Caravan Children’s Program

Wednesday nights, 6:30pm-7:30 pm – six weeks at the time

Pointing kids in the direction of Christ

Caravan is a scouting—or kids' club—type of program for children in first through sixth grade. Classes meet once a week throughout the school year. Caravan uses an active, hands-on learning approach to help children grow physically, socially, mentally, and spiritually. Caravan focuses on teaching everyday skills with a distinctly Christian focus.

Children become members of one of the four major group based on their age- Tell Me “The Story” ( Preschool and Kindergarten), Searchers (first and second graders), Explorers (third and fourth graders), or Adventurers (fifth and sixth graders).

The Word “caravan” refers to a group of travelers on a journey. The children will be on a exciting journey that leads them to new insights about themselves, their world, other people, the church and God.

Purpose

Based on Luke 2:52, “Jesus grew in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and men,”

Caravan emphasis spiritual formation and provides opportunities for children to :

·      Grow in their faith.

·      Discover and use essential skills

·      Develop self-esteem

·      Experience positive relationships and a sense of belonging

·      Participate in outreach and service projects

·      Learn about Christian Heritage

Age-Groups

Caravan includes four age and grade groups. They are:

1)Nursery- 2 and 3 years old
2)Tell Me the Story (4 year old Preschool and Kindergarten)

3) Searchers (Grades 1 and 2)
4) Explorers (Grades 3 and 4)
5) Adventurers (Grades 5 and 7)

Nursery Fun

For children ages 2 & 3. In this early stage of life, children need an environment where they can play and be with other playmates. During the hour, the children will be playing with toys and other new friends their own age, watch a short film and have snacks.

4 year old Preschoolers and Kindergarten Caravan “Tell Me The Story”

Children will be learning bible stories from the New Testament in a age appropriate way. Activities, songs, movies, games and scripture.

Elementary Caravan
The New Caravan Ministry has both classic and new components in it. There are six major components.

Spiritual formation is a major emphasis in all Caravan groups. In Searcher, a Bible verse and emphasis are woven throughout each badge. In Explorer and Adventurer, every badge has a Bible point, devotional thought and core value.

Scouting has been a foundational aspect of Caravan since its formation in the 1940s. Children may earn badges that are placed on a scarf, sash, or banner.

Life Application. Caravan helps children develop skills they can use throughout life. These skills help with practical everyday living and also strengthen the children’s spiritual life.

 Ministry opportunities introduce children to ministry by using the skills they are learning to serve others. Ministry projects are optional, but they are highly recommended.

Nazarene Heritage. Caravan helps children learn about the doctrine and heritage of the Church of the Nazarene

Skill Development Caravan provides hands-on experiences to help children discover and use unique talents and abilities in their personal and family life, the church and the community. All badges are written for children to learn a skill. While they earn a badge, they also can use the skill to serve others.