Virtual VBS

DIRECTORS GUIDE
 Table of
Contents

RECOMMENDED RESOURCES FOR VIRTUAL VBS������PAGE 4

PICK YOUR TIME FRAME & FORMAT�������������������������������PAGE 5

SCHEDULE OPTIONS �����������������������������������������������������������PAGE 7

ORGANIZE YOUR TEAMS����������������������������������������������������PAGE 8

Music Team

Drama Team

Decorating Team

Preschool Bible Study Team

Children’s Bible Study Team

Crafts Team

Recreation Team

Missions Team

Snack Team

Registration/Communication Team

Media Team

TIPS FOR RECORDING GOOD VIDEO������������������������������ PAGE 11

SUGGESTED BIBLE STUDY ACTIVITIES������������������������� PAGE 13

SUGGESTED RECREATION GAMES��������������������������������� PAGE 15

SUGGESTIONS FOR A VIRTUAL CRAFTS ROTATION� PAGE 16

MUSIC AND VIDEO USAGE����������������������������������������������� PAGE 17

“VBS AT HOME KITS”��������������������������������������������������������� PAGE 18

FAMILY CELEBRATIONS AND FOLLOW-UP������������������� PAGE 19

 Introduction

Vacation Bible School is more than just a week of fun. For many churches, it is the single most evangelistic
outreach event of the year. VBS opens the doors of your church to your community and reaches children
and their families like nothing else. It connects the people of your church to your neighbors, and it deepens
your connection to the kids and families who attend your church regularly. VBS is all about sharing the
gospel and allowing the Holy Spirit to do His work. It’s worth doing—regardless of what form your VBS may
take—because it facilitates relationships, encourages conversations about Jesus, plants the seeds of the
gospel, and allows hearts to be transformed for eternity!

This Virtual VBS Directors Guide is a supplement to (not a replacement for) the VBS Administrative Guide.
You’ll want to consult the Administrative Guide for timelines, budgeting, tips for enlisting and training
volunteers, kick-off and follow-up ideas, and so forth. A virtual VBS, however, has a few unique challenges,
which are addressed in this guide. We hope it will be helpful to you in organizing and conducting a virtual or
hybrid VBS (combining a traditional, in-person VBS with a virtual option either concurrent with or after the
on-site VBS).

As you plan, keep in mind that a virtual VBS will not naturally provide the same kind of engagement as
in-person gatherings. That will take work and intentionality! Ask your team: “What can we do to provide
intentional opportunities for relationship-building and engagement through our virtual VBS?” Look for
ways to provide families more than just something else to watch. Create engagement and community—not
consumers. Consumers will watch if they feel like it, don’t if something better comes along. Consumers don’t
feel the same level of commitment or the longing to be part of what’s going on. Remember that the best way
to share the gospel is in the context of relationship. So look for ways throughout your virtual VBS that will
allow relationships to develop naturally and draw people to Christ.

Blessings on your VBS!

Lifeway VBS Team

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 Recommended
Resources for
Virtual VBS

☐ DIRECTORS KIT—Full of resources to help you ☐ FAMILY CONNECTION BUNDLE (available for
begin planning. Includes samples of the music and Destination Dig only)—The perfect “at home
activity books for every age (3s–6th grade) so that kit” for a virtual VBS. Deliver one to each family
you can decide if you want to include one for each registered for your VBS. Contains:
child in whatever you send home with families for • One Gospel Guide (plan of salvation)
the week of VBS. • One Parent Guide (daily family devotions and
activities for each day)
☐ MULTI-AGE STARTER KIT WITH DIGITAL LEADER • One Music for Kids CD (to enjoy the VBS songs)
GUIDES ADD-ON—The digital add-on is an extra • One Worship Rally Booklet (contains the motto,
$30, but is essential for a virtual VBS. The Starter scripture, and lyrics to the VBS songs)
Kit includes everything you’ll need for Bible study • One Dig Site Tool Set (a set of 3 archaeology
and rotations. The digital add-on gives you the tools for kids to use in VBS activities)
video files for music rotation and missions rotation • One Folding Magnifier (to use with activities)
so you can share them easily during a Virtual VBS. Customize the Family Activity Bundle by dropping
It also gives you a PDF of every leader guide so in additional things like one Kids Craft Pack for
that you can share them easily (via email) with each child in the family, a beanbag or bandanna for
the people who will be on camera leading a Bible games, prepackaged snacks, etc.
study or a rotation time. With a virtual VBS, you’ll
have a wide age-range in the audience so you ☐ KIDS FUN BUNDLE—Includes one each of the
won’t need to break it down any further than all Kids Memory Maker, Kids Activity Book, Name Tag,
preschoolers and all kids (if you break it down by Kids Wrap, and a themed backpack (which can
ages at all). be used to collect all of the “per child” items for
delivery).
☐ DIGITAL WORSHIP RALLY PACK—Includes
everything you’ll need for a virtual worship ☐ DAILY BIBLE STORY VIDEOS (available for
rally such as choreography videos to learn Destination Dig only)—Families can watch these
the motions ahead of time, lyrics and motions videos of a storyteller telling the Bible story each
videos to show on the screen to help the kids day (optional). Join the free VBS Directors Club
at home, presentation files (for ProPresenter® or at [Link]/vbsdirectorsclub to download these
PowerPoint®) so that you can show the verse, videos.
motto, pledges, and Bible story pictures on the
screen, a free font to use in all of your graphics, ☐ “VBS AT HOME” ON MINISTRY GRID (available
and more. This will be your go-to resource for Destination Dig only)—Free “family VBS”
for making your virtual VBS look and feel like resources for families to view and complete at
Destination Dig in an all-virtual environment. (Also home. Simply send the access link to families each
available as a physical guide and CDs/DVDs.) day of VBS. Access to “VBS at Home” resources
will be emailed to those who purchase one of the
☐ KIDS CRAFTS BUNDLE (available for Destination Destination Dig Starter Kits with Digital Leader
Dig® only)—Includes five crafts (1 for each day), Guides Add-on.
individually packaged per child. Everything is
already pre-sorted and pre-cut, making it easy to
deliver a daily craft to each child.

