a two year program Infant - Age 2

Two year preschool program Ages 3 and 4 yea4rs old Must have their 3rd birthday on or before September 30 to participate in Cubbies

Three year program Kindergarten, 1st Grade and 2nd Grade

Four year program Grades 3rd, 4th, and 5th

Children entering into the 6th grade will attend our youth program which meets at the same time as the Awana ministry.


What to Wear Your child should wear their designated uniform. (see below) For your child’s safety shoes must be closed-in for running and playing.

Crocks, flip-flops, sandals, are shoes that are not recommended as injury during games can occur. Children play at their own risk when not wearing appropriate shoes.

Puggles should wear: light blue Puggles shirt tennis shoes

Cubbies should wear: Blue Vest with patches tennis shoes

Sparkies should wear: Red Vest with patches tennis shoes

T&T should wear: Green shirt tennis shoes

Do you need help with sewing patches on your child’s vest? Please see the Awana commander as we have ladies in the church who do not mind to help sew.


What to Bring with You

Puggles should remember to bring: Bible

Cubbies should remember to bring: Book Tote Bag Bible

Sparks should remember to bring: Book Tote Bag Bible

T&T should remember to bring: Book Tote Bag Bible

Example of Materials Your Child May Bring Home

These are only 3 examples of the many books that your child will be learning from. To see the exact book your child is working in, please see your child’s leader.

All children should come with a

positive attitude for learning God’s

Word.


Price List for Uniforms/Handbooks Cubbies Handbook Cubbie Tote Bag Uniform Vest Sparks Handbook Sparks Tote Bag Uniform Vest T&T Handbook T&T Tote Bag Uniform Polo (sizes 10 – 16) Adult Sizes (adult small – X-Large) (Please do not let finances stand in the way of your child participating in Awana’s. If there is a financial need, please let your child Awana director/leader/commander know and we will work with you so your child may continue to participate in our Awana ministry.)


Discipline To ensure adequate learning and fun for all children, we do have a discipline policy. Awana uses two different “counting methods” but are specific for group order and individual discipline. 5 – Count – is used to bring the group to order. As the leader counts to “5”, children will become quite and still. 3 – Count – is for an individual student. The child is give a “one” the first time they have misbehaved and their action is discussed so they understand the inappropriate behavior. If the child continues to misbehave, then they receive a “two”. The child now sits down with the Awana Commander or Children’s Minister to discuss their behavior. If the child continues to misbehave or be disruptive; they receive a “three”. When the child receives a “three”, they will wait with the Awana Commander, Children’s Minister, and or Pastor for parents to pick child up. The leader will discuss with the parent the reason for this action.

Awana Rules I will respect my leaders I will respect the other clubbers I will be gentle and loving I will keep my hands to myself (except for appreciation or congratulations)


Club Attendance

Club attendance is dived in four quarters. In order for a clubber to qualify for a club attendance award he will need to be at all meetings.

Sunday School is divided into two halves. To receive the Sunday School award the clubber is required to attend all dates during the time of the Awana club. A clubber may attend Sunday School or church outside the Awana church. A note from your Sunday School teacher is required prior to receiving credit.

Team Points (Sparks and T&T Clubs only)

Each child is assigned to a color team (red, blue, green, or yellow). Each child earns points for their team by the following:

Attendance Wearing their complete uniform Attending Sunday School Brining Awana Handbook Brining their Bible Brining a visitor Participating in Game-Time Passing Handbook sections

Awana Store

Clubbers can earn shares (Awana Money) for almost anything, i.e., passing secionts, exhibiting good sportsmanship at game

time, exhibiting “Christ-like” behavior at any time, being the first do what their leader requests, etc… These share can be used in the Awana store to purchase various items. The Awana store will be open twice a year (Last night of the fall and spring club meeting). Clubbers are welcome and encouraged to deposit their shares with the secretary of their club. Clubbers may turn in ideas for things to be bought for the store.


Monthly/Weekly Club Honors

Each night the team with the most point will be recognized. (Points are earned during check-in time, handbook time, and game time.) Once a month the T&T club will recognize their “Truth Trackers.” Truth Trackers are those clubbers who stay “on track” in their handbook. See your director regarding where your child be in their book ac-cording to club nights. Once a month the Sparks club will recognize a “Super Sparkie”. This is a clubber who has achieved high points and has demonstrated “Christ-like” behavior in all areas. At the end of the year, Sparks and T&T will announce high point clubbers of the year.

