DON'T...	DO...
define ministry as a "youth group"	develop comprehensive ministry with lots of groupings
think one size fits all	offer variety of activities/programs (even at same time)
go it alone	form a team of ministers throughout the parish
try to find perfect time & day	provide flexibility in schedule with options (offer the same program different times - this allows more youth and leaders to be involved)
think everything open to everyone	Set limits for participation based on resources & leaders
plan for youth	involve youth in planning
base on large minimum number	offer specialized program for small interest groups
only organized gathered activities	offer non-gathered strategies (i.e. website / email / greeting cards / attend youth events)
view parents as problems	work with parents as partners: minister to and with them
publish a calendar without having committed leaders	secure committed leaders first: do background checks when necessary
think "any body" is better than nobody	assure leaders understand and enjoy the nature of young adolescents
expect young adolescents to be what you want	embrace them for who and what they are as gifted and growing adolescents