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 Pick Your Time
Frame & Format

A virtual VBS is a scaled back VBS. You won’t be able to hold kids’ attention as long in a virtual setting as in
person. Consider adjusting the length of each segment in your schedule or only offering certain rotations on
certain days (rather than all rotations every day). How many days of virtual VBS will you offer? Lifeway provides
five days of Bible study. If you plan to do less than five days, choose which of the following you will include.

WE WILL USE THE FOLLOWING SESSIONS:

☐ DAY 1 ☐ DAY 4
• Truth: Jesus Came as God Promised • Truth: Jesus Died and Rose Again
• Bible Story: Jesus Was Born (Isaiah 7:14; • Bible Story: Jesus Is Alive (Isaiah 53:5,9-11;
Micah 5:2; Matthew 1:18–2:6) John 19:17–20:18)
• Today’s Point: Jesus is the Savior • Today’s Point: Jesus fulfilled God’s plan to
God promised. be our Savior.

☐ DAY 2 ☐ DAY 5
• Truth: Jesus Demonstrated God’s Power • Truth: The Bible Is True
• Bible Story: Jesus Healed a Blind Man • Bible Story: Philip Told the Good News
(Psalm 146:8; Isaiah 35:5-6a; John 9:1-41) (Isaiah 53:7-8; Acts 8:26-40)
• Today’s Point: Jesus has the power • Today’s Point: The Bible is true and helps us
God promised. tell others about Jesus.

☐ DAY 3
• Truth: Jesus Was Betrayed and Rejected
• Bible Story: Jesus Experienced Betrayal and
Rejection (Psalm 41:9; Isaiah 53:3,7; John 13;
18:1– 19:16)
• Today’s Point: Jesus knew what would happen
and still followed God’s plan.

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 Pick Your Time
Frame & Format

TIME OF DAY WILL “VBS AT HOME” MATERIALS BE GEARED

TOWARD THE CHILD OR THE FAMILY?
Do you want every family to “attend” (watch) live at
the same time? Or will you allow families to attend When preparing items to send home for families to
whenever is convenient for them? use during VBS, you’ll need to decide if you want to
☐ Watch live. send home things specific to the age of each child,
☐ Watch later. or keep things more general for a wide age-range
of children. (Keep in mind some families may have a
preschooler and a preteen at home.)
If live, will you stream your VBS live or prerecord and
schedule videos to go live at a certain time? OUR “VBS AT HOME KITS” WILL BE:
☐ Livestream ☐ Child/age-specific
☐ Prerecord ☐ Family-centered
☐ Family Kit with additional items per child
What platform will you use to host your virtual VBS?
☐ Zoom®
Refer to page 18 for ideas on what to include in “VBS
☐ Facebook® at Home Kits.”
☐ YouTube®
☐ Church website
☐ Livestreaming service
☐ Other

Who typically handles your church’s audio/video/

streaming? ______________________
• Consult with this person before selecting which
platform you’ll use. He/she will understand your
church’s capabilities and restrictions and help
you choose the best option.
• Enlist this person NOW to be the point person
for all tech elements of your virtual VBS.
• Get the dates of your VBS on his/her calendar.
• Ask him/her to enlist a media team who
will handle all A/V, lighting, recording, and
streaming/web posting.

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 Schedule
Suggestions

OPTION 1 (1 HOUR)
This option works well for livestreaming as each element can happen back-to-back in the same room.
(TIP: Leaders will need to move into place quickly to avoid long delays between each element.)
• Theme Song (dancers on stage, lyrics on screen) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 minutes
• Welcome (VBS Director, Pastor, or Children’s Minister)������������������������������������������������������������������������ 2 minutes
• Opening Skit (from Worship Rally Guide) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 minutes
• Song of the Day (briefly teach key motions) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 minutes
• Bible Story (plus game or application activity) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 minutes
• Craft (choose one that goes along with the Bible story) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 minutes
• Daily Drama Video (from Worship Rally DVD) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 minutes
• Recreation Game . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 minutes
• Missions Video (from Missions Rotation DVD) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 minutes
• Closing Skit (from Worship Rally Guide) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 minutes
• Closing Announcements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 minutes
• Theme Song������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������ 3 minutes

TIP: Keep the age of the “audience” in mind for all games, crafts, and Bible stories. Aim for the middle (2nd
or 3rd grade level).

