This is a critical phase full of learning experiences. Celebrate their positive experiences and support them through the bad ones. Teach them how to think critically about what they hear. They want to experience for themselves the things they’ve always been told to see if they’re true. Is the thing they were told was bad actually that bad? Is the thing they were told was good actually good?
They’re stepping into new things: They are more independent than ever, and that feels new to everyone. Boundaries are healthy here. But your tenth grader is not thinking ahead ten years from now like you are. Sticking with the here-and-now benefits and consequences during the boundary conversation might help while also communicating that you love them and want them to be safe.
They're experiencing more life: Those life-shattering bad things you warn them about daily? They're happening to some of the people your student knows. They might also start to learn that the standards you hold for them don’t line up with the stories they've heard about you when you were their age. Expect them to challenge you on all of it. It will be helpful to be open, honest, and clear about where you are coming from so that they can better understand your heart.
The Three Most Important Things to Remember.
If you would like help or ideas on how to do any of these things, we are always here to help!
Resources We Recommend.
Books.
If you’re unable to afford any of these resources, please let us know—we’d love to help!
Podcasts/Websites.
I’m the NextGen Pastor at Christ Community. I'm thrilled to partner with you in guiding and discipling your student. They are the leaders of today, anointed with compassion, inclusion, and a passion for change. Student ministry involves the entire family, so if I can support you or if you'd like to grab a coffee, please reach out!
CCStudents is for eighth through twelfth graders and meets every Wednesday from 6-8 pm at Zoe's Cafe in downtown Greeley.




















