It’s not saying, “You shouldn’t feel sad about that. What do you care what they think?” That’s because, for preteens, other kids’ esteem is of key importance. When we tell kids how they should or shouldn’t feel, we devalue their emotions and experiences.
Instead, acknowledge how a preteen feels by helping them find words for their emotions. “What I hear you say is that you feel frustrated and betrayed by your friends. I’m sorry you’re going through this, and I’m hear if you want to talk.”
Ask preteens how you can help, even if it’s just to listen. When preteens want to know why God allows others to do mean things, grapple with the question together. When they need to express the depth of their pain, let them.
Guide preteens to God in their dark and lonely moments. Amid your Sunday school discussion topics, remind kids that God is for them. And you are for them, too. Demonstrate that they can talk to you and you will always listen. You’ll be their friend and help them through difficult situations.
Have Fearless Conversations
Your time with preteens today will have echoes into their future. When you take the time and energy to reach their hearts and minds, you’ll not only deepen your relationship with them, you’ll help position their hearts closer to God.
This article about fearless conversations and Sunday school discussion topics originally appeared here.
