Summer is practically here and that means ministries change focus to prepare for youth summer programs. With time ticking away it’s important to not get overwhelmed and to make sure that we’ve done all we can do to make youth programs as enjoyable as possible. So with that here are some last minute tips to make your program as success.
1. Relax.
Nothing gets in the way of our success more than us. We try to manage and over-manage, stress and over stress, making us feel like the weight of the worlds is on our shoulders. In doing so we not only create unhealthy stress for ourselves and others, we rob ourselves of the joy of experiencing God’s power working in and through us. So relax and remind yourself that all things are done through Him and should be done for Him.
2. Stay organized.
The best way to fix a problem is to prevent one from happening. Keep a list of everything you need, where you can find it and how long you’ll need it for. This can be done easily with management software and premium software allows multiple people to access this information making the entire program well managed.
3.Think of additional materials.
Sometimes activities that should have taken 20 minutes take 15 or even take 30 depending on group discussion. Think of a few simple yet interesting activities for each age group that can be easily added or taken away depending on time. Having a few extra activities on the shelf will help make the program more fun and reduce the stress of the volunteers running them.
4. Plan for emergencies.
Collect all of the necessary information for each person under your care: allergy information, emergency contacts, prescription medicine…etc. Think of any precautions you’ll need to take when going outdoors, including bug spray, sun block and first-aid kits. Preparing ahead of times means they’ll be less trouble should you encounter any problems.
5. Hold a prep meeting before you start.
Once all the big things have been accounted for hold a meeting to go over the details and remind all of the staff what the church’s program is all about. This will help to set the tone before the program begins. And prep meetings can help bring up last minute hiccups that need to be taken care of.
Following the tips above will not only make the time leading up your program more manageable, it will make it more enjoyable. And if something unexpected does come up just remember to breathe.
Your RDS Advantage church management system Support Staff