One ongoing challenge for youth workers is bridging the gap between their world and the world of the teenagers they serve. I was pointed to a useful resource for addressing this problem as I was working on our newest training tool, an orientation guide for youth pastors. I interviewed James Grout, a youth pastor with a lot of great insights, and he told me about The Center for Parent/Youth Understanding.
The organization was started by author Walt Mueller, and its website includes regular updates on teen culture trends, written for the benefit of parents, teachers, and youth workers. Grout calls it "an essential tool for youth pastors."
So youth workers, tell us, how do you try to keep up with what's being thrown at your teens (besides stalking them on Facebook)? Is there someone else out there doing what Mueller is doing?
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This is some great information here and an important topic. I think it is important to stay up-to-date with todays youth because thats one of the easiest ways to connect with them. One way to keep up is to simply stay connected with current trends. To do that, follow whats popular, that means check out new movies, be familiar with new technologies and internet sites, be comfortable with change. You don't need to accept the current blockbuster, but if you are familiar with it, you can tell kids whats right, and wrong with it.
Don't become out of touch with society, Just try to stay connected with current trends and news.
Posted by: Peter V | June 25, 2009 2:16 AM