Children’s Ministry Certification is a self-paced, online, live, or correspondence certificate program for children’s ministers. Presently, it consists of two levels of mastery for the children’s minister: a basic competency level and a leadership level. Within each level of training, each module includes video presentations, assignments, assessments, and supplemental resource materials.

After viewing each module and successfully completing assignments, participants are issued a certificate of completion for each course they finish.

To better serve you, CM Certification courses have moved to the LDDTraining platform, giving you one centralized place for online learning that’s easier to navigate and provides a better overall experience.

Courses are available in English and Spanish.

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Level One Courses

Ten Basic Competencies for the Children’s Minister

Students completing all Level 1 certification courses can apply for an endorsement in Children’s Ministry. Students may request the endorsement process to begin by emailing cgpkids@cogop.org.

As well as the CM Endorsement, students completing Level 1 certification courses may be awarded three credit hours with Spirit and Life Seminary (SLS) toward the Seminary’s course Essentials of Children’s Ministry (CM200). CM200 is part of the Certificate in Ministry and Theological Studies program at SLS. Eligibility for credit hours is dependent upon application to and acceptance by SLS. For more information, email info@slsem.org or visit spiritandlifeseminary.org

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The Pursuit of Intimacy

As you view the videos in this training module you will be able to minister to children more effectively because of an intimate, daily relationship with God through worship, study of the Word, and prayer.

Make the Tool of Curriculum Work For You

As you view the video in this training module you will develop or strengthen the competency of critiquing, selecting and adapting curriculum so that your ministry objectives are accomplished.

Teaching Children Right Where They Are

Creative Teaching Methods You Can Use

This training module, “Creative Teaching Methods You Can Use” will equip you to use creative methods to effectively teach Bible truth.

Leading Children To Receive God’s Good Gifts

This training module will better equip you to teach children biblical truth related to the experiences of salvation, sanctification and Holy Spirit baptism and pray effectively with children who are seeking these experiences.

Build A Bible Lesson

As you view this video you will develop or strengthen the competency of creating a Bible lesson that incorporates effective teaching methods, is age-appropriate, and motivates children to grow in Christ likeness.

Making Your Classroom A Place Kids Want To Be

As you view the videos in this training module you will develop or strengthen the competencies of maintaining a classroom environment that encourages appropriate behavior, is safe for all children, and stimulates learning and/or ministry.

Special Needs, Special Ministry

As you view the videos in this training module you will be better equipped to create an effective learning and ministry environment for special needs children based on a good understanding of their emotional, physical, social, and spiritual characteristics and needs.

Effective Discipleship Of Children

This training module, “Effective Discipleship of Children” will equip you to help children KNOW God’s Word, LIVE God’s Word, and SERVE others.

Ministering To Children In Crisis

This training module will better equip you to understand some of the unique characteristics of children in crisis situations. As you understand these characteristics, you will be able to minister to children in ways that lead them to the God who heals all wounds- physical and emotional.

Level Two Courses

Leadership in Children’s Ministry

Students completing all Level 2 Leadership courses will receive a Leadership Certificate from International Children’s Ministry. Students completing all Level 2 certification courses may be awarded three elective credit hours with Spirit and Life Seminary (SLS). Eligibility for credit hours is dependent upon application to and acceptance by SLS. For more information, email info@slsem.org or visit spiritandlifeseminary.org

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The Children’s Ministry Leader: Calling, Preparation, and Pursuit

This course explores the vital role of children’s ministry in God’s mission and the Church’s future, grounding leaders in the biblical and strategic importance of reaching children. Participants will clarify their calling, identify essential leadership qualities, and develop practical and spiritual habits that strengthen effective ministry to children and families.

Leadership 101

Foundational skills, spiritual wisdom, and core responsibilities required for effective leadership in children’s ministry are explored. Biblical and leadership models, the role of the Holy Spirit in leadership development, and practical areas such as vision, team leadership, stewardship, and ministry strategy are emphasized.

Value and Spiritual Life of Children

The value and spiritual life of children are examined through biblical, historical, and practical lenses, challenging cultural and ecclesial assumptions that diminish children’s place in the kingdom of God. Emphasis is placed on developing a sound theology that affirms children as image-bearers and shapes ministry practices that reflect God’s commitment to every child.

Charting the Course: Planning in Children’s Ministry

Strategic planning in children’s ministries is explored as a vital practice for providing direction, purpose, and lasting impact on children and families. Biblical foundations and practical tools for planning are emphasized, including mission and vision development, ministry strategy, policies and procedures, calendaring, and budgeting.

Structuring for Growth: Organizing in Children’s Ministry

Effective organization in children’s ministries is examined as essential for healthy growth, coordination, and ministry impact. Biblical foundations and practical structures for organizing are emphasized, including team roles, job descriptions, effective meetings, and leadership decision-making that support ministry vision and growth.

Building and Leading the Children’s Ministry Team

In children’s ministry, a great team seldom comes together on its own. As the leader, you have a significant role in not only staffing your ministry but also developing those around you to their God-given potential. In doing so, you help your staff grow in their abilities while also establishing effective and excellent ministries to kids. 

In this lesson, we will look at the processes involved in, orienting, training, developing, and shepherding individuals to serve in children’s ministries. 

Directing in Children’s Ministry

Children’s ministry directors develop and mentor leaders, collaborate with committees and pastors, and advance God’s mission. Practical, relational strategies help directors excel in each area while leading with excellence and purpose.

How Are We Doing? Evaluating the Children’s Ministry

Evaluation helps leaders answer the question, “How are we doing?” by establishing standards, clarifying roles, and reinforcing ministry objectives. It promotes personal growth among volunteers, guides necessary changes, and strengthens ministry methods to advance effectiveness and impact.

Communicating Effectively

Effective communication is essential for children’s ministry, shaping how we serve children, families, volunteers, and church teams. Clear and consistent communication strengthens ministry impact, team growth, and program success. Leaders will explore communication principles, identify key audiences, and learn practical tools for delivering the right message at the right time.