In this episode of the 5 Leadership Questions podcast, Todd Adkins and Dan Iten are joined by Chuck Peters, who serves as the Director of Lifeway Kids and Scott McConnell, who serves as the Executive Director of Lifeway Research. In this episode, they discuss the current trends, challenges, and needs of Generation Z and Generation Alpha in kids’ ministry. The conversation highlights the importance of adapting to the needs of younger generations, creating a culture of belonging, and addressing the need for identity. They also talk about Lifeway's book called “Flip the Script” which is a resource that offers tools for preschool kids and student ministries to effectively reach Gen Z and Alpha. Overall, the episode provides valuable insights for church leaders seeking to connect with and minister to younger generations.

BEST QUOTES

"We can't do what we've always done and expect a different outcome." – Chuck Peters

"The biggest disconnect is assuming that kids think how we do." – Chuck Peters

"The most connected generation in history through technology is simultaneously the loneliest and most isolated generation ever." – Scott McConnell

"We have an epidemic of loneliness, of isolation, of separation. In real life, kids don't have real relationships." – Scott McConnell

"We need to create a culture of belonging and speak to the need for identity among younger generations." – Chuck Peters

"Once they find a place to belong, it heavily influences their identity." – Chuck Peters

"We as the church have to adapt, based on the research, to use different approaches to connect with kids in ways that are actually meaningful." – Scott McConnell

RECOMMENDED RESOURCES

Flip the Script: Disrupting Tradition for the Sake of the Next Generation by Chuck Peters, Jana Magruder, and Stephanie Salvatore

Hyfi: A Digital Curriculum to Reach the Next Generation of Kids and Students