OPTION 2 (90 MINUTES)

• Worship Rally . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20 minutes
→ Livestreamed or prerecorded—includes music, motto/Scripture, skit and/or daily drama video,
announcements, and so forth.
• Bible Study (prerecorded or live gathering via Zoom or similar)
→ Preschool (Bible story, game, song) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 minutes
→ Children (Bible story, game, application activity) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 minutes
• Craft . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 minutes
→ Printed instructions and supplies; one craft per day per child; demonstration video optional
• Recreation Game . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 minutes
→ Printed instructions or demonstration video
• Missions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 minutes
→ Daily video or missionary story summary; plus prayer, game, or activity

WHAT ABOUT SNACKS?

Provide prepackaged snacks or pre-measured ingredients & instructions for families to assemble snacks at
home. Families can enjoy the snacks at any point during their virtual VBS experience.

Something to Think About: Not every element has to be included every day of your virtual VBS.
For example, you might opt to offer crafts on three days and missions on the other two days. A little
variety from day to day will keep things feeling fresh!

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 Organize
Your Teams

Virtual VBS may not require as many volunteers as an in-person VBS, but it will require you to assign
specific tasks to specific teams. Enlist a point person (or team leader) for each team and allow that person to
recruit help as needed. (Keep in mind that some teams may consist of only one person.) Omit any teams that
will not be included in your VBS.

PREP YOUR TEAMS DECORATING TEAM

• Create a punch list for each team. Be specific in This team will be responsible for decorating any
what you need each team to accomplish. areas that will be seen on camera including, but not
• Schedule time and space on the church limited to:
calendar for teams to meet together to organize • Worship Rally stage.
and prepare. • Focal walls for video recordings.
• Schedule “packing days” to assemble • Outdoor banners and promotional displays.
everything that will be sent home for families to
use during VBS.
PRESCHOOL BIBLE STUDY TEAM
This team is responsible for an age-appropriate
MUSIC TEAM
Bible study experience for preschoolers (and their
This team is responsible for leading music during parents). The team will:
VBS. (Note: It is not necessary to have a separate • Review the Multi-age Preschool Bible Study
Music Rotation and a Worship Rally in a virtual VBS.) Leader Guide and select activities and
• The team leader will recruit “dancers” to games that work well in a virtual setting. (A
perform the music and motions. recommended list is available on pages 13-14.)
• The team leader will conduct rehearsals and • Use the Bible Story Pictures included in the
ensure each team member learns the songs and Multi-age Preschool Leader Pack (digital files
motions for VBS. available on Disc 2 of the Worship Rally CD Set)
• The team leader will select the songs to be and other pack items as needed.
included each day. • Hold the Bible while telling the Bible story to
• Videos to learn and practice the motions can help preschoolers understand that the story is
be found on the Worship Rally DVD Set, Music true and comes from the Bible.
Rotation DVD, and the VBS app. Purchase the • Lead preschoolers (and their parents) in a short
digital versions to share the videos easily. virtual group time whether in a prerecorded,
• Participate in follow-up strategies after VBS. livestreamed, or interactive virtual (Zoom)
setting.
• Participate in follow-up strategies after VBS.
DRAMA TEAM
NOTE: If you do not have the personnel or the
This team of actors is responsible for performing the
technology to record the five Bible stories,
skits during Worship Rally. Two actors are needed to:
preschool Bible story videos (for Destination Dig
• Memorize the scripts found in the Worship Rally
only) are available in the VBS Directors Club
Guide. To customize the skits, please see the
([Link]/vbsdirectorsclub).
digital files located on Disc 2 of the Worship
Rally CD Set.
• Secure any costumes and props needed.
• Rehearse ahead of time.
• Perform the skits during VBS.

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 Organize
Your Teams

CHILDREN’S BIBLE STUDY TEAM • Sort and count out supplies, then individually
package each craft (per child).
This team is responsible for an age-appropriate
→ Save Time! Purchase one VBS 2021 Kids
Bible study experience for children (Grades 1–6).
Crafts Bundle (005834533) for each child.
The team will:
This pack includes five crafts (1 per day)
• Review the Multi-age Kids Bible Study Leader
already presorted and prepackaged for one
Guide and select activities and games that work
child. More information on page 16.
well in a virtual setting. (A recommended list is
• Participate in follow-up strategies after VBS.
available on page 14.)
• Use the Bible Story Pictures included in the
Multi-age Kids Leader Pack (digital files available RECREATION TEAM
on the Worship Rally CD Set) and other pack
items as needed. This team is responsible for selecting games for
• Hold the Bible while telling the Bible story to VBS. This team will:
help kids understand that the story is true and • Review the Recreation Rotation Cards and
comes from the Bible. Preschool Recreation Rotation Cards (found in
• Lead kids in a large group Bible study experience the 3s–Kindergarten Rotation Pack).
whether in a prerecorded, livestreamed, or • Select one recreation game per day that meets
interactive virtual (Zoom) setting. the following criteria (see recommended list on
• Participate in follow-up strategies after VBS. page 15):
→ Requires only basic, household items.
NOTE: If you do not have the personnel or the → Can be played alone or as a family unit (no
technology to record the five Bible stories, kids large groups).
Bible story videos (for Destination Dig only) are → Requires little to no adult supervision.
available in the VBS Directors Club ([Link]/ • Create and photocopy instructions for each
vbsdirectorsclub). recreation game to be sent home.
• Optional: Create an instructional video,
explaining how to play the game.
CRAFTS TEAM • Create a list of any simple/cheap supplies that
need to be purchased and given to each family
This team is responsible for selecting the crafts for
(for example: cups, bandannas, beanbags).
VBS. The team will:
• Purchase supplies or submit the list for a staff
• Review the Crafts Rotation Leader Guide,
member to purchase.
Preschool Arts & Crafts Rotation Leader Guide
• Sort and count out supplies and instructions for
(found in the 3s–Kindergarten Rotation Pack),
each family.
and Craft Pack options.
• Participate in follow-up strategies after VBS.
• Select one craft per day. (Will you provide
separate crafts for preschoolers and children
or simply choose one craft that will work for all
ages?)
• Create and photocopy instructions for each craft
to be sent home.
• Optional: Create an instructional video, walking
children through how to make each craft.
• Create a complete and detailed supply list.
Purchase supplies or submit the list for a staff
member to purchase.
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 Organize
Your Teams

