jr hi vs. sr hi energy

A few years ago, I wrote a blog for Kurt Johnston and Scott Rubin on their junior high ministry blog addressing the different energy levels for junior high and senior high students. I didn't make the same mistake I discussed in my previous blog, but I revisited it all over again last weekend as our combined groups had a sleep-over in our church building for our Dare2Share weekend. (If you have questions about Dare2Share, I'd love to answer them. I'm a big fan. And I don't even get paid to say that!)

It was a long night. It was a miserable Saturday for most of the junior high students. I can't wait to evaluate our weekend with our team :)


If you're a nerd like me, here are a few articles to help you think through things a little more clearly.

• the science of adolescents and sleep from PBS Science
• the psychology of adolescents and sleep from Psychology Today
• a lighter article on adolescents and sleep from Wall Street Journal
• a super helpful article to share with students and parents from Teen Health

As you plan your next event for junior high students, here are a few tips to keep you out of trouble:

1. Think about your schedule. Sr Hi students can deal with conversations that last until 3AM and still manage a 7AM breakfast. Jr Hi students – not so much. Maybe for one day. Or even two. But if you’re planning to end your camp with a late-night Thursday movie night, don’t plan an early morning devotion on Friday. Before you finalize your event schedule, give serious thought to the stamina level of Jr Hi students. 
2. Think about your meals. I like pizza as much as anyone, and Coco-puffs are awesome for a quick breakfast (and for blowing out of your nostril), but I’m not counting on either for nutritional value. Once again, planning one or two meals for convenience isn’t going to ruin your Jr Hi students, but feeding them a week’s worth of junk food will affect their energy and behavior. When you’re planning your menu, balance cost with nutrition when you’re planning for Jr Hi students.
3. Think about your adults. Let’s be honest, some of our adult staff “get it,” and some don’t. When it comes to spending a few days with tired Jr Hi students, make sure you’re choosing adults who genuinely care for and appreciate the nuances of working with Jr Hi students.

Before you unleash the Darth-Vader-stare-of-death the next time your favorite junior high student starts to melt down, think about your schedule, your meals, and your team. Offer them a little bit extra grace. And ask God to give you a little extra patience.

What do you think?