Insights into Preteens
Understanding Preteens
Preteens no longer see themselves as children. They want activities and discussions that reflect their unique stage of life. Their frustration with “childish” things often comes across in phrases like, “This is lame,” or “I’m bored.” They do not want to be treated like children.
This stage is often marked by questioning authority, an increasing attraction to worldliness, and a desire for independence. At the same time, they seek group belonging and acceptance, navigating physical and emotional changes that can leave them feeling unsettled, awkward, and self-conscious.
Although every preteen is unique, many share common characteristics:
- A deep need for group acceptance and “group spirit”
- Independence, curiosity, and a willingness to explore
- Strong emotions, competitiveness, and loyalty
- A love for brave, daring heroes
- Humor, enjoying laughter with others but disliking being laughed at
- Spiritual highs and lows, with moments of both confidence and doubt
Girls may giggle, and boys may be boisterous, but both are navigating an important stage in their spiritual and personal development.
Spiritual Needs
The preteen years are crucial for making spiritual decisions that can shape their lives. Apart from their families, the preteen ministry must be their most influential group. Your goal is to help them grow spiritually by teaching key biblical principles and fostering relationships within a spiritual community where they feel loved and accepted.
Preteens need spiritual heroes. Many lessons in the curriculum focus on great men and women of the Bible to help preteens look to these figures as role models instead of worldly heroes. Building strong relationships and a sense of belonging within the church is vital, as is fostering love, gratitude, and respect for family.
Teaching preteens can be challenging because they act like children one moment and young adults the next. Patience, self-control, and consistent prayer for each student by name are essential. Preteens are loyal, inquisitive, and willing to work hard when motivated. By investing your time and heart into them, you’ll reap great rewards.
Curriculum Approach
The preteen curriculum shifts from a center-based approach to a group/classroom approach, with an emphasis on group interaction. This change assumes that a preteen leader will teach part of the curriculum. For many churches, this is the stage where six-month teacher rotations are replaced by set leadership.
Whether your group is large or small, group interaction is key. For large groups, consider dividing into two classes or occasionally splitting by gender to foster relationships and open discussions. For very small groups, even two to four students, it’s important to have a dedicated preteen class. These lessons can be adapted for smaller settings, and you can encourage students to bring friends to help the class grow.
Generation Next Lessons
Preteens need lessons that are fun, exciting, and engaging. Generation Next lessons are designed to bring learning to life. Your preparation is essential—read through the lessons in advance, pray, study the scriptures, and gather all necessary materials. Assign tasks to assistant teachers to involve everyone in the process.
Smooth transitions between activities are critical to keeping preteens engaged. Each lesson builds on the previous one and concludes with a weekly challenge, helping preteens apply what they’ve learned. Encourage and praise them for completing these challenges and memorizing scriptures.