Vacation Bible school is more than just five unforgettable days—it’s a ministry launchpad. It’s where kids first meet Jesus, where families take meaningful steps into faith, and where lasting connections begin. But what happens after the last game is played and the final song is sung? For many churches, the excitement of VBS fades too fast.
Follow-up after VBS isn’t just about boosting Sunday attendance; it’s about continuing the ministry you started. It’s how you show kids and families they matter, build lasting relationships, and invite them into something deeper. Whether it’s a simple note, a shared photo, or an invitation to something new like True North Christmas, intentional follow-up can turn five days of VBS into lasting impact. Here’s how:
1. Personalize the Connection
Today’s families and kids are craving authentic community. A generic postcard or mass email won’t cut it. Personal follow-up goes a long way, especially when it comes from someone their child already knows.
Try these ideas:
- Have Crew Leaders write personalized notes to each child in their Crews.
- If you captured kids’ or Crew photos at your VBS, use the Follow-Up Foto Frames® to invite kids and families back for Sunday worship or to your next family event.
- Send kids who registered but didn’t attend a “We Missed You!” kit. Fill True North Paper Boxes with some leftover VBS goodies (like Buddies, stickers, and Watch for God Wristbands). Include a personal note to remind them they’re still part of your church family.
- Deliver True North music streaming cards to reinforce spiritual habits at home.
- Make your follow-up extra memorable by including small, meaningful VBS keepsakes. True North items like Foto Frames, water bottles, backpacks, plush huskies, VBS Paper Boxes, sticker sheets, and Watch for God Wristbands are perfect for reinforcing what kids experienced during the week.Even a simple gift with a handwritten tag—like “We’re so glad you came!”—can help a child feel remembered and eager to return.
2. Reignite the Energy With an End-of-Summer or Fall Family Event
Don’t let the excitement stop when VBS does. Invite families back with an event that echoes the fun, welcoming spirit of your VBS.
Here are a few ideas:
- Back-to-Church Bash: Host a simple outdoor celebration with games, music, snacks, and an invitation to fall programs.
- Children’s Rally Night: Offer a free meal, ministry info booths, and a chance to meet Sunday school teachers.
- True North Christmas (more on that below): Repurpose decorations and curriculum to create a magical holiday experience.
Each event gives you another opportunity to build relationships and introduce families to your church’s regular rhythm.
You can also incorporate VBS follow-up touches using items like Foto Frames, water bottles, backpacks, plush toys, little boxes, sticker sheets, or Watch for God Wristbands. These familiar items create a bridge between VBS memories and future events.
3. Celebrate Volunteers—and Keep Them Engaged
Your VBS team made ministry happen—don’t forget to thank them personally. Whether it’s a handwritten card, a slideshow recap, or a casual pool party, your gratitude helps volunteers feel valued and eager to serve again.
👉 Need inspiration? Check out: How to Thank Your True North VBS Volunteers
When people feel appreciated, they’re more likely to serve again next year.
4. Extend the True North Adventure Into the Holidays
If you used Group’s True North VBS, there’s a powerful way to keep kids and families engaged even into the Christmas season. Introducing…
🎄 True North Christmas
This one-of-a-kind holiday event uses your existing VBS decorations and theme to retell the Christmas story in a fun, immersive way. Kids become the storytellers. Families worship together. And your church becomes the place they come back to for more than just summer fun.
It’s easy to implement—especially if you saved decorations like wall hangings, posters, and Bible Memory Buddy visuals. You can even repurpose your VBS music.
Planning ahead? Check out this article on what to save for True North Christmas.
Want Next Year’s Follow-Up to Feel Even Easier?
Begin with the end in mind during your planning phase.
The most effective follow-up strategies don’t begin after VBS—they start long before. When you plan your VBS with the goal of retention, your efforts after the final day become a natural next step rather than an afterthought.
📌 Pro Tip: Assign a Follow-Up Leader as part of your VBS team from the beginning. Assign a Follow-Up Leader as part of your VBS team from the beginning. While others focus on VBS week roles, this person plans for what comes next.
Follow-up doesn’t have to be fancy—it just has to be thoughtful. When you take intentional steps to reconnect with kids and families after VBS, you turn five days of ministry into lasting impact. Whether it’s a note, a meal, or a Christmas event, each touchpoint says: You belong here. You matter. And we’re excited to see you again.
You’re not just planning VBS; you’re building the bridge between outreach and lifelong faith.
➡️ Want more ideas for connecting your ministry with families?
Check out Team Family!
♻️ Have excess VBS supplies? Check out this article to Make the Most of Your True North Leftovers.
