Tweenagers (9-13s)

So often tweenagers fall between the slats even when churches have a thriving children’s work and an effective youth ministry. Sometimes those aged 9-13 are given scant attention by the children’s department, yet they’re not old enough or independent enough to be included with the youth.

At the Children's Ministry Conference in January 2009 we asked delegates to share their top tips for working with tweenagers. 

The top five tips were:

• Get tweenagers involved – ask them what they want to do – give them responsibility – play to their strengths – give them a reason to be proud.
• Build relationships – allocate time to talk either in group time or in special events/outings.
• Be flexible –change the programme to suit the needs of the moment – don’t be afraid of failure.
• Food - start with food – involve food – cook – eat food!!
• Pray: together as a team – the church for you – with the kids – the kids for each other.

Read all the tips.

We also invited delegates to share success stories.

Souled Out! a weekly meeting for 9-18s for the tweens and teens in the church. Read more...

J-CELL: a mid-week cell for 8-11s. Read more...

Share your tips or story.