Staying Stress-Free This Holiday Season: A Heartfelt Encouragement for Children’s Ministry Leaders

The holiday season in Children’s Ministry is nothing short of beautiful. It’s magical, meaningful, and full of opportunities to point little hearts toward Jesus. But let’s be honest — it can also be a lot. Extra programs. Special services. Parent expectations. Volunteer schedules. The pressure to make everything “just right” for the families you serve. And in the middle of it all, you — the leader who pours out joy even when your own cup feels a little empty.

This year, I want to remind you of something sacred:You are not responsible for creating the perfect holiday… Jesus already came as perfection. You’re simply invited to serve with joy, not strain. With grace, not grind. With peace, not pressure.

As you step into this season, here are a few heartfelt ways to stay refreshed, grounded, and stress-free while leading well:

1. Keep the Main Thing the Main Thing

Holiday programming has a funny way of growing legs and running away from us. One moment you’re planning a simple service… the next you’re coordinating choirs, costumes, crafts, snacks, photo booths, live animals, and a partridge in a pear tree.

Breathe. Jesus is enough.

Ask yourself: “Will this help a child know Jesus more clearly, or is this just making the program heavier?”

Simplify boldly. God moves in the simple just as powerfully as He moves in the spectacular.

2. Choose Presence Over Perfection

Kids don’t need a flawless production; they need a ministry leader who sees them.

They’ll remember:

• the smile you gave them,

• the way you knelt to their level,

• the moment you said their name,

• or the hug you offered when they walked in, shy or unsure.

Your peaceful presence is far more impactful than the perfect holiday craft. Presence is ministry. 

3. Protect Your Quiet Time Like Holiday Gold

You cannot pour out from an empty soul. In this season, your secret place becomes your safe place. Whether it’s five minutes in your car before you walk in…Whether it’s a whispered prayer over your coffee…Whether it’s a slow worship song while you fold curriculum…

Give Jesus the chance to fill you before you serve others. He never fails to refresh those who draw near.

4. Delegate with Joy, Not Guilt

Your volunteers want to help. They signed up because God stirred their hearts — don’t rob them of that blessing! Give away tasks that don’t require your leadership voice. Empower others to shine. Let the body truly function as the body. Remember: You’re not meant to be the whole team. You’re meant to lead one. 

5. Build Moments of Rest Into Your Calendar

Circle them. Highlight them. Protect them. Your rest is not lazy; it is holy stewardship.

During the holidays, rest is not optional — it’s essential.

Allow space to:

• Sit with your family

• Breathe deeply

• Laugh

• Do something that brings you joy

• Be still without a checklist

You are a better leader when your soul has room to breathe.

6. Celebrate the Small, Sacred Wins

God is moving around you — sometimes subtly, sometimes loudly. Don’t miss the miracles hiding in plain sight.

Look for moments like:

• A child singing a worship song with joy

• Volunteers laughing together

• A shy kid opening up

• A parent thanking you for making their child feel loved

• The Holy Spirit whispering peace over you

These moments are God’s way of saying, “I’m here. I’m in this with you.” 

Pause to celebrate them. These are the true gifts of the season.

7. Remember: Jesus Didn’t Ask You to Carry Christmas

You are not the Savior — you point to Him.

You don’t sustain the ministry — He does.

You don’t have to make everything perfect — His glory shines in imperfect places.

This season is not about producing magic; it’s about welcoming Majesty. Let the wonder of Emmanuel — God with us — steady your heart and calm your spirit.

This holiday season, know you are seen. You are appreciated. Heaven celebrates the way you love God’s children.

So, if no one has told you lately:

Thank you for the way you serve.

Thank you for the way you give.

Thank you for the way you show Jesus.

This holiday season, may peace guard you, joy strengthen you, and the presence of Jesus surround you like a warm blanket. Breathe deeply — you’re doing better than you think. And the One you serve delights in you. 

Always rooting for you!

Esther