Feeling Burned Out in Children’s Ministry? 3 Passion-Drainers (and How to Fix Them!)

Have you ever hit a season where children’s ministry feels more like a burden than a blessing? 😩
You love the kids. You love teaching about Jesus. But somewhere along the way, your excitement starts to fade, and every Sunday feels heavier than the last.

I’ve been there. In fact, most KidMin leaders I know have faced seasons like this.
The good news? Burnout isn’t the end of your ministry calling — it’s just a sign that something needs to change.

Over the years, I’ve noticed there are 3 common mistakes that quietly drain our passion for ministry. Once you recognize them (and take small steps to fix them), your energy and excitement can return — without quitting or running yourself ragged.

Let’s dive in. 👇

1. Saying “Yes” to Everything (Even the Wrong Things)

Children’s ministry leaders are often known for their servant hearts… but that can backfire when we say “yes” to everything.
Teaching every class, planning every event, filling in when no one else shows up — it doesn’t take long to feel stretched so thin that you can’t give your best to anything.

🔥How to Refuel:

• Take a hard look at your current commitments.

• Circle one thing you can delegate, simplify, or even say “no” to this month.

• Protect your energy for the things God has truly called you to.

Remember: saying “no” doesn’t make you less of a servant — it makes you a healthier leader.

2. Neglecting Your Own Spiritual Growth

It’s easy to think, “I’m always studying Scripture for lessons… so I’m fine spiritually.”
But preparing a Bible lesson isn’t the same as actually feeding your soul.

When we only open our Bibles to prep for others, we run dry spiritually. That emptiness eventually shows up as frustration, discouragement, and a sense that nothing we’re doing is making a difference.

🔥How to Refuel:

• Take (at least) 10 minutes a day just for YOU.

• Read a chapter of Scripture without looking for a teaching point.

• Ask God to speak to your heart personally — not just for your class.

Even a few quiet minutes each day can fill your soul in ways that lesson prep can’t. 🌱

3. Trying to Do Ministry Alone

This is one of the biggest passion-killers I see: leaders trying to do everything alone.
Maybe you don’t have enough volunteers.
Maybe you think it’s easier to just do it yourself than ask for help.

But ministry was never meant to be a solo job. When we try to carry the load by ourselves, burnout is almost guaranteed.

🔥How to Refuel:

• Identify one person you can ask for help this week.

• It could be someone to prep supplies, pray for you, or just check in regularly.

• Building even a small support system can make ministry feel 100x lighter.

Ready to Refuel Your Passion?

If you’ve felt drained or discouraged in your children’s ministry lately, you’re not alone. These 3 passion-drainers sneak up on almost every leader at some point — but you can get your excitement back.

I share tips like these (plus a free 7-Day Passion Refuel Guide COMING SOON!) inside my KidMin Leaders Facebook group.

And GUESS WHAT else?! You can also get access to the "Igniting Your Passion in Children's Ministry" video course — completely FREE!!!! in the Basics level of KidMin Connect. 🙌 This course's special guest is Sis. Vickie Vernon, a well-known child evangelist. You REALLY don't want to miss it! Check it out HERE.

👉 Come join us here: Facebook Group

Let’s get you refreshed, re-energized, and ready to lead the kids God’s called you to — with joy again! 💛