When do we begin to teach stewardship? The answer, of course, is with our children. This emphasis upon teaching our children about stewardship can be one of the most important components of a congregation's stewardship ministry. All too often, however, this aspect of stewardship education can be overlooked. Let me underscore the importance of involving our children in stewardship ministry.

As we teach our children about stewardship, a foundation begins to form upon which they can build throughout all of life. Three basic principles provide this foundation.

First, all of us are gifted by God. Second, stewardship is our joyful and thankful response to what God has done for us in Christ. Third, a lifestyle of stewardship is a life long process. Of course, these are basic principles for both children and adults in nurturing a sense of stewardship.

Let me suggest some objectives that you might consider in emphasizing stewardship education for children:

1.Promote in the congregation a sense of stewardship that includes both children and adults.

2.Involve children and youth in the stewardship ministry of the congregation.

3.Help children and youth understand WHY we give.

4.Help children and youth understand HOW we give, that stewardship is a lifestyle.

5.Be intentional in stewardship ministry by setting aside times to talk with children and youth about stewardship. An example of settings might include Sunday School, the children's sermon or children's time during worship, intergenerational stewardship events, confirmation programs, and talk times in a youth program.

There are many good resources available through Augsburg-Fortress including teacher training materials, the Peli-Can series, and children's stewardship books. One source that I have found helpful is a book entitled, Stories For Sharing: Exploring Stewardship with Children by Susan A. Patterson-Sumwalt. This book is available through Discipleship Resources. Their phone number is 800-685-4370.

Be creative and have fun in your stewardship education. Helping children understand lifestyle of stewardship is an essential aspect of their faith journey.