End of the Year Club Honors


Our purpose is to help your children to take their first little steps on a lifelong spiritual journey. In the Bible, parents are instructed to teach their children about God’s ways…in routine activities…passing along their fait, little by little, day by day. The cubbies program is designed to help leaders and parents in this critical role. The teaching begins at home. Each week, the parents help their Cubbie complete the scheduled Bear Hug. Each aspect of the Bear Hug reinforces the same Bible truth. At club, we will center everything we do in the same truth that you have worked on at home. Our story, games, activities, even our snack will reinforce the teaching your child has received from you. By creating this partnership, we hope to really “cement” that week’s truth into our Cubbies’ minds. Requirements for Memory Work

Cubbies are allowed two “helps” (prompts) per Bear Hug Bear Hugs must be recited in one session. If there are two verses in the Bear

Hug, both must be recited at one session and in the order they appear Four-year-olds must recite the verses and the reference, if they are capable,

but are not required. Cubbie clubbers will recite the verses they have learned at home to their

Cubbies leader during club night. Tips For Parents To Help Child Help your child learn each weekly Bear Hug

Establish a regular time to work on the Bear Hug with your child...morning and evening.

Check the schedule and calendar for what Bear Hug to work on for the next week. Read each week’s Bear Hug to your hild and follow the simples instructions. Listen to your child and recite the verse and sign your name. Be encouraging! Only one Bear Hug will be done per week. The Cubbies will all recite the same Bear

Hug each week. Bring your child to club on time and in uniform

Find a special place at home to keep your child’s book and uniform so it can always be found on Club night easily.

Be sure your child wears the uniform vest to club. The uniform is where their awards are displayed and helps with motivating them to learn and work in their books.

Bring your child to club on time so we can begin and end promptly. Be sure to come inside to pick-up your child.


About the Cubbies Material Bear Hug Brochure: A brochure containing two sample bear hugs as well as basic information about the Cubbies program. All cubbies will complete this first. Celebrations Handbook—Hopper and Jumper: Includes memory verses and activities divided into weekly Bear Hugs that teach basic truths about God. Cubbies complete each week’s Bear Hug at home as background for the teaching at club the next week. Then they repeat the memory verse to their leader at club. Completing every Bear Hug in the book is a requirement for earning a Cubbie Book Award at the end of the year. Each Bear Hug also contains an Under the Apple Tree supplemental section. Under the Apple Tree fun activities are optional, and not required for book completion. Book One and Two: A supplemental book filled with activities and verses that help lay a foundation for godly character. Children work in the book with their parents, and recite the verses to their leader at Cubbies Club. If desired, this book may be used at the same time as the Celebration Handbook. Children may begin at any time and work at their own pace. This is NOT required material. Memory Work Order Bear Hug Brochure: Each Cubbie must complete this brochure before work in the handbook may begin. Handbook: Learning Level A – Complete one Bear Hug each week. All children work on the same Bear Hug at the same time. If your child has missed a week of club, be sure to check the schedule for the current week’s Bear Hugs (maximum of 3 in one day). Do not do any future Bear Hugs. Learning Level B - Under the Apple Tree may be done after the current Bear Hug and any missed Bear Hugs are completed. When you complete an activity, sign it and have your child recite any verses to the leader at club. Your child will receive a special stamp on his hand, and apple stickers for his books. Learning Level C - Cubbies Character Builder sections may be done after the clubber has recited the current Bear Hug, any missed Bear Hugs, and Under the Apple Tree activities. A special Cubbies Bear sticker is given for each completed character lesson. These count toward the maximum of 3 Bear Hugs in a day.


Awards Cubbies are Eligible to Earn Achievement Emblems – completion of the four Lamb Paths and four Elephant paths I a particular handbook Year 1 Book Award – completion of one Celebrations handbook Year 2 Book Award – completion of both Celebrations handbooks Lion Emblems – earned for club attendance Zebra or Giraffe Emblems – earned for Sunday School/Church attendance Cubbie Bear Emblems – completion of Cubbies Character Builders in the supplemental books.