MISSIONS TEAM families will be participating, the ages of the children, and home
addresses in order to prepare and deliver “at home kits” prior
This team will prepare and lead the missions segment during
to VBS as well as follow up with families after VBS.
VBS. The team leader will:
• Choose a method for collecting registration. (We
• Review the Missions Rotation Leader Guide and
recommend Lifeway’s KidEvent Pro® KidEvent Pro allows
Preschool Missions Rotation Leader Guide (found in the
you to:
3s–Kindergarten Rotation Pack) and select activities and
→ Create a custom landing page with details about your
games that work well in a virtual setting.
virtual VBS and links to register online.
• Outline a daily missions segment to fill the amount of time
→ Register participants online.
allotted by the VBS Director. Keep in mind the ages of the
→ Send emails to parents.
children who will be watching and choose elements that
→ Print mailing labels.
work well for all ages.
→ And much more!
• Work with your VBS Director to determine a hands-on
• Decide what information needs to be gathered.
mission project and/or offering goal that families can
• Create the registration form.
contribute to during VBS.
• Manage registration prior to VBS. Set an appropriate cut-
• Download the daily missions videos and send the ones
off date to close registration.
you want to include to your Media Team Leader. (Note: If
• Report your attendance totals to Lifeway within two weeks
your church purchased a Starter Kit with the Digital Leader
of your event by completing the VBS Report at
Guides Add-on, you already have the video files. If not,
[Link]/churchreport.
follow the instructions in the front of the Missions Rotation
• Supply mailing labels and/or address lists for delivery of
Leader Guide to download the videos from the cloud.)
the “at home kits.”
• If you do not wish to use the missions videos, you may use
• Assist the VBS Director with follow-up efforts after VBS.
the story summaries included in the leader guide to talk
• Frequently communicate details about how and when to
about the missionaries each day.
access virtual VBS with families leading up to VBS.
• Prerecord or present the missions segment during the
• Send daily communications to families with updates;
livestream of your church’s virtual VBS.
direct links (URLs) to access virtual VBS; the Bible story
• Participate in follow-up strategies after VBS.
reference(s), motto, Scripture, and The Point; daily offering
totals; and so forth.
SNACK TEAM
This team will be responsible for snacks during VBS. The team will: MEDIA TEAM
• Review the Snack Rotation Recipe Cards.
The media team will be responsible for all A/V, lighting,
• Work with the VBS Director to determine how many snacks
recording, and streaming/web posting. The team will:
will be supplied to each family (e.g. 1 per day, or 3 total).
• Commit to being available each day of VBS.
• Select suitable snacks.
• Decide on an online platform for delivering your virtual
• Create a detailed supply list. Purchase supplies or turn in
VBS (e.g. YouTube, church website, etc.).
the supply list for a staff member to purchase.
• Troubleshoot prior to and during VBS.
• Create a card for each snack (this may include assembly
• Schedule rehearsals and/or recording slots for all videos.
instructions, a Bible review statement, or a question for
• Secure media releases as needed (particularly for any
families to discuss as they enjoy their snacks). Photocopy
minors appearing on video).
one per family.
• Ensure the proper steps are taken for compliance with U.S.
• Sort and assemble snack packs for each family.
copyright laws (see p. 17).
• Handle all technical aspects of streaming or posting your
REGISTRATION/COMMUNICATION TEAM
VBS online.
This team will be responsible for setting up online registration • Monitor any live chat or comments during the virtual VBS
and maintaining records as well as communicating with families and delete any inappropriate comments.
before, during, and after VBS. Preregistration is critical to the
success of a virtual VBS as it is imperative to know how many

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 Tips for Recording
Good Video

If professional video equipment is not available, don’t despair! Most cell phones have excellent cameras that
will work just fine for recording videos for your virtual VBS. If using a cell phone to record video.

