Hello Sparks Families!
This page will address topics like handbook, uniforms, calendars, nightly actives, drop off and pick up, and miscellaneous expectations, among other things.
Parents – you are the most important spiritual influence in your children’s lives. As Awana leaders, we are privileged to come along side and help train your children in the way they should go. Please review this information and the information in your children’s handbooks. We are counting on your help as you invest your time in the spiritual development of your children when you work through their handbooks with them.
WHAT IS SPARKS? Sparks is a three-year club for all students in Kindergarten, 1st grade, and 2nd grade. Our Sparkies are divided into handbook groups by grade. Each group of about 5-7 Sparkies is led by a handbook group leader. This leader will accompany his or her Sparkies throughout the nightly activities. He or she will be the most knowledgeable person with reference to your Sparkie’s progress through the handbooks.
TELL ME ABOUT THE HANDBOOKS: Sparkies will work through three primary handbooks during the three-year progression through this club. Clubbers are provided a schedule to follow along with their handbook in keep them on track throughout the year to earn awards.
Sparks are to memorize their verses during the week at home and come to club with the verse already memorized. We typically do not teach the verses at club.
We encourage parents to establish a memory time routine, perhaps at mealtime or bedtime, or in the car.
SPARKS EARN UNIFORM AWARDS: As the Sparkie progresses through the handbooks, he/she will earn a rank patch and jewel to be added to a wing shaped badge. The handbooks clearly mark the completion of these achievements. Please carefully read the preface and back section of each handbook as it includes valuable information and placement for awards.
THE ONLY CLUB COST: Books and vests are purchased at the Awana store.
HOW TO STAY INFORMED: Email will be the primary means of communication; please be sure to include a current email address on your registration form. If you do not receive any emails during the early part of the club year, please alert the Church Office at 610.524.5338 to be added to the email list.
WHAT DOES A NIGHT AT SPARKS LOOK LIKE? Our Sparks club night is divided into three main 30-minute time slots. For your Sparkie to enjoy the maximum benefit of the club night, drop off will begin at 6:50 pm so that they can promptly begin their activities by 7:00 pm. Drop off is on the second floor in rooms 201-207.
HANDBOOK TIME: During Handbook Time, Sparkies will be expected to sit quietly with their small groups, recite the memorized verses, and work with leaders on an activity. Sparkies will be asked to recite the verses which they have memorized during the week. Parents are highly encouraged to include a post-it note indicating what your Sparkie is prepared to complete each night! Parent (or grandparent) involvement is key to the success of your Sparkie. This is a great opportunity to memorize scripture alongside your children.
GAME TIME: Sparkies will participate in a large group game time. Sparkies should wear appropriate clothing, sneakers, and, comfortable clothes for physical/warm play. Game time is active but not designed to be highly competitive. The focus is on fun and team work. We encourage Sparkies to have good sportsmanship and will do our best to help Sparkies who are highly sensitive to not winning. We encourage all clubbers to participate in Game Time. If there are any limitations or concerns for your Sparkie in relation to Game Time, please address these concerns together with the Sparks Director and your Sparkies Handbook Leader.
LESSON TIME: Lesson Time is a large group teaching time. During this time the Sparkies will sit with their leaders. Sparkies will hear Bible lessons taught by various Sparks leaders.
Thank you for giving us the privilege of nurturing your Sparkies in the love and knowledge of Jesus.