The Typical Sparks Meeting Opening: Sparks club opens with Flag Ceremony (pledge to American flag and pledge to Awana flag, followed by the Awana theme song and a short prayer). Sparkle Time: Leaders work with the Sparkies in small groups as they progress through their handbooks. This is when they recite the verses they have learned at home. Green Meadow Time: Here the Sparkies learn a Bible lesson and sometimes do a craft that goes along with the lesson. We have song time as well. Game Time: The Sparkies are divided into teams to enjoy a time of running, jumping and just plain old fun. Award Time: Awards are handed out for the achievements accomplished during Sparkle Time. Sparks Handbooks Our handbook time (also called Sparkle Time) is an important part of our club. We thought it would be helpful for you, as parents, if we included an explanation of how the handbook is laid out and its guidelines. When your child has attended two consecutive meetings and has completed the Sparks Gate Booklet, then they will become a member of our Sparks club and will receive a membership card. As a member, your child is eligible to wear the Sparkies vest and start on the Skipper handbook. (Please check with the secretary, as the handbooks and vest must be purchased.) There are three handbooks for the Sparks club (one for each grade level). The Sparkies all begin in the first book and are allowed to progress only into the book that corresponds with their grade level. .. (i.e., a clubber beginning club in second grade begins at the Kindergarten level (Skipper handbook) and can progress through all three books in one year – if time permits).


The handbook and awards are broken down as follows: Rank Path: When Sparkies complete this section, they will receive a rank patch to be worn on their vest. They will then begin the “Jewel Sections”. Red Jewels: These four sections consist of Bible drills and deal with different topics from the Bible. These sections must be done in order. Green Jewels: These can be done in any order once the rank path has been finished. They may also be completed along with the red jewels. There are some sections in the green jewels that need to be worked on from home. Please browse through these sections to see what needs to be done to pass these sections. As Sparkies complete their red and green jewels, they are given a crown on which to put these jewels. Four Blue Jewels (also worn on the crown) are given out throughout the club year for club attendance. Two emblems are awarded for Sunday school attendance. Review: When Sparkies have finished their handbook, they can do a review of the book. This is optional. It must be done in the same manner as before. Having completed this, the Sparkie may then go on the Review Island. The award for this is a review patch to be worn on the vest under the crown for the same year. Awards Sparkies May Be Eligible to Earn 1st Book Ribbon – completion of the Skipper handbook Skipper Review Path – completion of Skipper handbook review Skipper Pin – completion of Skipper workbook 2nd Book Ribbon – completion of the Hiker handbook Hiker Review Path – completion of Hiker handbook review Hiker Pin – completion of Hiker workbook 3rd Book Plaque – completion of the Climber handbook Climber Review Path – completion of Climber handbook review Climber Pin – completion of Climber workbook


A Typical Truth and Training Meeting: Opening: Clubbers participate in flag ceremony (pledge to the American flag and pledge to the Awana flag), followed by the Awana theme song and a short prayer. Handbook Time: Leaders work with the clubbers as they progress through their handbooks. This is when they recite the verses that they have learned at home. Game Time: The clubbers are divided into four teams to enjoy a time of safe, fun-filled games. Council Time: Here the clubbers learn a Bible lesson and participate in Bible drills. Award Time: Awards are handed out for the achievements accomplished during handbook time. Truth and Training Handbooks Our handbook time is an important part of our club that takes clubbers on “The Ultimate Adventure”. We thought it might be useful for you, as parents, to include an explanation of how the handbook is laid out and its guidelines. Each clubber who attends club will begin in the Start Zone booklet. When the booklet has been completed, they will start into “The Ultimate Adventure” handbook #1 and be eligible to wear the Truth & Training uniform. (Please check with the club secretary, as the hand-book and uniform must be purchased.) The handbook and awards are broken down as follows: Each handbook contains eight discoveries with seven sections in each to pass. Some of the sections include activities that may need to be done at home. Sections must be done in or-der (no skipping throughout the handbook please) so it’s important for clubbers to look ahead and see that they have done any outside work in order to continue on. THE ONLY EXCEPTION to skipping around is the Bring a friend section in each handbook. Clubbers can (and are encouraged to) bring friends with them anytime throughout the year. After each discovery is passed, clubbers will be awarded a discovery seal to be placed on their award badge, which is part of their uniform.


Silver & Gold Extra Credit Sections Clubbers don’t have to complete sections, but they are fun and they help clubbers learn more about the Bible. To receive credit, all the sections must be done. These sections can be found at the end of each discovery. When all the silver credit sections have been completed, the clubber will receive a silver seal to be placed on their award badge. Gold credit sections follow the same guidelines. Club Attendance: Four club attendance stickers are awarded to clubbers for regular attendance during the Awana club year. Church Attendance: Two church/Sunday school stickers are awarded to clubbers for regular attendance during the club year. Awards Truth and Training Clubbers are Eligible to Receive 1st Book Ribbon – completion of one handbook Excellence Trophy – completion of two handbooks Third Book Award Plaque – completion of three handbooks. Timothy Award – completion of four handbooks

2011-2012 awana handbook (parents) - clover...

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