VIDEO: • Visualize dividing the image on the screen into

thirds with horizontal lines. Your eyes should be
• Record using the REAR camera on your phone.
around the intersection of the top and middle
(The rear camera is much better than the front-
third (see example below).
facing camera on your phone. No selfies.)
• Turn the camera sideways to record in
horizontal/landscape mode. Do not record video
in vertical/portrait mode.
• Use a tripod to keep your phone steady and still.

LIGHTING:
One of the best ways to achieve good video is to
have proper lighting. Large, soft sources are key to
having good lighting.
• Hold your arms out at shoulder height in front • Use a tripod or stabilize the camera phone
of you in a V. If at all possible, place a soft light using something stable like a desk or table.
source where each of your hands is to point • Look at the camera lens on the back of your
light back at you. (For example, a window on phone. Make eye contact with the camera just
one side and a lamp with the shade removed as you would maintain eye contact when talking
on the other side.) Your face should be well lit. live to a person.
Do not film with your back to a window or a • Remember to smile often and use your facial
bright light, as this will cause your face to be in expressions to convey the heart behind your
shadow. words. Be as engaging as possible to connect
• Face a large window that has daylight coming in. with your audience.
Position the camera in front of the window facing • Pause for a moment after you hit record … take
the room, then adjust your distance to the camera a deep breath, settle, smile, then begin.
to frame up the shot. It’s OK to have the sun
coming in through the window, but avoid sitting/ AUDIO:
standing in direct sunlight. (Note: Sheer curtains
Record in a quiet room free from background noise
can help soften the harsh sun pouring in.)
from kids’ or coworkers’ voices, lawns being mowed,
noisy construction, etc.
SHOT COMPOSITION:
• Record a short “test” video and play it back to
• Make sure the camera is at eye-level (not ensure your voice is loud and clear. You may
angled up or down at you). find that plugging in a pair of headphones with
• Ask your camera operator to put you in the a built-in microphone (such as Apple earbuds)
center of the frame (left to right). There should yields better audio.
be no more than the width of your little finger • Speak clearly and confidently. Don’t yell, but do
between the top of your head and the topmost project as if speaking to a group.
edge of the frame. (NOTE: Your camera operator • Enunciate. Speak clearly and slowly. Presenters
may need to move closer to you in order to tend to speed up when they’re nervous or
achieve the best shot composition. Do not use when they get too comfortable. Check yourself
the zoom feature.) to make sure your pace is measured and your

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 Tips for Recording
Good Video

words are articulated clearly without running WARDROBE:

together.
Consider asking everyone who appears on camera
• Don’t record in a big EMPTY room. Audio will
to wear a VBS t-shirt (Lifeway offers three different
bounce off hard surfaces and produce an echo
styles) or themed costume/attire.
in an empty room. Rooms with furniture/curtains
• Avoid small stripes and checkered patterns,
help absorb ambient sound, in addition to
which can cause a moiré effect on camera.
creating an inviting environment.
• Beware of shadows caused by hats. Push hats
BACKGROUND: further back (or adjust the lighting) so that the
presenter’s face is fully visible on camera.
Ideally there should be lots of room between you
and the background. Sitting with your back right
up against a wall or bookshelf doesn’t give a lot of
separation or depth to your background.
• Create a themed backdrop suitable for VBS.
• Cover the wall behind you with the Supersized
Backdrop or Super Duper Sized Backdrop. Use
other VBS decorations as desired.
• For green screen or virtual backdrops, use the
art files provided in the “Theme Art” folder on
the Decorating Made Easy DVD-ROM. (Also
remember to not wear green clothing or it will
disappear too!)

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 Suggested Bible
Study Activities

A virtual Bible study time will likely be much shorter than an in-person Bible study, as it is harder to keep
kids engaged without the highly interactive components of an in-person VBS. Consider limiting the time to a
maximum of 15 minutes for preschoolers and 20 minutes for kids in Grades 1–6.

A virtual Bible study may include any combination of “Make a Banner” (p. 14)
the following elements: Send home copies of “Jesus’ Name” (pack item 16)
• Bible Story and stickers. Give verbal directions as preschoolers
→ Enlist an engaging storyteller from your own decorate their individual banners. Thank God for Jesus.
church or use the prerecorded Bible story
videos available from Lifeway (available at DAY 2:
[Link]/vbsdirectorsclub). “Play a Game” from Group Time (p. 18)
→ Digital Bible story pictures are located on the Arrange the tray of tools so that it can be seen
Worship Rally CD Set. on camera. Play as directed in the leader guide,
• Bible Story Review pausing to let preschoolers guess which tool is
→ Begin by reviewing the previous day’s Bible missing before revealing the correct answer each
story. time.
→ Review the current Bible story after telling
it to make sure kids grasp the key facts and “Make Some Mud” from Group Time (p. 18)
application. Send home a freezer bag for each child and wide
→ Use the pictures on the Memory Makers to tape along with instructions to parents to fill the
review each day’s Bible story. (Include a set in bag with a small amount of dirt and water, remove
each child’s “VBS at Home Kit.”) all air, and secure the seal well with tape. Lead
• Game preschoolers to move the mud around inside the
• Song bag and draw designs in the mud with their fingers.
• Bible Skills Suggest shapes and letters to write.
• Application Activity
DAY 3:
SUGGESTED PRESCHOOL ACTIVITIES “Sift Sand” (p. 24)
Send home a copy of “Verse Words” (pack item 23)
The following are recommended adaptations to
for each child with the instructions to parents to cut
activities in the Destination Dig Multi-age Preschool
apart the words, crumple each one into a ball, and
Bible Study Leader Guide for virtual Bible studies.
hide them around the room. Lead preschoolers to find
Refer to the Multi-age Preschool Leader Guide for full
all 9 hidden “artifacts” and uncrumple them to reveal
instructions and supplies. Some items will need to be
the words. Parents or older siblings can help put the
sent home in advance in order for kids to participate.
words in order (note the dot key below each word).
DAY 1:
“Paint with Shoes” (p. 27)
“Form Clay Containers” (p. 13)
Suggest kids trace around their shoes onto pieces
Optional: Include a small container of playdough
of paper and decorate the shoe shapes. (Older
for each child in the “VBS at Home Kits.” Guide
preschoolers may also enjoy cutting out their
preschoolers to create using playdough instead of
footprints.) Remind them that Jesus showed love to
air-dry clay. Talk about the use of clay in Bible times.
His friends by washing their feet.
Read the book, “What Is It?” (pack item 19), to the kids.

