Let’s talk Bible Drill before we talk about starting a program. Bible Drill should be fun and competitive. Children love games, and they love to get into the Bible. I would first look at how much time you have. Do you have at least a full hour in class? I like to allot an hour and a half.
You will want to divide your time into three slots: books, verses, and games. I always choose to focus on either books or verses first. I’ve found kids want to tell the verse they have learned as soon as they come in. I usually put games last; once the games start, they can eat into your study time.
I always choose games related to the verses or books we are working on. A note: all games are Bible games. You’ll find some here, under Bible Drill Games.
Memorizing Bible verses is so much more than “saying the words by heart.” Remember the following guidelines:
1. Children learn differently than adults. Use a variety of teaching methods to help children learn verses. Don’t just rely on a few tried-and-true methods. Challenge children to help create new ways to learn verses.
2. Children absorb new material gradually. Generally speaking, the younger the child, the fewer verses she can be expected to learn and relate to her daily life.
3. Children differ in their abilities. Just as some children learn to talk or walk earlier than others, so some can memorize words and grasp meanings more quickly.
4. Children learn by repetition. The more often a Bible verse is used and recalled, the better a child will remember it and apply it. To keep the child interested in learning, methods should be varied and engaging.
5. Children learn more effectively when they are actively involved in the learning. Singing a verse, acting out the meaning of the verse, and matching verses with present day application help children learn God’s message. As you plan and prepare for each session with the girls and boys you teach, keep in mind that you are helping them learn to treasure God’s Word and to make it part of their lives for eternity.
These guidelines come from the LifeWay Guide.
Bible Drill Competition Guide
Let’s talk about leaders.
There are only two requirements for Bible Drill leaders: love and patience. Preteens are full of energy and are a lot smarter than you think. I have asked everyone from preteens to older adults to act as Bible Drill leaders. It’s been a pleasant experience to see the energy of the younger leaders, and they’re a lot smarter than you might think. Older adults bring a lot of patience and wisdom. Don’t limit yourself to middle-aged adults when it comes to leadership!