Moving On Up....Promotion Sunday Alternatives
Summer is about to begin. There is something on the mind of almost every fifth grader within your church…..Promotion Sunday.
I clearly remember watching my older sister march off to the youth room every Sunday and Wednesday. As I watched, there was so much excitement in the unknown. Promotion Sunday marks a new season in the life of a student. Believe it or not, that move from elementary to middle school is one that is pressing on the hearts and minds of many of our students.
There are many things that we can do to make the transition easier for nervous students and exciting for eager students. As you are preparing to welcome your newest bunch, consider the following ideas.
Welcome Breakfast
Planning a welcome breakfast is a fantastic idea to get your students engaged. This breakfast can be done a few ways.
One way is to invite parents and students to a getting to know you event. This is a great way to introduce your ministry to the entire family. It is also a great way to get parents involved as volunteers. Students and parents alike will walk away with a better understanding of what they are moving into.
The second way to host a welcome breakfast is to invite rising fifth graders on a Sunday. Table placement must be strategic. Place new students with welcoming older students and separate the table by grade and/or gender. Hosting a breakfast like this is a great way to get students to mingle.
Messy Move Up
We have already mentioned how students will feel one of two ways when facing promotion - nervous or eager. Hosting a “Messy Move Up” night is a fantastic way to break down any nervous walls on day one.
Plan an evening full of fun and messy games. Partner new students with older leaders for the evening. Make sure parents and students know ahead of time that they should bring extra clothes. Some students will be extremely nervous to participate. However, they are bound to leave with smiles on their face.
Surprise Preview Night
There is nothing like being completely surprised on a Wednesday mid-summer. Plan a fun lesson and activity where you can pull students from their elementary class for a “preview night.” Think big….ice cream social….cereal party…bob ross night…If you need ideas check out our resource page.
Random events throughout the summer…..
As you plan out your summer, be sure to include the rising fifth graders in your plans. They don’t need to be invited to every event. However, inviting them to small events (or even to summer camp) can get them engaged in your group before the school year begins.
We want to hear from you! Comment below and let us know where you have found success in and through “Promotion Sunday.”