« 13 »
 Suggested Bible
Study Activities

DAY 4: Guide kids to solve their puzzles, then look up the

“Thank God for Jesus” from Group Time (p. 33) reference in their Bibles. Ask: “Who has 1 John 1:9?
Read the book “The One God Promised” (pack item Who has Romans 6:9?” and so forth. Encourage all
18) to the group. Pray and sing as directed in the kids with that verse to read aloud what is written on
leader guide. their completed puzzle. Continue as directed in the
leader guide.
“Sort Discoveries” (Bonus Activity, p. 35)
Challenge preschoolers to go on a Dig (scavenger DAY 3:
hunt) around their houses. Either provide a list ahead “Lace Race” (p. 26)
of time for parents to collect, or call out common Cut apart the “Shoe Lacing Cards” (pack item 17) and
household items/toys/art supplies one at a time and fill in the blanks on one of the cards with phrases from
allow time for kids to search for them. Sort the items the Bible verse (Matthew 20:28) in scrambled order.
as a group (or individually) using different criteria such Photocopy this lacing card onto heavyweight paper
as by color, size, toys, kitchen items, and so forth. for each child. Punch holes where indicated. Send
home a lacing card and a 24-inch piece of yarn for
DAY 5: each child. Show the “Matthew 20:28 Poster” (pack
“Toss and Move” from Group Time (p. 39) item 16) on the screen and lead the group to read the
Show a “Movement Card” (pack items 30a–f) to the verse aloud. Remind kids that Jesus showed us how
camera (can also mount the cards to a square box or to love others by washing the disciples’ feet. At your
insert in the Giant Inflatable Game Cube and roll as signal, kids should thread the yarn through the holes
on p. 42). Lead kids (and families) to move to music in their cards in correct verse order. Challenge them
as instructed by the card. Pause the music and to beat the clock or to race against each other (if kids
select a new movement periodically. can see each other on the screen).

“Write on Scrolls” (p. 41) DAY 4:

Hold up the verse for older preschoolers (or parents/ “GPR Stomp” (p. 33)
siblings) to copy. Lead kids to roll up their papers Create a page with the phrases of John 11:25
like a scroll and tie (or secure with a rubber band). separated by cut lines and instructions for kids
(or parents) to cut along the lines to create strips.
Photocopy one per child and send home along with
SUGGESTED KIDS ACTIVITIES (GRADES 1–6) a brown, gray, or black balloon. Lead kids to roll up
each strip and place it inside an uninflated balloon,
The following are recommended adaptations to
then inflate and tie off the balloon. Lead the activity
activities in the Destination Dig Multi-age Kids Bible
as directed in the leader guide.
Study Leader Guide for virtual Bible studies. Refer to
the Multi-age Kids Leader Guide for full instructions
DAY 5:
and supplies. Some items will need to be sent home
“Scroll Roll” (p. 40)
in advance in order for kids to participate.
Send home a small pack of sticky notes. Lead kids
(or parents) to write each word of Romans 1:16 on
DAY 1:
a separate sticky note (this can be done as you
“Shovel Skills” (p. 11)
call out one word at a time) and place the words
No adjustments needed.
randomly on the wall. On your signal, lead kids to
“roll like a scroll” across the floor to retrieve one
DAY 2:
sticky note at a time (in verse order). Laugh with and
“Pottery Shard Puzzles (p. 18)
encourage kids as they complete this really fun task!
Send home a paper plate puzzle for each child.
Lead the kids to read the completed verse out loud.

« 14 »
 Suggested
Recreation
Games

Recreation in a virtual VBS can be led by an on-screen leader giving instructions, or game instructions and
supplies can be supplied to families for parents (or older siblings) to lead. Keep in mind that:
• Some children will be playing by themselves without siblings or parents. Games must work even if only
one child is playing.
• Games should require minimal adult guidance and supervision.
• Games should require few supplies and any necessary supplies should be common, household items
that almost everyone will have on hand.
• Children of every age will be playing the games. Make sure the games you choose work as well for a
preschooler as they do for a preteen.

