Do boys sing in your children’s ministry and church? Take a close look next weekend during worship time. You’ll probably find many guys just standing there while everyone else sings.
Over the years, I’ve observed this in most churches. Many boys don’t sing during worship time. I’ve seen this in all sizes and types of churches, from megachurches to smaller, rural churches.
Why don’t boys sing during worship? Let’s look at five reasons and how you can make changes to get everyone involved.
Why Boys Don’t Sing — and How to Change That
1. Few, if any, males are up front leading.
In the elementary years, boys steer clear of anything that appears too “girlish.” When they see only girls leading worship, they put up a wall and refrain from singing. Many children’s ministries work hard to get male role models in key areas like teachers, small-group leaders, mentors, etc. But then they neglect to place males in worship leading. And it shows in the boys who stand with their mouths closed during songs.
Change this by making sure some males lead worship. And if a female leads, make sure some males are front and center with her.
2. You’re doing too many motions.
For years, leaders have used motions to help engage kids in songs. But if you’re not careful, you’ll use too much of a good thing. Actions might become a hindrance. When kids are more focused on trying to keep up with the motions than they are in singing to God, then you need to make changes.
Use simple motions that are easy to follow. And when it comes to motions, less is more. You want to keep the focus on the words more than the motions.
3. You’re singing too many slow, emotional songs.
Unlike girls, boys won’t engage as much in songs filled with slow, emotional lines. Yes, it’s important to sing songs that cause kids to slow down and reflect on God’s love, heart matters, devotion, etc. But it’s also important to sing high-energy, action-based songs if you want more kids to engage.
Here’s an example: Will boys engage with a slow, emotional song like “Your Love Never Fails?” Some will. Will they engage with a high-energy, action song like “Moving Song?” More will.
