ReStart in Youth Ministry

if you are serious about reaching preteens, you need to be serious about providing them with a

picture from LifeWay preteen

space where they feel comfortable. i've seen preteen ministries setup in small rooms, large rooms, medium room and even hallways. they key to opening the door of connection into the church for any preteen ministry is relationships, but don't under estimate the power of decor.

preteens love bright funky colours along with the soothing glow of hd tv's with great sound and video game systems. others love loud physical activity like mini sticks, ping-pong or air hockey. you also need a quieter place to hang out and chat, read or drink a cup of tea.

if i was to start a preteen ministry from scratch, i would set aside a portion of my budget on creating a new, exciting, and inviting spot for preteens.

since budgets are becoming tighter and tighter these days and we being asked to to more with less, here are some creative ways to design and build a preteen room on a tight budget.

• find the largest unused space in your church and ask your leadership for it. a larger space is better for a preteen room so you can have an active and quiet area.
• paint your ceiling tiles or hang old camp t-shirts if you have rafters.
• add unique lighting and furniture ideas throughout the room. ikea is a great option if you have one near you. if not, try a second hand thrift store and go retro in your design.
• ask for old game systems and computers so you can have a technology section.
• scapbook paper and picture design is very powerful and allows preteens to add to the decor of their room.
• collect board games and music for them to pick and choose for their ambience. itunes lets attenders choose their music from a play list if you have wifi access for your kids.
• buy a flat screen tv and show music videos on it or home made ministry event videos.

@jeffsmyth