Choose one game per day. Consider the following adaptations to games from the VBS 2021 (Destination Dig)
Recreation Rotation Leader Cards, which work well in a virtual setting:
“Seek and Find” (Rec Card 3) Rolling, Rolling, Rolling (Rec Card 12)
Set up several cones in a line on a table. Number the Encourage kids to blow through straws to move a
cones. Ask viewers to close their eyes (or cover the table tennis ball from one side of the room to the
cones with a sheet) while you hide a beanbag under other. Add adaptations such as: Siblings compete
one of the cones. Invite kids to shout out which cone to see who can get their ball across the room the
they think is covering the beanbag. Ask: “Do you fastest; create a path using pillows or jump ropes to
think the beanbag is under cone 1, cone 2, cone 3 roll the ball through; create an obstacle course using
(and so forth)?” as you point to each cone. Reveal the household objects for the ball to roll through. Remind
correct answer. Play again as time allows. kids that Mary found the stone in front of the tomb
rolled away and saw Jesus alive again!
*Note: This game can also be played together as a
family. Consider including a stack of 5–7 cups and a *Note: Include one table tennis ball and a straw for
small beanbag in each family’s “VBS at Home Kit.” each child in each family’s “VBS at Home Kit.”

Blindfold Drawings “Gather the Artifacts” (Rec Card 8)

Guide kids to grab a pencil, crayon, or marker and Lead kids to look around their house for items an
some paper. Lead kids to close their eyes (or cover archaeologist might use. Give examples such as
their eyes with a bandanna or mask like a blindfold). a hat, pencil, tape measure, string, small shovel,
Call out an item for kids to draw (while “blind”). No bucket, brush, and so forth. Allow 2 minutes for kids
peeking! Allow 30–45 seconds to draw, then let kids to find (and bring back) 5 items to use in the game.
look at their drawings. Continue calling out additional
items for kids to draw. Remind kids of the Bible story Lead them to place the 5 items on one side of the
of Jesus healing the blind man. Comment: “Jesus has room (along the wall), then to stand against the
the power God promised!” opposite wall from the items. Explain that on “Go!”
kids will run across the room, pick up one item, and
“Nature Archaeology Hunt” (Rec Card 5) bring it back to the starting position. (If multiple kids
Create a list of items that kids will likely have at are playing together, they should alternate turns.) On
home (inside the house). Call out the items one at “Go!” count backwards from 5 to 1. Explain that kids
a time. Allow 30–60 seconds for kids to find each should try to be back at the starting line before you
item and bring it back to “show” you. Use a fun video finish counting down. Repeat for all 5 items.
countdown or play music while kids hunt for items.

*Note: This game can also be played together as

a family. Provide a list of nature items. Encourage
families to search for and collect the items from their
own yards, neighborhood green space, or park.
« 15 »
 Suggestions for a
Virtual Crafts
Rotation

Determine how many crafts to provide (e.g. 1 per day, 3 per week, etc.). Choose crafts that will appeal to a
wide age-range of children and can be completed with minimal supervision. Keep in mind that not all children
will have a parent present to help.

Package items needed to make one craft per child. Consider also including basic supplies such as glue
sticks, tape, crayons, or child-sized scissors if needed.

INDIVIDUAL CRAFTS BUNDLE COLORING PAGES

Simplify with the VBS 2021 Kids Crafts Bundle • Coloring pages for each day’s Bible story can
(available for Destination Dig only). This special craft be found in the Preschool Crafts Leader Guide
bundle includes one each of five different crafts (included in the 3s–K Rotation Pack inside the
(one craft per day), pre-sorted and packaged for an Multi-age Starter Kit).
individual child. Includes printed instructions for all • Photocopy and send the coloring pages home
five crafts. for an easy “extra” craft.
• Isaiah Scroll Ornament (ages 6–12)
• Jesus Heals Eyeglass Case (ages 3–12) TIP: Add the text of the Bible story to the back of
• Magnetic Cross Bookmark (ages 6–12) each coloring page so parents can easily share the
• Pottery Shard Frame (ages 3–12) Bible story with their children. (Bible stories can be
• Chariot (ages 3–12) Price: $3.99 copied from the leader guides or the back of the
Item Number: 005834533
ISBN-13: 978-1-0877-5320-1
“Bible Story Pictures” in the leader packs.)

« 16 »
 Music and
Video Usage

U.S. COPYRIGHT LAW COMPLIANCE WHERE CAN I FIND DIGITAL FILES FOR MUSIC
AND VIDEO?
In order to use Lifeway’s VBS music, choreography
or lyric videos, daily drama videos, or missions MUSIC (AUDIO FILES)
videos in your virtual VBS, you will need to follow ☐ Worship Rally CD Set (Disc 1)
these steps: ☐ Music Rotation and Musical CD

1. Music and videos from Lifeway’s VBS ☐ Music for Kids/Preschoolers CD

resources may only be used in the context of a ☐ [Link] (by individual track or by album
livestreamed or prerecorded Worship Rally or
teaching video. (They may not be uploaded
☐ iTunes (by individual track or by album)
to public sites as stand-alone videos.)*
2. Your church must have a current, valid CCLI  RESENTATION FILES (LYRICS, BLANK
P
license and a current, valid CCLI Streaming BACKGROUNDS, ASSETS FOR POWERPOINT® OR
License.** PROPRESENTER®)
3. Report the VBS songs included in your virtual ☐ Worship Rally CD Set (Disc 2)
VBS according to CCLI requirements and ☐ Digital Worship Rally Pack
expectations.**

