Advice From the Experts – Using Teenagers as Workers, Part 2
The best VBS leaders are learners, and the best learners enjoy sharing with others what they have learned through trial and error. Following are words of advice that have been collected through the years from great leader-learners just like you.
- Restrict cell phone usage during VBS.
- Partner each teen with an adult worker.
- Hold a separate training session for teens on “How to be a Volunteer”.
- Ask teens to sign a contract that clearly states expectations and responsibilities.
- Conduct a half-day “VBS Boot Camp” to teach teens the Scriptures, Bible stories, and music of VBS. Make it fun and high-energy.
- Set the standards high but be sure to lead with grace.
JOIN THE CONVERSATION: What advice do you have concerning utilizing teenagers as VBS workers?
I attend a super small church – attendance averages about 30 people! But there is five or six teenagers there every Sunday, and every summer, our church takes three or four weekends to hold a “Backyards Kids Club” at our local park. We have about 15-20 kids attend at each time. Every teen has a specific area, such as teaching, crafts, snack, etc they are in charge of, and its always worked out wonderfully.
Also, one week a year, we combine with a larger church in our area to conduct VBS with them, and the teens are an integral part of their ministry as well. Many are Go-phers (able to run quick errands), photographers (especially when they are passionate about preserving memories), videographers, and assistant teachers in rooms. I know of one teenage girl specifically who has always been in the preschool room as an assistant teacher, and is this year finally getting to be lead teacher.
Investing in teens encourages them to grow their youth group, and ultimately their church. It provides opportunities for students to be exposed to real ministry, instead of being cast to the side when they are willing to help.