Tyler Bates is a pastor at heart with a lifelong passion for equipping churches and families to nurture children’s faith. Shaped by a strong foundation built through the intentional discipleship of parents and pastors, Tyler experienced firsthand the power of seeds planted early in life, watered by seasons of challenge, and rooted in the unshakable hope of Jesus.

With over 15 years of experience in children’s ministry, Tyler’s journey began with creating dynamic performing arts programs that ignited children’s imaginations and engagement. From playing Larry the Cucumber in VeggieTales Live to leading the Kids Curriculum and Content team at Gateway Church, he has a unique ability to connect with children in ways that are both engaging and transformative. During his time at Gateway, Tyler helped develop ministry tools that served thousands of children across multiple campuses.

In partnership with the King’s University, Tyler developed a certification program that has equipped and trained thousands of kids pastors, giving them the confidence and skills to lead their ministries with purpose and creativity. This program reflects Tyler’s deep belief that empowered leaders are essential to building thriving ministries.

A visionary thinker, Tyler believes in helping children become like Jesus rather than simply behaving like Him. He is passionate about heart transformation over behavior modification, focusing on teaching kids how to recognize and depend on the Holy Spirit to live like Christ. This philosophy has shaped the curriculum he designs, emphasizing deep spiritual formation and fostering authentic encounters with God.

Tyler also sees technology as a powerful tool for ministry. While many parents wrestle with its challenges, he encourages responsible use of technology to better engage the next generation. By equipping pastors and parents with resources that align with this mission, he empowers families to center their lives around Jesus.

As a father to two daughters, Bravery and Brightly, and husband to Connie, Tyler takes a holistic approach to raising children. He believes it truly takes a village to shape a child’s faith and is committed to helping families and churches partner effectively in the sacred work of spiritual formation. Through his company, Amazing Kids, Tyler continues to develop resources and curriculum that serve the global church, planting seeds that will bear fruit for generations to come.