Years ago, I was a volunteer leader at this youth camp. In the training time they told us, “Don’t worry too much about the 7th and 8th graders. They really don’t have souls yet.” Of course, they meant it in jest, but some may wonder if that is not the truth. Middle schoolers can be loud, obnoxious, annoying, and gross. But, they are forming who they are and what you do in their lives could have eternal impact. As you work with the Middle Schoolers in your group, remember . . .

1. They are just beginning to THINK ABSTRACTLY. They will struggle with deeper thoughts and will usually avoid conversations that make them feel stupid. Middle schoolers love experiential learning because it involves discovering an idea before they can give it words. Don’t just tell your middle schoolers a truth; find a way for them to experience it.
2. SEXUAL FEELINGS are new to middle schoolers . . . and uncomfortable. Most of us laugh at the things that make us uncomfortable, so be gentle when your middle schoolers snicker at anything with a remote sexual connotation. Reframe sexuality as a gift from God so special it should only be shared with one person–a spouse.
3. Middle schoolers are trying to discover WHO THEY ARE. They are making decisions that will  determine what kind of adult they will become. They tend to “try on hats,” experimenting with what it feels like to be a different kind of person. Don’t stress too much when they are trying out new styles or new attitudes. However, help them to understand that solid identity is based on Christ.

Middle schoolers are great. They love to laugh. They can be incredibly loyal (to everyone but their parents). And they travel in herds . . . which makes outreach a lot easier. Use the years of early adolescence to point them to a real, vital relationship with Jesus Christ. Capture their hearts, their imagination. Challenge them to do great things . . . not in video games, but to advance the kingdom of God. And remember, we all went through those crazy middle school years. They will grow out of them as surely as we did.