We all want to teach students about Jesus more effectively, but let\u2019s be honest \u2014 it\u2019s not always easy. It\u2019s challenging enough to teach adults, but to teach teenagers whose brains are in different stages of development than our own is a challenge most of us were never really trained to do.<\/p>\n
When we think about how to teach teenagers effectively, we probably jump immediately to thinking about our sermons or lessons. The truth is, the process of learning should begin the moment teenagers walk through our doors. <\/strong>If that’s the case, then we need to get strategic about the structure of our environment as a whole \u2014 the room design, props, graphics, snacks, and everything else.<\/p>\n It’s a lot to do and think about, but if this idea still feels a little overwhelming, don’t stress \u2014 we’re going to share how we’ve structured all of this in Grow Students Curriculum<\/a>. But don’t worry if you’ve never used <\/strong>Grow Students<\/strong><\/a> in your ministry before. You can still steal our strategy!<\/strong> Take the ideas you find helpful, ignore the parts that don’t quite fit your context, and combine them with the unique language, vision, and strategy of your church.<\/p>\n Now, let’s talk about our weekly environments strategy for youth ministry! We’ll start with the big picture and then get more specific as we go.<\/p>\n Before you can plan your weekly environment themes for the year, you’ll need to plan what you’re teaching for the year! That’s because your weekly environment should always complement what you’re teaching \u2014 not dictate or compete with it. <\/strong>So if you haven’t already, take a look at this article about planning your annual teaching strategy<\/a>. When you’ve got a plan for your teaching nailed down, come back!<\/p>\n …Are you back now?<\/p>\n Okay, cool! Let’s keep going.<\/p>\n \n\t\t1. PLAN FOR THE YEAR<\/em><\/strong><\/h3>\n