Last night we held our teacher training night (we do this once every 2 months) we come together and I endeavor to teach on 1-2 topics that could help a teacher be better equipped in his/her classroom or service. Last night, I focused on discipline in the classroom and some practical teaching tips. For my session on discipline, I decided to get another “specialist’s” thoughts and perspective. The one and only Joe McAlpine Skyped in and presented about a 20 minute talk on discipline in KidMin settings. Our team of 28 loved it! (We even got treated to an extra special guest, David, Joe’s 4 year old son made a sudden appearance – spider-man hat and all!) I appreciated Joe’s willingness to give up some time and give his thoughts and perspective.
Now less then a year ago, Joe (who teamed up with Terry Cuthbertson) hosted a conference in which they had me Skype in for a session (which I was honored to do)
Most of what Joe talked about were things that I could have said. But, there’s just something about bringing in a guest who is perceived as a “specialist” The percepting is funny: “This guy is from the other side of the country, he obviously knows what he’s talking about…”
I also think it’s just a good idea to bring in a new face and a different voice from time to time. So, here’s what I got to thinking: I’m willing to give up a few minutes once in a while to help a fellow KidMin pastor/leader with a training session via Skype. And I’m guessing some of you are too. I mean, it’s not difficult to set up and your team will feel like they are getting a “specialist’s” perspective. Start a pool of KidMin Leaders in your network of friends that are willing to give up a few minutes once in a while to Skype in (iChat/Tokbox/etc) to KidMin Training times.
That is a GREAT idea! I would do it, I just need to think of what I could help someone else with. I saw the post on cmconnect as well. Do you have a central location of interested people? Maybe compile a list of topics?
I have been doing this for a while and now am looking into the possibilities of doing it with G+ which will allow a lot more to be included with no fee into the video call.
Jamie,
What if we roll this option into my new site which is dedicated to free or very affordable kidmin coaching : kidmincoaching.com. I could build a live streaming area on the site and when kidmin’s have extra time or a message they could give they could stream live to a group or the world. I would provide all the streaming capabiltiy and give all the kidmin” coaches” access to the stream.
Let me know what you think..
Blessings,
Jeremy