Decorating Decisions

Begin the countdown sequence. Listen for the rocket launch. Look up at the solar system. Kids should feel surrounded by outer space when they enter your vacation Bible school space. Creating a fun and exciting environment helps children learn better, remember more, and leave with happy memories. So “all systems go” as you fill your VBS space with the sights, sounds, and feel of outer space!

Top Ten Tips for Decorating Decisions

1. Find a team of people who enjoy decorating, and let them loose!
2. Decide which spaces you want to decorate. The spaces where all children meet or travel should receive the most attention: entryways, foyers, hallways, the large assembly room, and, of course, the classrooms.

3. Decorations do not need to be expensive or elaborate. Check thrift stores, garage sales, party supply stores, and Internet sites for space decorations.
4. Kids love color! Check out the Hubble site to see brilliant outer space displays, and translate that into fun and colorful PowerPoint backgrounds or space decorations.
5. Communicate decorating needs through the church bulletin board, newsletter, bulletin insert, or email loop. Ask church members to loan, donate, or make items.

6. Plan a day for volunteers to gather and make decorations. Provide the necessary supplies, including plenty of scissors and craft glue. Serve fun, thematic snacks.
7. Think about outside spaces. Plan a decorated display to greet people as they arrive. The Operation Space outdoor banner (item 10-7-044 or 10-7-045) can be used by itself or dressed up with decorations. Station a costumed astronaut nearby, waving to the children as they arrive.
8. The day before VBS, host a decorating party. Set the rooms up as you want. Remove or add furniture, chairs, toys, etc. Floors may be tarped, especially in the craft room. After rooms are physically set, let the decorating begin.

9. Another way to get rooms decorated is to host a room decorating contest. Build excitement with fun prizes, and see what the VBS crew teams come up with!
10. Keep decorations out of the way in high traffic areas so children will not trip over them. Check on fire code restrictions.