How to Engage Parents in Urban Youth Ministry
By Will Cumby, Fuel Network National Director
Championships are won in the off-season. There’s no true off-season in youth ministry, but our schedule often aligns with the school year. Summer is our time to reset and plan for the upcoming year. I encourage you to use this time to prepare your youth programs thoroughly and think about how you engage with parents.
Engaging parents is crucial for the success of any youth ministry. By fostering a strong
partnership between the ministry and parents, you can create an environment that supports and nurtures the spiritual growth of young people. When the Bible speaks to training up a child, the sole responsibility does not rest on the youth pastor. Their first place of learning should be at home, and you are the extension of their understanding. And even when the house is not where your students first learn about Christ, you can be the one that starts the conversation that can continue at home.
One key strategy is to make it convenient for parents to be involved. Offer programs and events at times that work with busy family schedules. Consider adding a parent session to your next youth event. In a side room, have a round table talk on topics that concern parents, like teen dating, mental health, or understanding social media. Provide resources and communication channels that make it easy for parents to stay informed and engaged. Constantly and consistently leave the door open for feedback by providing multiple opportunities for parents to share their opinions. Expectation without communication is chaos. Your next best volunteer or fresh idea could be a comment card away!
Cultivating mutual understanding is a vital component of a successful youth ministry. Take the time to listen to parents’ concerns and perspectives. Work to build trust by demonstrating your commitment to supporting the youth and their families. When parents feel heard and valued, they are more likely to participate. This mutual understanding can lead to stronger relationships and a more effective ministry.
Ultimately, creating a youth ministry that effectively engages parents requires concerted effort. But the rewards are not just immense, they’re transformative – stronger families, deeper faith journeys, and a vibrant community that helps young people not just survive, but thrive. With the right approach, you can unlock the full potential of this critical partnership and create a future filled with hope and excitement.
To learn more about parental engagement and practical steps, check out Dr. Willie Kelley and the research he has done on building the parent portal.
Click Here – Dr. Willie F. Kelley II
We win with community!
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