Youth and Children's Work

The District is able to provide many resources for children and teenagers, as well as for those who work with them within circuits and churches both on Sundays and in running midweek and holiday groups. Advice is also available for those who may be thinking of appointing a Youth or other Lay Worker.

RESOURCES AVAILABLE INCLUDE:

CORE - Training material for those who work with children
Glimpses - a spirituality resource for youth workers
Ideas with Children for Remembrance Sunday
Spectrum – On Line training material for those involved in youth work
Spirituality and Spiritual Development in Youth Work
Step by Step 2 - A good practice guide for those involved in youth work
Step by Step 2 Fact Cards
Youth Work – Vibrant Spirituality by Jenny Baker
Youth Work – Transforming Prayer by Jenny Baker
Youth Opportunities Program - Examples

OTHER RESOURCES FOR MIDWEEK JUNIOR CLUBS ETC:

Bible Reading Fellowship | Website
Their Holiday Club material can be adapted for use midweek but they also produce a wide variety of seasonal books that give craft and activity ideas for Christmas and Easter.

Curbs Project | Website
This was written to be used in urban situations but has proved popular in every sort of setting. The resource packs, called Curb Stone Kits, are designed for children aged 5-11 but there is one pilot kit for those 11 – 13.

Roots on the Web | Website
Although this material is designed for use on a Sunday, if your church is not using it for Junior Church then it is ideal for use during the week.

Scripture Union | Website
Scripture Union have just published 'Awesome!' by Sue Clutterham - eight sessions for 5-11 year olds with a DVD than can be purchased to go alongside. Books like 'Faithshapers' offer craft suggestions for teaching simple bible messages. For younger children 'Tiddlywinks' is a must for all leaders – leaders books are accompanied by children’s versions. Older material such as 'Jaffa', and 'Y God?' provides a wealth of material than can be used with a variety of age groups. Holiday Club material such as 'Landlubbers' and 'Xpedition Force' provides a solid base which to build a midweek theme.

Church of England | Website
Information on what the Church of England’s strategy for children’s work is all about.

METHODIST CHILDREN AND YOUTH

There is a specific Methodist Children and Youth website available at www.childrenandyouth.org.uk. The site includes sections for under 5's, 5-11 year olds, 11-18 year olds, and 18-23 year olds, as well as a sections for workers (both paid and voluntary), parents and schools. Sign up to The Well for a regular for advice and guidance, access to resources and training days, invitations to retreat days and conferences, support from other workers in the field, special offers, regular updates and news, a forum of consultation and a collective voice for workers to influence Methodist children’s and youth work.

Useful Link: | Generous

YOUTH PARTICIPATION STRATEGY

The Youth Participation Strategy (YPS) offers an approach to working with young people modelled on Jesus' own life. The Youth Participation Project Manager for the South West is Sharon Rowe - for more information on YPS please contact Sharon on 07791 425501 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. .

USEFUL CONTACTS: