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My wife and I have recently become involved with the Middle School Ministry (grades 6-8). We are looking for any advice that will help us a build a dynamic, inviting, fun ministry.

We would also like to hear from parents of this age group. What are the kinds of "issues" that seem to come up over and over? What do you think are the major needs for the children in this age group?

Looking forward to any discussion we can have...

Our youngest boys, 7&8, have 17 Scriptures memorized. The first one they learned was Gal 6:1 - Children obey your parents... The issue that comes up w/ Jaryd, our 8 year old, is obeying the first time. Recently I yelled at him out of frustration because I told him to do something, went upstairs assuming that he was doing what I had asked, but he was playing. He has ADD and got distracted.

I was open about it w/ the guys in my family group and it came back to me that the problem wasn't w/ him as much as it was w/ me. That it begins w/ the parents - that Jaryd hasn't learned to obey the first time - and that I should apologize to him - and explain to him that I want to change and be a better father. I apologized and it still comes up every now and then but it is quickly addressed in a more patient manner.