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Teen Youth Games

Teens can be one of the most difficult age groups to engage, especially in a typically formal atmosphere like a church. However, with the right planning and some teen-centered games, you can really get a discussion going. Games not only give teens an energetic outlet, they can help them understand the lessons you're about to present. They also show teens that church doesn't have to be serious and boring; it can be fun and educational, too.

Pass Along
- Pass Along teaches teens how teamwork can get things done faster. It also demonstrates the importance of communication. You need several objects like small bean bags, plush animals, frisbees or soft foam baseball bats. The teens stand in a circle with a person holding each object. Each teen with an object must shout another teen's name and toss him that object. If the receiving teen has an object, she must call a name and toss her object as well. Teens must communicate loudly, clearly and quickly to play this game. Afterward, you can discuss how these lessons apply to real life and evangelism.
Gordian Hand Knot
- In this human knot game, teens stand in a circle and stick both hands into the center. Each teen randomly grabs one hand from two different people. The result should be a giant tangle of arms. The teens must work together to untangle themselves and return to their circle formation. They can't let go of each other and they only have about 10 minutes to try and untangle themselves. Try this game with a silence rule and alternately, with talking. Discuss which was easier and why. Teens may also discuss how the human knot was a symbol for real-life interactions.
Who's the Angel?
- The Bible contains plenty of stories about angels disguising themselves as humans to deliver messages or simply to interact with people. These angels often looked like ordinary or very poor people, leading to the adage that when you help someone in need, you may be entertaining angels. For this game, put a bunch of folded pieces of paper in a hat. Each paper should have a name and a brief character description, including whether or not that person is an angel. Teens then must go to a costume box and dress themselves as much like their character as possible. They must then talk to each other and try to figure out who is and isn't an angel. Identities can include actors, athletes, soup kitchen workers, homeless people and middle-aged mothers. Afterward, teens may discuss how surprised they were that some people were angels and others weren't. Then discuss how treating those who aren't angels as if they are can help spread goodwill and evangelism.

Party Games