*Remove each live teaching video within 2 weeks MUSIC/CHOREOGRAPHY VIDEOS

of your streaming date; if possible, post to a ☐ Worship Rally DVD Set (Disc 2)
password-protected site/group. ☐ Digital Worship Rally Pack
☐ Downloadable bundle from [Link]
** If you have questions about CCLI licenses or
reporting, start by talking to the person in charge ☐ 
Preschool videos available in the Multi-age
of the worship ministry of your church. For more Starter Kit with Digital Leader Guides Add-on
information about online reporting, visit CCLI’s and at [Link]
guide HERE: [Link]
DAILY DRAMA VIDEOS
☐ Worship Rally DVD Set (Disc 2)
☐ Digital Worship Rally Pack
☐ Downloadable bundle from [Link]

MISSIONS VIDEOS
☐  ulti-age Starter Kit with Digital Leader Guides
M
Add-on (separate videos for preschool and kids
missions rotations)

« 17 »
 VBS
at Home
Kits

Plan to provide some kind of “VBS at Home Kit” for each family (or child) that registers for your Virtual VBS.
These will include items kids will need in order to participate in VBS activities.

WHICH DELIVERY METHOD WILL YOU USE? ☐ ADD one VBS 2021 Kids Crafts Bundle for each
child in the family. Includes one of each of the
☐ Porch Packs—Items in a bag or box are following craft packs (pre-sorted for 1 per child):
delivered to each home (porch).
• Isaiah Scroll Ornament (ages 6–12)
☐ Church Pick-up—Containers are prepared and • Jesus Heals Eyeglass Case (ages 3–12)
labeled at church. Families can pull through and
• Magnetic Cross Bookmark (ages 6–12)
pick up a “VBS at Home Kit.” Families could also
• Pottery Shard Frame (ages 3–12)
call or text when they arrive in the parking lot for a Price: $3.99
• Chariot (ages 3–12)
runner to bring it to the car. Item Number: 005834533
ISBN-13: 978-1-0877-5320-1
☐ Mail Delivery—Either choose the maximum size
box you plan to ship and work with teams to keep
things within the limitations, or gather everything
for a single mailing address and package
accordingly. (For example, you might choose a flat ADDITIONAL ITEMS TO CONSIDER INCLUDING:
rate shipping box from the post office and work
with your teams to be sure everything fits inside.)
☐ Bible story coloring pages
☐ Any items needed for Bible study or rotations
BUILD READY-MADE KITS FOR DESTINATION ☐  eproducible pages from the Bible Study Leader
R
DIG WITH THE FOLLOWING RESOURCES: Packs
☐ BEGIN WITH the VBS 2021 Family Connection ☐ A “Daily Challenge” for families
Bundle. Includes one of each: ☐ Missions offering container (and information
• VBS 2021 Parent Guide (daily family devotions about the missions cause)
and activities) ☐ A “Parent Letter” with information just for parents
• VBS 2021 Gospel Guide
• VBS 2021 Music for Kids CD
☐ Prepackaged snacks
• VBS 2021 Worship Rally Booklet (printed lyrics, ☐ Flier about your in-person VBS Celebration and
motto, VBS Scripture, and more) other upcoming church activities
• VBS 2021 Folding Magnifier ☐ Fun souvenirs or themed items
• VBS 2021 Dig Site Tool Set
Price: $9.99
Item Number: 005834532 ONLINE OPTIONS FOR FAMILIES:
ISBN-13: 978-1-0877-5319-5
☐ “VBS at Home” on Ministry Grid (available for
Destination Dig only)—Free “family VBS” resources
☐ ADD one VBS 2021 Kids Fun Bundle for each for families to view and complete at home. Simply
child in the family. Includes one of each: send the access link to families each day of VBS.
• Kids Memory Maker (Access to these resources will be emailed to
• Kids Activity Book those who purchase one of the Destination Dig
• Name Tag Starter Kits with Digital Leader Guides Add-on.)
• Kid Wrap ☐ Lifeway VBS App (includes both Concrete
• Destination Dig Backpack & Cranes and Destination Dig)—Families can
Price: $9.49
Item Number: 005826999 download either theme’s app for $2.99. Includes
ISBN-13: 978-1-0877-2006-7
all six VBS songs, written Bible stories, themed
games, and more!

« 18 »
 Family Celebrations
and Follow-up

Consult the VBS Administrative Guide for follow-up strategies and ideas for connecting with families. Be sure
to have a plan in place to follow up with new families (as well as church members who have not yet returned
to church) and work to enfold them in your church’s ongoing ministries.

Consider planning some kind of in-person event on campus before, during, or after your Virtual VBS. This will
be important to helping families feel connected to your church. Ideas include a drive-thru event to pick up
supplies, a parking lot family worship rally or VBS Celebration, or other socially distanced activity for families
to participate in together. VBS Celebration ideas can be found on page 53 of the Administrative Guide.

[Link]/kids

« 19 »