Many churches do not include sixth graders in the youth area for several reasons:

Though I know that many groups have separate middle school and high school ministries, there are times when the group meets together as a whole. It has been my experience that sixth graders often feel more out of place when placed with the larger youth group. Much of the Bible study and conversations are far above them.

No matter where sixth graders are in the public schools, they are still learning and thinking on a sixth-grade level. Sixth graders think in concrete terms so they need activities and curriculum that do not use the abstract.

Sixth graders also need more social activities because they are social beings. They also need activities that are appropriate for their age.
I would suggest planning some special activities, just for the sixth graders in your church. This will help them feel that they are special, there will be something planned just for them, and they will interact and relate with friends their own age. Sixth graders like small groups because they are still somewhat insecure.

Studies and statistics have shown that too much involvement by sixth graders in the larger youth group sometimes causes the older youth in the group to drop out because they can not relate to these younger youth.
Most sixth graders do have the physical characteristics of teenagers but do not have the emotional maturity or stability to function in the youth ministry program.

I would suggest that you plan activities just for the sixth graders, appropriate for their age. Plan Bible studies that utilize concrete thinking and much physical activity. Utilize small groups as much as you can.

A good resource for a sixth-grade Sunday School class is "Everything you always wanted to know about being a teenager." It is produced by LifeWay Christian Resources in Nashville, Tenn. Our church has been using this for almost four years and the sixth graders love it. It is good material and prepares the way for these youth to enter adolescence and the youth ministry of the church. Take a look at it and see what you think. Thanks for your question. I hope my feedback is helpful to you. My prayers are with you as you minister with the sixth graders in your church.

Question Two
What homes or help is there in Guilford County, N.C. for parents having real problems with their teens? This is a problem with all authority figures,poor attitudes leading to self-destructive behavior. Please advise.
Esther Dunn
Gibsonville, N.C.

Answer from Criag Bird, director of communications for Baptist Children's Homes of North Carolina.