6. Have dinner with their family
This is a wonderful idea — if you can secure an invite from the family to come over for dinner. You get to see what life is like for the student (at home) and get to build into their parents too!
7. Attend their extra-curricular activities (sports, dance, etc.)
Students love when you support their interests. This is a great way to show you care… and let’s face it, sometimes you might be filling in the gap for their parent by sitting on the sidelines when the parent can’t make it to cheer on their child!
8. Send them text messages throughout the week (between Sundays\Wednesdays) to check-in and encourage them
Students really need to hear from caring adults throughout the week. Sending them a text or tweet during the week is a great way to show you are interested in them. Otherwise, your communication with them sounds like just a plea to get them to your event.
9. Work on a service project together
Working a project together really helps create community within your group and will help you connect with students individually too!
10. Attend student events\programs you might not otherwise attend
Don’t be content to limit your interaction with students to the one or two events or programs you are normally a part of. Why not surprise them by showing up to other youth ministry events to participate?
What other great tips & ideas would you add to this list?
