Rowdy, restless, silly, out of control, moody, vulgar, disrespectful, unpredictable -- this may be the junior high stereotype, writes youth ministry expert Wayne Rice. But early adolescents' enthusiasm, loyalty, energy, candidness, and willingness to learn -- these more than compensate for the well-publicized hazards of working with middle schoolers. In this edition of Junior High Ministry -- updated and expanded to reflect the realities of middle school ministry at the turn of the century -- the cofounder of Youth Specialties takes a comprehensive look at the early adolescent experience: - A case for junior high ministry -- and what it takes to work effectively with junior highers. - New material of turn-of-the-century trends in the youth culture -- and on programming for kids living in this culture. - A chapter each on the five pivotal areas of development -- physical, social, intellectual, psycho-emotional, and faith -- among junior highers. - Altogether new chapters on parental involvement and mentoring in the context of junior high ministry . . . all topped off with 50 creative and practical ideas -- fun and games, Bible study openers, mixers, entire events -- that are tailored for junior highers in Sunday school, the youth room, or your living room. Whether you're training for youth work or a trainer of youth workers, Junior High Ministry will keep finding its dog-eared way to the top of your most used resources.
Wayne Rice writes and speaks about teenagers to parents, youth workers and anyone else who will listen. A veteran youth worker, he is the co-founder of Youth Specialties, an organization providing resources and training for youth workers since 1968. Wayne has written more than 20 books for youth workers, parents and teens. For more than twenty years, Wayne has presented his "Understanding Your Teenager" seminar to thousands of parents all over the world. He currently serves as pastor at College Avenue Baptist Church in San Diego, California. Wayne is married to Marci and they have three children and (so far) three grandchildren. Wayne also plays the banjo in a bluegrass band and has a weekly radio program featuring bluegrass music.
