014: How to Handle Behavioral Issues
Handling behavioral issues can feel like walking a tightrope—wanting kids to feel loved and welcomed while also maintaining a safe and fun environment for everyone. In this episode of Kids Ministry Answers, Jonathan has a question about how to respond to behavioral challenges in a way that focuses on positive outcomes. So Linda and Jason share a simple, grace-filled framework to help leaders and volunteers correct behavior with clarity, consistency, and care.
QUESTION:
“How do you handle behavioral issues in a graceful way that focuses less on consequences and more on positive outcomes, while keeping the environment safe and fun?” — Jonathan
ANSWER:
In this episode, we’ll talk about how to:
- Protect the environment so every child and volunteer feels safe and supported
- Use a clear “Redirect, Remove, Refer” framework to respond calmly and consistently
- Partner with families to support long-term growth, not just short-term compliance
Ask a Question:
Got a question you want answered? Send it in at kma.show — your question might be featured in a future episode!
Got a question you want answered? Send it in at kma.show — your question might be featured in a future episode!
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Resources Mentioned:
- Volunteer Handbook
- Parent Conversations - Behavioral Problems
Creators and Guests
Host
Jason Sivewright
Jason Sivewright is the Creative Lead at Stuff You Can Use and Co-Pastor of Engage South KC in Kansas City, Missouri. He also owns his own LLC called Sweet Boy Books with which he writes and publishes children's books. If you'd like to chat with Jason about worship arts, writing, speaking, creating, or his dog, “Tyrannosaurus Cubby Rex,” reach out! He would love to connect with you!
Host
Linda Moon
Dr. Linda Moon is the Executive Director of Curriculum at Stuff You Can Use, Associate Pastor and Director of Education at her church in La Cañada, California, and hosts the podcast Calling Water. She holds master’s degrees in Cross-Cultural Studies and Theology from Fuller Theological Seminary and a Doctorate in Educational Leadership with a specialization in Educational Psychology from the University of Southern California.
Producer
Caitlyn Smelser
Caitlyn Smelser is the Executive Assistant at Stuff You Can Use and former youth pastor. On any given day you'll find her out for a run, hiking with her dog, Gus, or paddle-boarding on the lake. If you'd like to chat with Caitlyn about where to find the best hiking trails or how to make a perfect french macaron, she'd love to connect with you!
