Families that play together…
Last year, I (Steve) had the opportunity to speak at retreat for families. (I am a full time youth pastor in addition to doing the 9 Square in the Air thing.) It was a fantastic weekend, and we took a 9 Square game set along with us. The game was set up in the gym, and families had a great time playing 9 Square in the Air together during the weekend.
One aspect that was so interesting about families playing the game is that it gave parents and kids a chance to play and laugh together. In youth ministry, I see all-to0-often the tension, anger and frustration that can exist in the parent / teen relationship. Now, I’m not saying that 9 Square in the Air is the solution to that, but it was remarkable how kids and parents had a great time laughing together, having fun, and even talking smack to each other!
Even the younger kids got involved and had a great time playing. My own daughters had fun “ganging up†and playing with several younger kids in a square together. The game really does allow for people of all ages and skill levels to play together and have a great time!
As group leaders, whether you work at a church, campground, school, YMCA, etc.-I would encourage you to look for opportunities to get teens and their parents interacting in positive ways. Â I’ve found that game nights can be great for that! Â Whether it’s parents vs. teens 9 Square in the Air tournament (Click here to see how to run a tournament), a father/son camping trip, a Daddy/daughter date night, or a Mother / Daughter event, do something! Â As group leaders, we have the unique ability to create environments for parents and teens to interact….and here’s a secret. Â When we present the event to teens, and make it cool and exciting, it makes it much easier to get both teens and parents involved and excited. Â Parents will appreciate you giving them the platform to have positive interactions with their sons and daughters!
